A PROPOSED start date for work to prevent erosion of a landfill site has been identified. 

An environmental scoping report was prepared in relation to South Walney landfill.

The report was prepared by Capita Real Estate and Infrastructure Ltd on behalf of contractor Story Contracting Ltd and 'overseeing organisation' Cumbria County Council.

The scoping report responds to a screening opinion issued by Barrow Borough Council, as the local planning authority, on December 22, 2021.

The proposal is to remove the existing damaged rock armour from the seaward face of the landfill site and replace it with a new, larger rock armour revetment to 'prevent further erosion of the landfill and subsequent emission of waste into the sea'.

Construction on the proposed scheme is anticipated to commence in May 2023. 

The scoping report submitted states: "The proposed scheme comprises construction of a new rock armour revetment.

"The existing rock armour revetment will be removed and, where possible, the stones will be set aside for reuse in the new structure.

"The new revetment will be extended along the erosion-affected area of the beach and has been designed to address failures and slips in the existing landfill containment bund.

"There is need for extension and augmentation of the existing erosion controls to provide adequate protection to the former landfill site from wave action and rainfall impacts.

"The proposed scheme will be extended inland to reinforce the existing landfill containment area, rather than further onto the foreshore, to avoid altering sediment movements and lateral drift for sands along the coastal zone.

"Extreme events will likely still see a minimal degree of overtopping for return periods in excess of 1-in-100-year events.

"However, the proposed scheme will provide improved resistance for weathering for a design period of 50 years.

"Construction will be phased so that all works are to proceed from north to south along the revetment area, thereby minimising impact along the beach surrounding local fields and potential habitat areas."

The statement says access to the site, once construction has begun, would mainly be achieved via Mawflat Lane.