Beach car parks reopen after storm damage tackled
FORMBY beach has finally reopened after it was partially closed following Storm Arwen.
The car parks on Victoria Road and Lifeboat Road were forced to close following initial damage from Storm Arwen and further damage from Storm Barra.
Lifeboat Road reopened a short time later on December 17 but Victoria Road car park has remained shut.
It has now been confirmed that 57 hanging or unstable trees were made safe and more than 100 hectares of woodlands were checked by the National Trust – equivalent to around 120 football pitches.
It has finally been confirmed that the Victoria Road car park has reopened to visitors, giving people full access to the woodlands and beach.
Vicky Blane, general manager of Formby and Central Lancashire Properties, said: “The team are delighted to be reopening the Victoria Road car parks and toilets and look forward to welcoming everyone back to this special place.
“Whilst popular areas nearest to the car park have been made safe, tree safety work continues in the woodland areas. Please look out for signs and keep a safe distance.
“We’re asking visitors to use the Victoria Road car park to access open spaces, including the sand dunes and beach for now.
“The ranger team have been working closely with specialist tree surgeons to make the site safe. Many hours have been dedicated to slowly and carefully felling hanging trees, removing unstable branches and clearing fallen trees blocking pathways.
“The team have also been working hard to keep on top of important conservation and maintenance work happening across the site.
“We’re so grateful for everyone’s support and understanding whilst this important work has been carried out. The safety of visitors, staff and volunteers is a top priority.”