Rossall Coastal Defence Scheme
Location: Fylde Coastline, Lancashire
Product used: Bespoke Wildflower Turf®
Project Size: 28,000m²
Project Overview
Following a 4-year construction period, the Rossall Coastal Defence Scheme was successfully completed in 2018. This ambitious £63 million project aimed to safeguard 7,500 properties from the threat of flooding along the vulnerable coastline. A collaborative effort between Balfour Beatty, the Environment Agency and Wyre Council, the scheme involved constructing 2 kilometers of robust sea defences to mitigate the risks posed by rising sea levels and extreme weather events. The final part of the ambitious project was the creation of the Larkholme Grasslands Ecology Park on the landward side of the defences.
Additional Challenges
Prior to the project commencing, the strip of grassland bordering the defences was recognised as a ‘Biological Heritage Site’ due to its unique flora species. The Rossall Coastal defence project sought to enhance this valuable habitat whilst preserving biodiversity.
The Solution
To complement the engineering infrastructure and enhance the local environment, Wildflower Turf Ltd partnered with Wyre Council and Lancashire County Council to develop and grow three bespoke Wildflower Turf® mixes. These mixes were carefully curated and designed to meet the specific conditions of the site and to promote biodiversity, transforming the coastal landscape into a thriving ecological habitat. To ensure the continuation of rare, local species, Landlife, a wildflower charity, (sadly no longer in existence), collected seeds from the existing grassland area during the early stages of construction. These seeds were subsequently incorporated into the bespoke Wildflower Turf® mixes.
The three distinct blends created were, ‘Swale’, ‘Coastal Grassland’ and ‘Bee-Friendly’. Wildflower Turf Ltd developed 28,000m² of Bespoke Wildflower Turf® at it’s headquarters in Hampshire for the Rossall Coastal restoration project. The bee friendly mix included a colourful blend of wildflower species to enhance the visual impact as well as provide a valuable source of nectar for pollinators. This mix was installed in prominent locations within the park, along pathways and in key border areas, enhancing the ecological value of the areas.
The Results
“Wildflower Turf Ltd have helped us to create a wonderful, fully accessible and expansive communal area bursting with a myriad of intriguing flora and fauna for all ages to enjoy. While complimenting the adjacent coast defence scheme that protect 7,000 properties from future floods, the grasslands simultaneously introduces and encourages an abundance of new biodiversity opportunities in a fully sustainable environment, for decades, perhaps even centuries to come.” – Carl Green, Head of Engineering Services, Wyre Council
The Wildflower Turf® installation has had a profound and positive impact on the local environment. The area has become a haven for a diverse range of wildlife species and pollinators alike. The preservation of this Biological Heritage Site has been ensured, safeguarding the unique flora that once inhabited the region. Beyond the ecological benefits, the project has also garnered significant public support. Locals and visitors have expressed their appreciation for the transformation of the landscape. The wildflower meadows not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area but also contribute to a more sustainable ecosystem.
Photo Credits: Joe Wainwright
