Lofthouse family funds Fleetwood waterfront project

More than £1.6m has been made available for the transformation of Wyre's waterfront thanks to support from the makers of Fisherman's Friend lozenges.

The bulk of the money will go on a major redevelopment of Marine Hall & Gardens. There will also be an architectural wildlife structure at Rossall Point, a mythical coastal trail linking Cleveleys and Fleetwood and public artwork reflecting local heritage and a wildlife observation centre.

Work on the project will start in June thanks to a cash injection from the Government's Sea Change programme, recognising schemes with the potential to regenerate seaside towns through cultural and environmental enhancements. Match funding comes from Wyre Council and the Lofthouse family, makers of the world famous Fisherman's Friend, manufactured in Fleetwood.

Expressions of interest are currently being sought from multi-disciplinary teams of landscape designers, architects and artists who can bring the vision to life.

This will be followed by a process of collaborative design and substantial engagement with the community.

Garry Payne, director of planning and regeneration at the council, said: "We envisage a distinctive seafront with a mix of facilities that enhance existing assets, primarily the open setting and the Marine Hall. Due to the significant generosity of the Lofthouse family, further enhancements over and above what was already planned will be able to take place.

"Residents can be assured that before any designs are finalised, a full and proper consultation exercise will be undertaken."