Seaside resort's coastal defence scheme is taking shape

-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Major coastal defence works on a North Wales seafront are progressing on schedule. Once complete, the Central Prestatyn Coastal Defence scheme will protect more than 2,000 properties along the coast from flooding events and coastal erosion.

The new beach access ramp and the resurfacing of the existing promenade were both completed recently, and work has now commenced on the installation of the sheet piles. These are being installed by an attachment called a ‘Movax’, which pushes the sheet piles into the final position through a sand chimney, helping to reduce any noise and vibration.

The stone fill import for the embankment also recommenced during October. The installation of the sheet piles is scheduled to be completed by early 2025, with the embankment fill reaching its final level by Spring 2025.

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This process will be closely monitored to ensure any unexpected excessive settlement is avoided.

Final access ramps to the Golf Club, Central Access Ramp and Terfyn Pella will follow on from the fill operation, and are set to be completed by late Spring 2025. The final steps will include installing erosion matting, topsoiling, and seeding, with all work aiming to be finished by Autumn 2025.

Chris Hull, Balfour Beatty’s Project Manager, said: “The work has commenced at the Western end near the Golf Clubhouse and will advance eastward, concluding near the existing sand dunes. Our project team is diligently working to ensure the works are completed by Autumn 2025, delivering valuable enhancements to the area while maintaining the utmost standards in safety, quality, and precision.

"We appreciate the public's patience, understanding, and cooperation during the construction period as we work to improve the area's flood defences."

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport said: “The work that is currently going on at the site is progressing well, and we’d like to thank all parties involved for their work up to now. Once completed, these sea defences will help protect over 2,000 properties in the immediate area from flooding events and coastal erosion, safeguarding the area for years to come, and bringing peace of mind to many.”

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