Coastal defence plans reveal tropical makeover for Kinmel Bay

Richard Evans, local democracy reporter

Kinmel Bay could soon resemble a tropical paradise if multi-million-pound coastal defence plans get the go-ahead.

Conwy County Council has submitted coastal-defence plans to its own planning department for the 2.3 km stretch of coastline at Kinmel Bay, including a coastal path, car park, and public areas.

The plans, though, have already got some people excited as the artist’s impressions show a sandy beach complete with parasols more in keeping with Rhodes than neighbouring Rhyl.

The proposals include new rock armour defences, raised sea walls, and a widened coastal path to help protect Kinmel Bay from rising sea levels.

But the plans also feature improved beach access, a car park upgrade, new street furniture, a shelter, a toilet block, and ecological enhancements.

The multi-million-pound scheme will be funded by Welsh Government.

Conwy’s head of roads and environment Gerraint Edwards provided a statement as part of the application’s supporting information.

“We are preparing a planning application for coastal defence improvement work between Towyn Revetment and Kinmel Bay,” he said.

Coastal flooding

“The scheme is designed to protect properties and infrastructure from the continued threat of coastal flooding and the impacts of climate change.

“We are also proposing public realm improvements and ecological enhancements to maximise the wider benefits of the scheme.”

Conwy is carrying out numerous sea defence improvements along its 73 km coastline.

Under the Coast Protection Act 1949, the council has the power to order or carry out coastal protection works on land when necessary.

Conwy manages 23 km of artificial sea defences, including breakwaters and sea walls, as well as the promenades at Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Llanfairfechan, and Penmaenmawr.

Conwy’s current strategy for most sections of its coastline is ‘hold the line’, the council being covered by two shoreline management plans: the West of Wales Shoreline Management Plan and the North West England and North Wales Shoreline Management Plan.

The proposals are set to be debated by councillors at a future planning committee meeting at Bodlondeb.