The project aims to solve the long-standing problem of the huge amounts of rubble that is spilling out on to the beach. The rubble is all that remains of the old Harington Barracks, which were demolished after the Second World War. The demolition rubble was used to form the foundations of the current beach car park. Natural processes that create Formby’s fast-shifting shoreline mean that each year more rubble is being exposed. The rubble is disconnecting wildlife habitats and restricting visitor access to the beach.  

Relocating the car park not only solves the rubble issue but will also help ensure there is space for people to park and enjoy Formby for years to come. The vision is to create healthier habitats where rare dune wildlife can thrive and a safer, more natural space for visitors to enjoy.

We're continuing to collaborate with partners along the Sefton Coast to manage the increased challenges busy days will bring during the project this summer. A visitor management plan has been agreed including diversion route signs for cars and people walking to the beach. Our website and social media will be regularly updated with frequent reminders about the car park closure and impact on people’s plans to visit.

Justin Matthews, Formby and Central Lancashire Area Ranger at National Trust said: “Formby is part of one of the fastest-moving coastlines in the UK. Areas of naturally shifting sand create special habitats for rare sand dune wildlife, including natterjack toads and sand lizards. Sand dunes can also act as a natural sea defence if they’re given the space to shift over time. The old construction rubble is creating a barrier and stopping natural sand movement. This project will help us restore Formby’s sand dunes to their natural state and re-connect important habitats, creating space for wildlife to thrive”