The first phase of work to improve Colwyn’s coastal defences starts on site this week.
Conwy County Borough Council has received approval of the final piece of funding needed to undertake Phase 1a of the coastal defence scheme; in total £2.7 million from the Welsh Assembly Government and £2.3 million from European Regional Development Fund.
The coastal defence scheme as a whole is intended to protect over 200 properties and the region’s essential infrastructure along the coast, specifically the A55 and railway line.
Phase 1a will deal with the foreshore opposite the northern entrance to Eirias Park. It will involve constructing a rock groyne, rock revetment and repairs to the existing defence structures.
Phase 1a will also see the first part of the promenade improvements taking place, including extending the current area to form a platform for the Watersports Hotspot, currently being designed. Funding for this element of the work comes from a Welsh Assembly Government regeneration grant with match funding from the European Regional Development Fund.
Cllr Mike Priestley, Cabinet Member for Environment, Conwy County Borough Council said:
“We believe this coastal defence work is essential for Colwyn Bay’s future. Without this work the railway line, railway station and the A55 are particularly at risk given their location running parallel to the waterfront for a significant distance.”
“I’d like to thank the Council’s Environment Team for all their hard work in securing this funding. I’m delighted for the people of Colwyn Bay, that the sea defences and surrounding environment is being improved.”
The coastal defence work and Waterfront project are part of the Bay Life+ Programme.
