Planned works are due to begin this month at South Walney to help protect the former landfill site from the effects of erosion.
The Council will be carrying out work on the site to help strengthen the long-term stability of the coastline while safeguarding the surrounding environment.
The works will involve reshaping the edge of the landfill that faces the sea to create a gentler slope, which will help reduce erosion and slippage. The new slope will then be protected with several layers including a protective liner, smaller rocks, and large rocks on the outside. Coir matting will be also placed on top to promote vegetation growth.
Where possible, existing materials will be reused as part of the works. The current rock armour revetment at the toe of the embankment will be retained and stones will be incorporated into the new structure, reducing waste and the need for additional material. In total, around 250 metres of improved erosion revetment will be constructed, designed to provide protection against one in 100-year seawater overtopping events.
The scheme has been carefully designed to extend inland in order to reinforce the existing landfill containment area, rather than expanding further onto the foreshore. This approach helps to avoid disruption to natural coastal processes, including sediment movement and longshore drift along the shoreline.
Councillor John Murray, Cabinet Member for Climate, Biodiversity and Regulatory Services, said:
“These works are an important step in protecting the South Walney coastline and the former landfill site from increasing pressures associated with coastal erosion and more frequent extreme weather linked to climate change. By strengthening the existing defences and working with natural processes, we can help the area adapt to these long-term challenges while protecting the surrounding environment.”
Construction will be carried out in phases to minimise disruption to the beach, nearby fields and surrounding habitats. Work is expected to be completed by August.
Councillor Andrew Jarvis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance, added:
“We understand how important this stretch of coastline is to local people and for wildlife. This scheme has been designed to provide long-term protection while respecting the natural coastal environment. By reusing materials where possible and carefully phasing construction, it will deliver a practical solution that minimises disruption during the works and provides lasting resilience for the local community.”