Recognised as one of the most important sand dune systems in North‑West Europe and a vital haven for both wildlife and people, Formby is part of the nationally significant Sefton coastal landscape.
The National Trust launched a major conservation project to restore the natural sand dune habitats to the north of the site. The project involved the removal of the existing beach car park at Victoria Road and large volumes of associated construction rubble, much of which was recovered and repurposed to form a replacement, more sustainable car park relocated further inland.
Located on one of the fastest‑moving coastlines in the UK, the scheme addressed the longstanding issue of rubble from the demolished Harington Barracks, which had been used as the foundation for the original beach car park and had become increasingly exposed through ongoing, natural coastal movement. This rubble was disconnecting rare wildlife habitats and limiting public access to the beach.
Relocating the car park resolved environmental concerns while ensuring long‑term public access. The project restored Formby’s sand dunes to a more natural condition, reconnected important habitats, and created healthier environments where rare dune wildlife can flourish, alongside a safer and more natural setting for the public.
The delivery team successfully navigated several programme challenges, including seasonal constraints linked to bird nesting and the presence of protected sand lizards. By working closely with the contractor and ecologists, potential delays were mitigated and progress maintained. Through proactive programme management and value engineering of project variations, Stace supported the successful delivery of the project on time and under budget.
Stace provided Employer’s Agent, Cost Management and CDM services for The National Trust.
