BAM appointed to deliver £1.4m repair works to Robin Hood’s Bay sea wall

BAM has been appointed by Scarborough Borough Council to deliver a major repair scheme on Robin Hood’s Bay sea wall worth £1.4m.

The sea wall, which protects 40 properties from coastal erosion in the historic fishing village, requires extensive repair. The project has been awarded under the Environment Agency’s Collaborative Delivery Framework. As the Environment Agency’s contractor delivery partner in the region, the framework sees BAM deliver extensive flood defence works across North East England.

The sea wall is 14 metres tall and 160 metres long and is the biggest structure that Scarborough Borough Council maintains. The scheme will repair and reinforce the wall, replacing approximately 30 percent of the panels, and repairing others.

In addition to the replacement and repair of the sea wall panels, located at the Western section of Robin Hood’s Bay, the existing steel handrail at the top of the parapet will be replaced and drainage improved.

BAM’s involvement builds on its excellent track record of coastal protection schemes along the Yorkshire coast, including the rock armour protection works at Withernsea which protect both the village and key national infrastructure.

Gareth Farrier, regional director for BAM, said: “Damage to the sea wall has become a concern, so action to safeguard this beautiful historic village is now required. The project team has developed a solution which will enable the restoration of the sea wall in this hugely challenging environment. This will provide vital protection for Robin Hood’s Bay from the power of the sea for years to come.

“We’re delighted that Scarborough Borough Council has appointed us through the Environment Agency’s Collaborative Delivery Framework, which is established to deliver better protected communities at pace.”

Councillor Michelle Donohue-Moncrieff, Scarborough Borough Council cabinet member with responsibility for environment and sustainability, said: “The seawall at Robin Hood’s Bay is a massive piece of infrastructure which keeps many homes safe from coastal erosion. These works represent a significant investment in extending the life of the wall for years to come.

“I am pleased we have secured the expert services of BAM Nuttall and I look forward to repairs starting as soon as possible.”

The sea wall was originally constructed in 1974 and is estimated by Scarborough Borough Council to have a residual service life of less than ten years. Prior to its construction more than 200 properties were lost to the sea which ‘threatened the survival of the village’ according to the authority.

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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