SOLD DOWN THE RIVER BY THE TORIES (Fylde Liberal Democrats)

Fylde Liberal Democrats <info@fyldelibdems.org.uk>

SOLD DOWN THE RIVER BY THE TORIES

October 3, 2007 4:34 PM

Liberal Democrats are vehemently opposed to the Tory sell-off of the North Beach Car park in St. Anne's. It is to be offered for sale despite being at serious risk of flooding. Attempts by the Libdems and opposition groups to stop the sale failed by a very narrow majority. Councillors voted four to three in favour of council officers working out a price of sale for the in a meeting on Monday night, despite protests from concerned councillors and nearby residents.

Cllr. Howard Henshaw has protested against the closure of the car park for a number of years.

He said: "This decision is absolutely disgusting. The car park provides safe access to the beach and is a vital part of the area's flood defence system. This is the only car park this side of St Annes, yet there are four on the opposite side of the pier."

Cllr. Tony Ford, who represents the ward where the car park is situated said, "this car park could be a vital asset if sand-based leisure activities resume on the beach. There is nowhere else for families to park safely. The only alternative parking is on a very busy Clifton Drive North which has traffic speeds in excess of 40mph."

Those opposed to the closure fear that flats could be built on the site if the car park is closed but at very high tide the area could flood so it would be a ridiculous place for houses. However without a flood risk report, requested some 18 months ago from DEFRA it is unlikely anything will be happening in the very near future.