Wyre Borough Council (WBC) has approved plans for the construction of an observation tower at Rossall Point in Fleetwood, Lancashire.
The scheme forms part of a £1.6m programme funded by the former Sea Change initiative and will replace an out-dated facility used by the National Coast Watch Initiative (NCI).
Studio Three architects are behind the plans, which will include several viewing platforms, an education centre and a new home for NCI volunteers.
The tower is due to open by autumn 2011.
WBC cabinet member with responsibility for the Sea Change project Barry Birch said: "Things can really start to move on apace now that planning permission has been secured."