VolkerStevin awarded Medway Council contract to deliver flood defence works
A contract to improve flood defences and raise ground levels at Strood in Medway, South East England, has been awarded to VolkerStevin by Medway Council through its Medway Highways Infrastructure contract with VolkerHighways.
The scope of work includes the construction of a new 850 metre long steel sheet pile river wall, demolition of an existing concrete storage building, remediation works and the installation of 10,000 drains. VolkerStevin is also importing 120,000 tonnes of fill material in order to raise the ground levels.
Realignment of the carriageway away from the watercourse will be carried out by VolkerHighways. Two of VolkerStevin’s specialist division’s, VolkerGround Engineering, and VolkerBrooks, will collaborate together to procure and install the new steel sheet pile wall and undertake awarded fabrication works.
Rob Coupe, managing director at VolkerStevin, said: “We are pleased to have been awarded this flood defence project which will not only help protect homes, but also allow for economic growth within the housing market. Working alongside one of our other VolkerWessels UK business units, VolkerHighways, demonstrates the diverse range of our capabilities as part of a wider group.”
Cllr Rodney Chambers, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Strategic Regeneration and Partnerships, said: “We are pleased that the flood defence works are now underway. This is the first phase of development at Strood Waterfront which will pave the way for future development of the site which has breathtaking views across the river to Rochester castle and is close to two railway stations. The works at the waterfront compliments the ongoing regeneration programme in Strood and I look forward to seeing the works completed.”
Medway Council’s scheme combines the new developments of Strood Riverside and the former Civic Centre site which will make way for future development on the site. Medway Council successfully secured £3.5million from the government’s Local Growth Fund through the South East Local Enterprise Partnership for the flood defences works.
Enabling works started in April 2018, with the main work beginning in May. Project completion is planned for April 2019.