Work to start on £3m project to protect Filey sea wall from coastal erosion

Filey Bay is disappearing into the sea at a rate of 25 centimetres every year, making it a prime candidate for monitoring, according to the European Space Agency (ESA).

Now, the work under North Yorkshire Council aims to ensure this part of the sea defences remain viable for the next 50 years.

The project - which is believed to have more than doubled in cost since it was first suggested - is funded under grants from the Environment Agency.

The scheme will cover a 1.1-kilometre stretch of the coast between Coble Landing in the north and Royal Parade in the south.

The defences here were built between the 19th and 20th centuries, protecting 626 homes and 166 properties, as well as Yorkshire Water assets including sewage pumping stations.

North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for coastal protection, Coun Keane Duncan, said the essential works will replace damaged blocks, slipways and steps.

“Extensive preparatory work has been carried out to ensure the stability of the wall and public safety," he said.

“We are also addressing concerns around erosion at St Martins Gill where the slipway meets the softer undefended cliffs.

“These vital improvements aim to bolster the integrity and resilience of our coastal defences, ensuring better protection for our community, infrastructure, and coastline.”

Work is set to begin August 25, but construction will be held until mid-September to avoid the peak tourist season. The hope is for work to be finished by spring. On August 22, an event is to be held at the Evron Centre from 2pm to 8pm to share details.

Coun Sam Cross, who represents the Filey division, said: “It’s great to hear that the long-awaited repair scheme will begin later this month. It’s a key project in Filey and will be welcomed by those who live here.”