We are currently undertaking the Boston Barrier Flood protection scheme on behalf of the Environment Agency. We are in joint venture with Mott MacDonald. The work is split into three main phases; barrier and right bank flood walls, a new left quay and flood walls, and the dock entrance and flood walls.

The project will include a 25-metre wide rising gate across the section of the River Witham (known as the Haven), to the south of central Boston between Black Sluice and the Grade II listed Maud Foster Sluice. A new control building will operate the barrier. There are flood defence walls on both banks and replacement gates across the entrance to the existing Port of Boston dock.

Other works included are the widening of the entrance to the dock, new quay walls for the port, accommodation works; temporary mooring facilities for the Boston fishing fleet, and a turning basin for commercial shipping. Demolition of two grain towers, a jetty and two large warehouses will also be carried out to complete the project.

With parts of the project itself situated within 30m of resident’s homes, we are especially attentive to our neighbours and before Christmas 2018, delivered Christmas hampers to 200 properties. We also integrated with the community by holding a public open day, where 125 people attended from the community to learn about the project and to see the progress on site for themselves.

During our time on Boston Barrier, we have been making extensive use of local businesses for supply of materials and services.

Legacy

The scope of the project will see over 14,000 homes and countless businesses being protected from future storm surge flooding, including around 226 listed buildings, which are currently at risk. The town will have protection from a 1 in 300 year event and will be protected from forecast sea level rises for 100 years.

Awards

The Environment Agency awarded their ‘National Safety Award’ to our colleague Matt Clipstone, for his quick thinking when a colleague was taken seriously ill, and for his continued dedication to site safety.