A project milestone has been reached on the £70 million Ipswich Tidal Flood Barrier scheme.

Work to install hydraulic arms to operate the new 200-tonne tidal flood gate is now complete and the structure is expected to be operational in spring 2018.

The project, which is being undertaken by contractor VBA – a joint venture between VolkerStevin, Boskalis Westminster and Atkins, will help reduce the risk of flooding for 2,000 homes and businesses in Ipswich.

The tidal gate was lowered into place by a specially built 1,000-tonne crane and the operating mechanism/control building are now being installed.

-- Advertisement --

The structure is 22 metres wide and will stand 9 metres tall when in its "closed position". It is finished with 5 tonnes of special paint that will help protect it, as it spends most of its life under water.

VIPs, including the Environment Agency's chief executive Sir James Bevan, recently attended an open day at the site to view progress on the scheme.

Sir James Bevan said: "Its been fantastic to visit the Ipswich tidal barrier gate and see this incredible feat of engineering. The £70 million barrier will not only help reduce the threat of flooding for 2,000 homes and businesses but also be a boost for the area's economy. Working with partners has been key to the scheme's success and I look forward to seeing the finished scheme."

Floods Minister, Thérèse Coffey, said: "Suffolk is no stranger to flooding and the devastating impacts it can have. That is why I am really pleased that we have made progress with this scheme which is a key part of the regeneration of our county town.

"This new £70 million barrier is brilliant news for Ipswich and is just 1 example of our investment across Suffolk to better protect communities across the county from flooding."

(LM/MH)