The Environment Agency’s £29m Stallingborough 3 sea defence improvements project between Immingham and Grimsby has seen 90,000 tonnes of rock armour put in place to protect three kilometres of extorting defences.
Put in place by contractors Jackson’s Civil Engineering and their sub-contractors, the rock armour is one of the most sustainable and low-carbon options available and minimises the potential impact on the area’s internationally important habitats.
It will help fortify the walls and prevent the sea undermining them for at least a further 25 years, taking account of climate change predictions.
Refurbishment and erosion protection works were also carried out to a further 1.5km at the southeastern frontage, where the waves are less powerful.
The scheme better protects 2,400 properties, as well as the large industrial area, critical infrastructure and major developments.
Mark Adams, the Environment Agency’s local Client Lead for the project said: “It’s great to see the project reach this important milestone, that strengthens the defences and better protects the local communities and businesses.
“Works to improve the flood defences are vital to manage the threat of flooding and will help drive business confidence and investment in the area. But despite our best efforts, flooding can still happen.”
The majority of the works at the site have now been paused for winter due to ecological restrictions to help wildlife.
From next spring the main outfall improvements will re-commence at Oldfleet Drain and New Cut Drain near Grimsby. These will build flood resilience by improving sustainability and maintenance accessibility into the future.
