In a remarkable display of community spirit, volunteers are set to gather on St Annes beach this February for a unique environmental project aimed at shoring up the coastline. From Tuesday 10th to Thursday 12th February, participants will plant thousands of donated Christmas trees to bolster the area's natural defences against flooding.
A Festive Solution to Coastal Erosion
The initiative, spearheaded by the Fylde Sand Dunes Project, involves strategically placing the trees in front of existing dunes. The branches of these festive firs will catch blowing sand, encouraging the natural growth of new dunes. These emerging dunes serve as a crucial 'soft' sea defence, helping to safeguard local homes and businesses from the threat of coastal flooding.
Community Collaboration and Generous Donations
This fantastic project is a collaborative effort between Fylde Council, Lancashire Wildlife Trust, and Blackpool Council. Many of the trees were generously provided by Trinity Hospice, whose festive collection service raised an impressive £37,000 for charity this year. The trees were collected from residents at various car parks across St Annes and Kirkham, demonstrating widespread community support.
Councillor Tommy Threlfall emphasised the long-term benefits of these donations, stating that they enable the community to construct natural defences that will endure for generations. Last year alone, the generosity of local families contributed to the creation of an impressive 90 metres of brand-new sand dunes, showcasing the project's tangible impact.
Restoring Vital Habitats for Nature
The work extends beyond flood protection, as the dunes are a protected site for rare plants and animals. Over the last 150 years, these habitats have shrunk by a staggering 80%, making restoration efforts critically important for biodiversity. Project officer Amy Pennington explained that the goal is to grow the dunes seawards, enhancing their effectiveness as both a natural barrier and a thriving ecosystem.
Call for Volunteers to Join the Effort
The team is actively seeking more volunteers to join this rewarding initiative. If you are interested in rolling up your sleeves and contributing to this vital coastal conservation work, further details on how to get involved are available through the Lancashire Wildlife Trust.
This community-driven project not only strengthens coastal defences but also fosters a sense of collective responsibility towards preserving our natural environment for future generations.
