Seahouses Coast Protection Scheme: North Sunderland Harbour.
Report by:
Chris Budzynski – Environmental Maintenance Manager
Ward Implications:
North Sunderland
1
Summary
1.1.
Scheme to carry out works to the existing breakwater and outer harbour wall at North Sunderland Harbour have been approved in principle by DEFRA.
1.2
DEFRA now require, as part of the final submission for funding, a formal resolution from the Council agreeing to the works being carried out.
2
Recommendations
2.1
To agree that repair works be carried out to the existing breakwater and outer harbour wall at North Sunderland Harbour subject to receiving 100% grant aid from DEFRA.
3
Report
3.1
The condition of the walls in and around North Sunderland Harbour have been the subject of a number of studies in recent years. A detailed project appraisal was carried out in October 2005 assessing the continuing deterioration of the situation.
Failure of the breakwater will considerably increase the wave heights within the harbour resulting in significant health and safety hazards for harbour users and public as well as resulting in overtopping of the harbour walls causing damage to properties and walls themselves.
3.2
The proposed works will involve encasement of the southern section and repair of the parapet wall along the northern section. Further repair/protective works will be carried out to the harbour wall.
3.3
DEFRA originally approved the scheme with an allocation of funding in 2005. However, we were unable to progress the scheme as the funding was withdrawn by DEFRA due to their internal financial problems.
DEFRA have recently advised that they anticipate funding will be available for this scheme to progress in April 2008 and have asked for the formal consultation exercise to be carried out.
This exercise requires a formal resolution from the Council as part of the process. Hence the reason for this report.
4
Implications
4.1
Comments from the Council’s Section 151 Officer
Scheme will be funded with 100% grant from DEFRA, no comments.
4.2
Comments from the Council’s Monitoring Officer
None
4.3
Comments from the Head of Paid Service
None
4.4
Local Agenda 21
None
4.5
Equality
None
4.6
Crime and Disorder
None
5
Report Author
5.1
Chris Budzynski, Environmental Maintenance Manager (01289) 301801 email cjb@berwick-upon-tweed.gov.uk
