Fylde Council is exploring ways to enhance Clifton Street for residents, visitors, and businesses while preserving its heritage charm.
Proposed improvements include upgrading Victorian-style streetlights with energy-efficient heritage-style columns featuring banner arms, hanging baskets, electrical sockets, and integrated artwork.
Addressing safety concerns, the Council is also investigating solutions for uneven pavements caused by tree root expansion. Many of the trees, located on privately owned land, have led to pavement heave, creating trip hazards and injuries.
To explore potential solutions, the Council commissioned an independent arboriculture report by experienced arborist Andy Nicol in the autumn of 2024, but the extended work on the Kirkham Futures Project meant that the work in Lytham was not yet ready to start. The report assessed the health and impact of the existing trees and recommended root pruning as a potential alternative to full tree replacement, helping to mitigate pavement damage while retaining the tree canopy coverage.
To test this approach, specialist contractors will conduct root pruning trials during the weeks commencing 10 and 17 March 2025, using air spades to carefully inspect one tree per day. Lancashire County Council will assist by lifting paving, securing work areas, inspecting roots, and restoring surfaces.
Cllr Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: " Work on the trees in Lytham can now move forward, following the successful completion of other key projects. With capacity now freed up, our regen team is committed to focus on addressing long-standing concerns about pavement safety while ensuring the town’s green spaces are protected and enhanced. Dovetailed with this work will be improvements to the Victorian-style streetlights.
“This next phase is a vital step in maintaining a safe environment for residents and visitors, and we remain committed to finding the best solutions that balance heritage, safety, and sustainability. We appreciate the community’s patience and support as we move forward with this important project.”
A full public engagement process will follow once investigations determine the best course of action.
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