Schemes underway to shore up coastal defences

Two Northumberland coastal protection projects are progressing to help safeguard communities, transport links and public infrastructure from the growing threat of coastal erosion.

Northumberland County Council has begun work on the Cresswell Coastal Road Slope Management Scheme, with construction expected to take around eight weeks.

The project will stabilise the slope beside the coastal road near Golden Sands Holiday Park, helping to protect a key route while longer-term solutions for the area are developed.

Works include the installation of new rock armour along the shoreline, improvements to roadside drainage and slope stabilisation measures designed to reduce further erosion. 

Most activity will take place from the beach to minimise disruption, although temporary traffic management will remain in place throughout the programme.

Lynemouth county councillor Liz Dunn, whose ward includes Creswell, said: “This is a very popular area for both local residents and visitors, with a well-established caravan park just yards from the sea. 

“It’s vital we carry out these works to protect the road over the coming weeks, and I know teams will be doing all they can to keep disruption to a minimum.” 

Meanwhile, work is continuing on schedule at Beadnell, where a major coastal protection scheme launched in April, is set to run throughout the summer.

The project focuses on strengthening and repairing the existing coastal defence wall along Harbour Road, which protects part of the village and the only access route to the beach.

The scheme includes repairs to around 195 metres of seawall and the reconstruction of 125 metres of parapet wall. 

Current work is centred on rebuilding sections of the parapet before repairs move to the seaward face, where areas affected by erosion and wave damage will be strengthened.

Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, ward member for Bamburgh and Beadnell, added: “These works are crucial to protecting Harbour Road and we need to get this done before the next round of winter weather hits us. 

“Once complete they will safeguard this beautiful stretch of our coast for many years to come.” 

Councillor John Riddle, cabinet member for rural and environment at Northumberland County Council, added: “Northumberland is world famous for its spectacular coastline, and it’s crucial we play our part in protecting the communities that live alongside it. 

“Both these schemes are aimed at ensuring the villages and the roads around them are safe for future generations of residents and visitors. 

“The works have been carefully planned to minimise impacts on the surrounding coastal environment and protected habitats, with measures in place throughout construction to protect the shoreline, wildlife and public access.

“We know this is a busy time of year and we want to thank residents, businesses and visitors for their continued patience while the works are taking place.” 

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