West Dorset District Council’s engineers have scooped a top award at a recent ceremony hosted by the Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE) in Bristol.
The pioneering Lyme Regis Environmental Improvements Phase IV scheme beat off 14 competitors to take home the ICE South West Major Project of the Year award at the ceremony last Friday. The award recognises construction projects that stand out for their physical achievement and innovation, and that promote excellence in the engineering profession.
The scheme was funded by Defra, Dorset County Council and West Dorset District Council, and Balfour Beatty was the main contractor.
Cllr Anthony Alford, Leader of West Dorset District Council said:
“We are delighted to receive this award which recognises the council’s achievements over many years.
“This project has truly been a team effort, so congratulations must go to all those involved, including engineers, designers and contractors, as well as those who have helped fund the scheme.
“Phase IV and previous phases have significantly improved the sea defences of the town and helped secure the infrastructure for years to come. Winning this award is just the icing on the cake.”
Andy Duff, Balfour Beatty Managing Director South and Isle of Wight, said:
“The Lyme Regis Environmental Improvement Phase IV Project, delivered in conjunction with West Dorset District Council and their team, was a technically challenging and hugely successful project that was critically important both environmentally and economically, protecting up to 480 homes as well as infrastructure and tourism.”
The £19.5 million project has protected around 390 metres of coastline between Church Cliff and East Cliff, as well as 480 homes to the eastern side of the town from coastal erosion and landslips for the next 50 years.
Cllr Daryl Turner, Lyme Regis member for West Dorset District Council said:
“Lyme residents are indebted to all of the organisations that worked on the new sea wall, not only for the practical security it has given the town, but for the extremely attractive walk it has produced for local residents and visitors alike.”
Phase IV is the latest part of the Lyme Regis coastal protection project to be completed and was officially opened by Cllr Peter Shorland, Chairman of West Dorset District Council and Alan Lovell, former Chair of Wessex Regional Flood Coastal Committee last month.
Other shortlisted projects included the Dawlish Sea Wall Emergency Repairs, Victoria Bridge in Bath and Steart Coastal Management.
