Have a say on our coast and going about preserving it
AN increase in visitor numbers inevitably puts pressure on a coastline as spectacular as the one we have on our doorstep.
Throw in the extremes in weather that climate change habitually creates, and a loss of habitat elsewhere for migratory species, and it is a wonder that many of the thousands of organisms that call the Sefton coast “home” continue to occur here at all.
Populations of some threatened species are in decline.
Clearly, as landowners, Sefton Council faces a difficult balancing act between welcoming thousands of visitors to one of the most important Sites of Special Scientific Interest in the country and preserving the fragile eco-system of the dunelands and shore.
The local authority is now urging people to take part in their latest public consultation which sets out its vision for improving and investing in facilities at Ainsdale-on-Sea.
During 2020, an extensive consultation with residents, business owners, visitors and young people took place as part of the Southport Town Deal bid.
It was recognised by a large number of respondents that the beachfront at Ainsdale-on-Sea is in need of investment to improve its facilities for residents and visitors.
The consultation will run until September 30, 2021 and asks for views on the wider development of the coastal gateway including the Sands Lake and Hotel area, Toad Hall and Ainsdale Discovery Centre.
It is an opportunity for residents and beach users to offer thoughts on how facilities could be improved for all, while ensuring Ainsdale’s rare habitats and species are able to survive.
The council has already approved plans for over £350,000 of improvement works to take place in the area. This includes the implementation of a new ‘off-beach’ car park to reduce the impact on local communities affected by irresponsible parking in the past. Designs for this are due to be submitted for planning approval next month, with the new car park expected to be open for Easter 2022.
The agreed works also include plans for new toilet facilities, an exciting art installation at Toad Hall, as well as the set-up of a temporary food and drink concession trial.
In addition, funding is supporting seasonal ranger posts, temporary toilets and rubbish management during a very busy summer season.
Cllr Ian Moncur, Sefton Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “We recognise the need to create high quality visitor infrastructure at a number of access points along the Sefton coast, to drive growth within the visitor economy and provide a high quality visitor experience. This will also reduce visitor pressure on our coastal communities as well as areas of high conservation value – protecting our special wildlife and landscape.”
People are urged to complete the online survey on the Your Sefton Your Say portal and have until the end of September to take part by visiting: https:// yourseftonyoursay.sefton.gov. uk/
Please take part in the consultation – it’s your opportunity to express your thoughts on how to respect, protect and enjoy the Sefton Coast.