The Environment Agency and Somerset Council, working with infrastructure partner Kier, have reached another major milestone for the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier Scheme with the award of a £101m Construction Continuation Contract.
This award represents the next phase in delivery of the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier Scheme and reflects a responsible approach to progressing a national infrastructure project in a managed and controlled way. The contract supports ongoing delivery of construction activity, including completion of the barrier substructure while maintaining momentum towards future stages of delivery and completion of the scheme.
Directly contributing to the UK government’s ‘National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy for England’ this flagship scheme delivers vital, long-term protection for communities, businesses and infrastructure at risk of flooding.
Since 2023, Kier has made significant progress on site with both the downstream defences progressing at pace and completion of the complex enabling works that form the safe working platforms and foundations for the tidal barrier.
A defining feature of the Bridgwater skyline for just over a year, the departure of the Haven SeaSeven jack up barge in April signalled the completion of temporary works for the bypass channel and in-channel cofferdam. This marks the successful completion of a major phase of works and the transition towards construction of the barrier’s permanent structures.
Once complete, the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier will reduce tidal flood risk for around 11,300 homes and 1,500 businesses, while protecting key infrastructure and supporting long-term economic resilience across the area.
Sonal Mitra EA Deputy Director for the Environment Agency, said:
Delivering infrastructure of this scale requires close collaboration, careful planning and a phased approach to delivery. This next stage of the scheme will enable continued progress on critical construction activity while supporting the construction of the tidal barrier itself. We remain focused on ensuring the scheme delivers lasting flood resilience, achieves value for money and provides wider environmental and community benefits for the area.
Ross MacKenzie, managing director of Natural Resources at Kier Infrastructure, said:
Together, we are focused on delivering a resilient, long-lasting flood defence that will help protect Bridgwater and surrounding communities. This contract award reflects the strength of our longstanding partnership with the Environment Agency and the significant progress our talented teams have already made on site. We are proud to be shaping such a nationally significant project that will leave a legacy for Somerset communities.
