New plans have been put forward to strengthen and refurbish the Central Lower Promenade in Whitley Bay.

After an intervention from the Elected Mayor, North Tyneside Council has put together an alternative design for the coastal sea defence project, which will save over £1 million and has incorporated suggestions submitted by the public.

The new proposals have been officially lodged with planning officials who will now consider the application before a decision is expected early in 2017. 

It comes after 166 people attended two exhibition events at the end of last month (October), to examine the proposals in further detail and give their feedback.

Almost everyone who submitted feedback said that they strongly supported the alternative proposals (92%) and backed the need to upgrade Whitley Bay’s sea defenses (93%).

Participants praised the simplicity of the project, which was described as “much better” than the previous proposal, “attractive and practical”, “value for money” and “an improvement to the area” which “could attract visitors”.

The response was similarly positive on social media with many taking to the council’s Facebook pages to comment favourably on the plans and say how they now look forward to the scheme becoming a reality as soon as possible.

The council has considered all of the feedback, which has helped inform its planning application.

Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn said: “I am delighted that we have now submitted the new plans for this important project, which will not only strengthen and safeguard sea defences but also breathe new life into this part of the seafront.

“It’s fantastic too that we have had an overwhelmingly positive response in support of the new designs. Residents have made it clear that they now just want us to get on and deliver this scheme and we really appreciate their patience while these new plans have been drawn up. It is important that we ensure we save public money and get the best design possible, so it will be worth the wait.