£48m Flood prevention scheme in Millport 'progressing well'

With climate change expected to increase the frequency and severity of flooding across Scotland, North Ayrshire Council say that their financial input in the project, illustrates their commitment to the environment and reducing risks to communities

The construction of an offshore breakwater, which will create a calm area of water, is ongoing.

This part of the works is essential to allow a proposed marina - an Ayrshire Growth Deal project - to be constructed in the future.

Foreshore rockworks started at Clyde Street in October, and at Crichton Street/Clyde Street in January, using a barge.

Work also started last summer to create revetments – slopes that absorb wave energy to help reduce coastal erosion at Kelburn Street, Millburn Street and Clyde Street.

Installation of onshore flood walls is also ongoing.

The Millburn Flood Alleviation Scheme in Millport is to be tendered in 2024 and will be constructed in 2025.

The main contractor for the flood protection work in Millport is Van Oord UK Ltd, with support from subsidiary Mackley Civil Engineering.

This project is being managed on behalf of the council by global professional services business, Turner & Townsend, with support from the principal designer, Royal Haskoning DHV.

Councillor Tony Gurney, NAC's cabinet member for green environment and economy, said: “It is encouraging to see the progress that has been made at both the Flood Protection Schemes on Cumbrae, and the one we also have in the Garnock Valley.

Tony Gurney (Image: North Ayrshire Council)

“Due to climate change, we are expecting to experience more severe flooding across Scotland.

“And these projects are vital to help protect communities against risks associated with coastal erosion and flooding.”

The Scottish Government is contributing 80 per cent towards the overall costs of both schemes, with the council meeting the rest.