Walney Island Sea Defences: Funding Urged Amid Urgent Need

Westmorland and Furness Council has received a call to secure funding for the implementation of “desperately needed” sea defences on an island. Councillor Frank Cassidy informed the council that an “urgent” upgrade to the rock armour protecting Walney Island is required, noting that the sea is “almost lapping at the doors” of chalets located at West Shore Park in Barrow. He highlighted that a decade has passed since any “meaningful defences were established” and that the situation has altered “dramatically” due to climate change. Giles Archibald, the cabinet member responsible for climate, biodiversity, and environmental services, stated that the council is addressing this matter with “high priority.” The local authority is presently collaborating with the Our Future Coast project team to formulate a strategy for managing and adapting to coastal changes. According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, West Shore Park was allocated £200,000 earlier this year by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs for purposes of coastal monitoring and adaptation. Archibald further mentioned that the council has contacted Michelle Scrogham, the MP for Barrow and Furness, to arrange a meeting and “move this forward in a way that protects residents.” He emphasized that coastal erosion on the island holds “extraordinary importance” for the council, but also necessitates engagement at a national level.