Construction work begins at Church Scar coast protection scheme
Work has begun on a two-year, £17.5m coastal protection project along the Fylde coast. The project is a partnership between Fylde Council, VBA and the Environment Agency. The work includes replacement of the current concrete defences in poor condition along the two mile stretch between Fairhaven and Church Scar at Lytham St Annes, which would have required yearly emergency repairs to prevent a major breach.
By deciding to replace it now and include an upgrade to the promenades, Fylde Council will continue to reduce the risk of flooding in the area and will help make sure that the area is both a great place to live and visit. VBA, the main contractor, is a joint venture comprising VolkerStevin, Boskalis Westminster and SNC-Lavalin’s Atkins business, who specialise in designing and constructing sustainable flood and coastal defences throughout the UK.
Richard Birchall, project manager at VBA, said: “The coastal protection works are much needed improvements that will provide added resilience and support economic growth in the region. We are pleased to contribute towards the reduction in flood and erosion risk
that will benefit communities and businesses by safeguarding homes, schools and the surrounding infrastructure.”
The project begins with the installation of sheet piles which will be carried out by piling specialists VolkerGround Engineering, to secure the foundations for the new concrete retaining wall.
The earthworks are then due to start at the end of February to establish the temporary route at Church Scar to enable VBA to commence the removal and replacement of the existing retaining wall.
A dedicated customer centre will be available on-site to the public throughout the duration of the project, to provide information and updates on the site, community benefits and coast protection.
VBA will begin the second phase of works at Fairhaven Lake towards the end of 2018. This will involve upgrading Stanner Bank car park, replacing the retaining wall and refurbishing the existing outfall drainage from Fairhaven Lake to the sea.
The project is due to complete in 2020.
You can keep up to date with the progress of the sea defence work by visiting www.fylde.gov.uk/seadefences