More than 12,500 tonnes of locally sourced rock has been used to protect one of the county's most vulnerable sections of the coastline, to prevent future flooding.

The works are part of a wider £3.7 million project to improve coastal resilience in Mount’s Bay and will also include environmental improvements to Marazion Marsh.

Work on the 350-metre length of coastline at Long Rock should stop it from being breached during storm conditions, flooding the railway and the area behind it.

It is being funded in full by grants from the European Regional Development Fund and the Environment Agency Flood Defence Grant-in-aid. 

Falmouth Packet:

Rob Nolan, cabinet member for for the environment and public protection at Cornwall Council, said: “The work which has been done here is an important element of protecting this particular stretch of coastline, along with businesses and homes behind it.

"The construction which has been done also creates a better public space, with improvements for the users of the coast path and cycleway, who will now be able to stop and admire this stunning view.”

The project reduces the level of flood risk to the community of Long Rock as the impacts of climate change, storm surges and sea level rise increase.

The coast defence scheme:

  • Provides increased coastal protection to the Great Western Railway mainline and A30 transport links in and out of Penzance, plus access to the Isles of Scilly.
  • Protects 295 residential properties and 65 commercial properties.
  • Allows economic development through greater connection with customers.

Councillor Simon Elliott said: “It has been clear from the storms over the last few years that this area is particularly vulnerable and the rock armour represents the best solution in the short term to protecting the businesses and community of Long Rock.

“With the beautiful views across the bay that the coastal path provides, and the area being created by the defences, I was pleased to make £1,000 of my Community Chest fund available to provide picnic benches to hopefully create a great spot to stop and take in our wonderful environment.”

The development, along with creating a new sea defence and public amenity space; has also created two new ramps onto the beach, to allow for greater public access to the water.