The brand-new flood defence scheme for West Kirby, will involve the construction of a 1.1km long curved wall along South Parade, between the junctions with Sandy Lane and Riversdale Road. Wirral Council is working with expert partners such as the Environment Agency to build a flood defence to reduce the risk of flooding. The flood alleviation scheme aims to protect the area from flooding well into the next century.
At 1.2m high, the wall will act as a barrier separating South Parade and properties situated on it from potentially damaging flood waters, which Council and Environment Agency officers confirmed were becoming an increasingly likely occurrence as a result of climate change and other natural phenomena.
Work has commenced on site and is programmed to be substantially complete by early 2023. This timeframe is in line with the recommendations of a Habitat Regulations Assessment carried out as part of the planning process and will minimize disruption to migrating birds and other wildlife that are present at times at West Kirby.
During the work, temporary road and footpath closures would be put in place for short sections of South Parade at a time, with access for residents only. The Council and the Environment Agency’s framework Contractors, who will be constructing the Works, will be engaging with local residents throughout the scheme and assisting them to keep disruption to a minimum.
As well as the barrier itself – the design of which will resemble a wave with a continuous curve containing seating, memorial or celebratory plaques, access points and crossing spaces – the scheme also includes an upgraded public realm, including new paving and highway on South Parade, refurbishment of the Old Baths and the introduction of a dedicated cycle lane.
Article from Wirral Council.
Click here to view the ‘West Kirby Flood Alleviation Scheme’ page.
