High tide warning issued for Formby and the whole Sefton coast this weekend as beach access impacted

Visitors heading to the Formby coastline this weekend are being urged to plan ahead, with very high tides expected to significantly reduce beach access and force temporary closures.

The National Trust has warned that tides exceeding 9 metres will hit right in the middle of the day, leaving very little beach available for around an hour either side of high tide.

Tide times are expected to peak at 12.14pm on Saturday at 9.39 metres and 12.56pm on Sunday at 9.40 metres, and with high winds also forecast, conditions could be even more extreme than predicted.

Visitors are strongly advised to check tide times before travelling and to take extra care when visiting the coast.

Important reminders have also been issued to help protect local wildlife. Migrating shoreline birds rely on the beach to rest and conserve energy, so people are being asked not to walk towards or through flocks, and to keep dogs and horses well away from them.

Under the Sefton Coast Public Space Protection Order, horses must not be ridden on the beach within two hours either side of high tide.

Meanwhile, Ainsdale beach car park will be closed from Friday 17 April to Sunday 19 April inclusive due to the high tides. The temporary closure has been put in place for safety reasons, with visitors advised to avoid travelling to the car park during this period.

The update has been issued by Sefton Council and the National Trust, who continue to closely monitor conditions along the Sefton coastline.

Visitors are thanked for their cooperation and support in keeping both people and wildlife safe during this period of extreme tidal activity.