On Monday 19 January 2026, works will commence to prune the trees on Clifton Street in Lytham. Once this is complete, work will begin on Monday 2 March to install new lighting columns along Clifton Street. The aim of the project is to combine practical infrastructure upgrades with heritage celebration, supporting town centre regeneration and economic development whilst preserving the street’s distinctive character.
FAQs
Why are the trees being pruned?
The trees have outgrown their current environment and are starting to have a negative impact on Clifton Street properties, as well as the adjacent highway. Also, some of the trees have been pruned by their owners in previous years, while others have not. The proposed pruning should result in a streetscape that includes trees with canopies of a similar size and form, which will result in a more aesthetically pleasing streetscape.
How much are they being pruned by?
The trees will be pruned by 20% of their current size.
Why are new lighting columns being installed?
The current lighting was installed some time ago and is starting to show signs of deterioration. Therefore, it was thought that it was an opportune time to replace the current Victorian style lighting with a more contemporary lighting column, which will incorporate artwork that portrays the connection between Lytham and the Clifton family. In addition, the proposed new lighting columns will incorporate flower baskets and banner arms, which will allow for banners to be displayed safely. The banner arms, along with the electrical commando sockets, will also allow for Christmas lighting displays to be erected. This will allow for the removal of the existing catenary lighting.
Finally, the proposed new lighting columns are very similar to the lighting columns that have been install on the A584, providing a visual connection between Clifton Street and Lytham Green.
What will the new lighting columns be like?
The new columns will provide more light to the street, with a back panel to shade any light pollution from neighbouring buildings. The columns have a bracket which has been given a heritage inspired design, including the Clifton coat of arms. Lower down, the columns will feature banner arms and planters.
When will the work start?
Work is due to start on the tree pruning on Monday 19 January 2026. The preferred time to prune London Plane trees is winter, before the trees start to come into leaf.
Works on the lighting columns are due to commence on Monday 2 March 2026.
How long will the work take?
The current estimate for the pruning works is 2 to 3 weeks and the replacement lighting will take approximately 3 weeks.
Will the street be closed during the works?
No, the street will not be closed, nor will the highway. However, there will be some traffic and pedestrian management, which will include the temporary loss of some on-street parking and the temporary closure of one lane of traffic, which will be controlled by temporary traffic lights. Pedestrian movement will be controlled by marshals, who will ensure access to businesses at all times.
Will parking be affected?
Yes, there will be a temporary loss of some on-street parking. Also, there will be a temporary loss of parking on the forecourts of numbers 24 to 42 Clifton Street. The owners of these properties will be made aware and supported with this.
Will businesses remain open throughout the works?
Yes, access to businesses will be maintained at all times. The outside areas associated with The Deacon, Whelans Fish Restaurant and Central Beach Café will be closed temporarily, but all efforts will be made to ensure that the closure is as short as practical, and discussions will remain ongoing with all businesses throughout the works.
Who can I contact for more information about the works?
For any further enquiries regarding the scheme please email regenprojects@fylde.gov.uk and a member of the team will be happy to assist in answering your queries or alternatively you can contact 01253 658658 to speak to a member of the customer services team.
