Flood protection improvement works to the River Brit in West Bay have made good progress despite challenges from recent adverse weather conditions and Covid restrictions. This partnership project, between the Dorset Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Team (FCERM), Parkdean Resorts UK and Dorset Highways as Principal Contractor will see the installation of a 380m sheet pile wall and re-profiling the riverbank. These essential works were needed as the embankment did not provide adequate flood protection. Once complete, the surrounding area will have improved flood protection for at least 50 years.
Thanks to all parties and sub-contractors working collaboratively, construction was able to start on 30th November last year. These works are in line with Covid-19 risk management procedures and on schedule to be completed as planned by the end of February, despite a challenging timeline.
Remaining activities include aesthetically painting the sheet piling to blend in with its surroundings, soft and hard landscaping and seeding of the earth embankment facing the river. If the very wet conditions persist, the low impact painting and turf laying non-construction activities may extend into the spring to achieve high quality finishes. However, the construction work will be completed and the holiday park will be ready to welcome back its customers when central government guidelines allow.
Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, told KeeP 106:
“Dorset’s FCERM team, Dorset Highways and its sub-contractors have worked together with our tenant Parkdean Resorts UK to see this project delivered in a timely and cost-effective manner. Sheet piling work along the riverbank is now finished and ahead of schedule thanks to the specialist piling sub-contractors Suttle Projects. In fact, the efforts of all parties to work collaboratively against a challenging timeline on a very narrow site area has been appreciated. This is a great example of partnership working to deliver important schemes while making cost savings and strengthening working relationships.”
Further information about the Parkdean Riverbank improvement works can be found on the Dorset Coast Forum website: www.dorsetcoast.com/projects/west-bay-coastal-defence-improvements
