Preparation for construction of tidal walls begins in Lowestoft

Work started earlier this month

Author: Sharon PlummerPublished 8th Mar 2021

Preparation for the construction of tidal flood walls in Lowestoft is now underway as work begins on the main site compound and base.

The tidal flood walls are part of the Lowestoft Flood Risk Management Project, which when completed will protect 1,500 homes and 800 businesses. Construction on the tidal flood walls is due to begin in the spring.

Located on Commercial Road, works began on the compound earlier this month and will be completed over the course of four weeks. Ground will be levelled to enable the installation of 15 welfare cabins, inclusive of power, water and drainage works, site fencing and security. The main cabins are due to arrive this week.

Cllr David Ritchie, East Suffolk Council's cabinet member for Planning and Coastal Management said:

"It is excellent to see preparations for construction of the tidal walls underway. They are an important element of the project which will reduce the risks of tidal flooding for homes and businesses."

Solid flood walls will be built around the north harbour, north of the Hamilton Road dock basin and to the south of Hamilton Road. Flood walls with glass tops will run around the Yacht Club and South Pier, allowing unrestricted views across the yacht basin and from the Yacht Club building.

Construction of the flood walls is expected to be complete by summer 2022.

Last month, marine investigation works took place in the harbour entrance which will provide information on the ground structure to inform the design of the foundations of the tidal barrier.

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