Councillors have gathered in Hove to see the work being done to help protect Brighton & Hove from flooding and coastal erosion for decades to come.
They met at the site where a new groyne field is being built, which will see the beach between the King Alfred Leisure Centre and Second Avenue extended by around 25 metres out to sea.
The space between the new timber groynes will be filled with thousands of tonnes of shingle, taken from a licensed dredging site in the English Channel.
As well as helping to protect homes and businesses along the seafront from flooding, the new groyne field will also reduce shingle washing up onto the promenade, like that seen following Storm Goretti earlier this month.
Working in all weathers
Working during low tide and in rough conditions, timber groynes have begun to be installed along the seafront.
3 timber groynes have been built so far, ready for further work, with a fourth now being prepared.
Councillor Trevor Muten, Cabinet member for Transport and City Infrastructure, said: “It was great to see the work being done up close. Real progress is being made to ensure this part of the beach will better protect homes and businesses along the seafront.
“The city needs to be climate resilient to protect it from climate change, rising sea levels and storms.
“We saw the impact Storm Goretti had on this area recently, with tonnes of shingle washing up onto the promenade. The work being done here will help to reduce that impact and reduce coastal erosion and flooding in Brighton & Hove.”
Paul Hesk, Managing Director, Van Oord UK Ltd “We are delighted that Brighton & Hove City Council has entrusted Van Oord to deliver this important scheme and reduce the risk of flooding and coastal erosion in Brighton & Hove.
We are looking forward to working with the council and local stakeholders to ensure the scheme’s safe and successful delivery whilst minimising disturbance to residents, businesses and visitors.”
