Coastal landmark work complete
02 Mar 2020 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news
Work is complete on the restoration of the main pier in Seahouses after a multi-million pound improvement project.
The £3m scheme, which was led by Northumberland County Council and fully funded by the Environment Agency, involved the whole pier being “re-skinned” to ensure it remained in good condition for years to come.
Exposure to the elements and constant buffeting by the sea had meant the pier was in poor condition - with only 10-15 years of usable life left in it.
The building works, which started last summer, were done in an extremely sensitive marine conservation area and every effort made to prevent or minimise any adverse environmental impacts.
Completion of the work means means the defence will continue to protect businesses and 139 homes in Seahouses from the risk of flooding from the sea.
Councillor Nick Oliver, the council’s representative on the Regional Flood and Coastal Committee, said: “This is an excellent example of partnership working on a key sea defence infrastructure which protects homes and businesses in the harbour area from flood risk from the sea.
“We see regularly the damage flood water can cause to properties so it’s vital major projects like this are carried out to protect local communities for generations to come.”
Councillor Glen Sanderson, Cabinet Member for Environment and Local Services, said: “The pier is also of key importance to the local economy, home to numerous businesses and a draw for the thousands of visitors who come to Seahouses throughout the year.
“We're very pleased that despite this being a very challenging working environment, we were able to work very closely with all harbour users to maintain safe access arrangements throughout the construction work, enabling the businesses based at the harbour to operate as usual."
Catherine Saxon, Environment Agency, North East – Area Director, said: “Flood risk is increasing as the climate emergency brings more extreme weather, more frequent storms and more rain. Flood defences play an important part in reducing the risk of flooding and helping communities to be more resilient.
“We are delighted that the restoration works in Seahouses means residents, the local community and the local economy will continue to benefit from protection from the main pier for years to come.”
Between 2015 and 2021 there is approximately £15m of Flood Defence Grant in aid (FDGiA) being invested across Northumberland, which will help to protect around 2,300 homes.
Seahouses Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson added: “Seahouses pier is a hugely popular visitor destination and Balfour Beatty have done an excellent job to minimise disruption throughout this vital work.
“Now the pier is complete it will be in good shape for generations to come - benefiting homes, visitors and the local community.”