Cleveleys Coastal Protection Scheme wins BCI award

The Cleveleys coast protection scheme started with a dilapidated 1920s seafront and has transformed it into a vibrant 21st century version. The new sinuous, wave-like waterfront has achieved several objectives. First and foremost, it has safeguarded Cleveleys from tidal flooding. The second and third phases of the project have also provided an improved promenade. The judges praised the teamworking approach used in the project, saying, ‘The procurement method was spot on, with contractor involvement from the very start. Contractors brought great value to the scheme and its success’.

After visiting the site as part of the rigorous assessment process, the judges said, ‘The quality, consistency and appearance of the large areas of concrete are outstanding. All round a thoroughly excellent project from start to finish, delivering not only robust sea defences but also model procedures and the regeneration of a totally run down area.’

The project was also hailed as a ‘real seaside project which the public are seeing as fun as well as functional’, and won praise for being delivered 40 weeks ahead of schedule. In addition to its design, the judges were impressed by the way redundant materials were recycled into the new building works, such as using the existing concrete as hard core.

Councillor Peter Hawley, Living Economy Portfolio Holder for Wyre Borough Council said, ‘This is fantastic news and just shows what can be achieved through the kind of working relationship the council has been able to forge with Birse Coastal.’

The scheme was completed 72 weeks ahead of schedule by pre-casting the high risk elements and phasing work through the winter and summer. It also achieved savings of over £1m, partially through economies of scale with other council projects.