Church Scar Sea Defence

Apr 12

Case Study: Church Scar Sea Defence

Contract No: 02/611/7002

Client: VBA

Location: Lytham 

Value: TBAS

Summary: Job Completed

Background

The main contractor is VBA, a joint venture between VolkerStevin, Boskalis Westminster and Atkins are replacing the sea defence walls, as the existing coastal defences are time-expired and currently failing. The current concrete coast defences were built in the 1890’s and have been undergoing emergency repairs every year to prevent a major breach.

The £17.5m contract is to provide new coast protection at Fairhaven and Church Scar, including coastal defences and an upgrade to the promenades. 

Why Is This Being Done?

Fylde Council require the work to be undertaken in the area to protect people’s homes and sustain economic growth, as the existing sea defence wall is deteriorating. By replacing it now, we will continue to protect the area from flooding. The combined flood and erosion risk affects 2,425 residential properties, schools and infrastructure serving the wider area.

Challenges

Removal of 2050m² of vegetation was required on the existing 1:2 Revetment for repairs to be made. Working in a tidal location and with load limitations placed on the newly installed promenade. 

The Outcome

Buxton Water utilised a tracked MEWP to gain access from the beach to the workface on the revetment. Using High Pressure Water Jetting, we were able to remove all the vegetation quickly and effectively.

With this project, Buxton Water further cements its position as a contractor able to deal with any manner of site condition that may be imposed safely and efficiently.