JV lands Fylde coastal defence scheme

VBA, a joint venture comprising VolkerStevin, Boskalis Westminster, and Atkins, has been awarded a £17.5m coastal protection scheme contract by Fylde Council following a competitive tender.

The scheme will include detailed design and construction of new coastal defences at Fairhaven and Church Scar in the Lytham St Annes area.

Built in the 1890s, the current concrete defences are in poor condition and require emergency repairs every year to prevent a major breach, the council said.

The scheme is to be funded by the Environment Agency and is part of the North West Shoreline Management Plan. On completion 2,425 properties will benefit from the new flood and erosion defences. The announcement comes following the completion last month by Balfour Beatty of a £27.1m coastal protection scheme at Anchorsholme, Blackpool.

VBA will begin construction at Church Scar, which will include piling, earthworks, pre-cast concrete revetment installation and concrete re-surfacing to the promenade, before starting work at Fairhaven.

Rob Coupe, managing director at VolkerStevin, said: “VBA has significant experience in coast protection and flood response and is delighted to be working closely with Fylde Council, to not only improve their coastal defences and protect homes, but to enhance the promenade experience for residents and tourists to enjoy, both now and in the future.”

Cllr David Eaves, chairman of the operational management committee for Fylde Council, said: “This is the largest capital project to be undertaken in the history of Fylde Borough Council. After all our hard work I’m delighted to see the contract now executed for the scheme.

“As well as protecting peoples’ homes we have also considered sustainability and economic growth with the scheme. Providing an asset that both residents and visitors can come to relax and enjoy our beautiful coastline. This contract will take two years to complete and we will issue regular communications and press releases to keep residents informed of the progress.”

As part of the protection scheme, VBA will create a temporary bird roost to avoid bird population disturbance to the natural ecology and environment.

Work is currently expected to start on site mid-January 2018 with completion in 2020.

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