The final part of the Cleveleys scheme where it meets the boundary at Blackpool is due to be completed in early 2010, at a cost of a further £6 million. This phase started in March 2008 with the local manufacture of the pre-cast concrete elements, and stabilisation of the poor ground conditions. In March 2009 construction began on site, continuing the creation of a wide, split level promenade, with a stepped revetment down to the beach and new sea wall to the rear. As on the northern section, there will be raised planting at the rear of the sea wall, abutting the road. The main funding pot only covers the work of the sea defences, and as with the main scheme, additional funding is being sought to cover the cost of lighting, street furniture, and land mark features.
According to the Council’s Coast Defence Strategy, this final section of work wasn’t due to be carried out until 2012. It was demonstrated to the Environment Agency (who oversee funding) that by continuing the work, significant cost savings could be made to the value of £1.5 million, so the scheme was brought forward so that savings could be made. The funding has primarily come from Defra, with contributions from the Environment Agency, European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and Wyre Borough Council.
To mark the grounding of the Riverdance Ferry in February 2008, a piece of public art is to be created which will include the anchor which was donated by the demolition contractor. This will be sited at the southern end of the promenade at the nearest point to where the ferry lay beached.
The promenade was intended to be not just part of the built environment, but an integral part of life in Cleveleys, which was used and enjoyed by visiting and local communities alike. To develop the use of the ‘Peoples Promenade’, Cleveleys Seafront Partnership was born – which is a voluntary group of people who would have a say in how the area is used, liaise with the Council regarding its day to day purpose, and organise a range of events to draw people to the seafront and Cleveleys as a whole.
