The Christmas Tree planting event at the Fylde sand dunes has proven a tremendous success this year, with more than 600 volunteers attending the two-day event across 5 – 6 February, planting trees donated by local households to help enhance the effectiveness of the dunes as a natural sea defence.
The dunes along the Fylde Coast are home to a diverse and specialised ecosystem, hosting a variety of unique plants and animals. These dunes, designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, play a crucial role in providing habitat for flora and fauna of international and national importance. Additionally, they serve as an effective soft sea defence for our local community. Sadly, over the past 150 years, more than 80% of the dunes have been lost due to coastal town expansion.
The Fylde Sand Dunes Project aims to restore and conserve these dunes by growing them in seawards. The old Christmas trees, donated by residents, are strategically placed in front of the existing dunes. As the wind blows, the branches of the trees trap sand, gradually creating new dunes.
Cllr Tommy Threlfall, Lead Member for Environment, said: “I’m very glad to see the continuing success of the tree planting initiative on Fylde’s sand dunes. The initiative to enhance and build up this unique contribution to our sea defences is one I’m very proud of, having been involved since the start.
“Last year, we received over 2500 trees thanks to the community’s generosity, and we’ve witnessed an impressive 90-metre increase in the width of the Fylde Sand Dune system.
“This year we have received nearly 4000 trees, and every year it gets bigger and better. I’d like to offer my thanks to the members of our community who work together to make this happen.”
Over the weekend of 13-14 January, the annual doorstep collection of unwanted real Christmas raised over £19,725 (excluding gift aid) in donations for Trinity Hospice.
The Fylde Sand Dunes Project is a partnership between The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside, Fylde Council, and Blackpool Council. To read more, visit the Wildlife Trust website.
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