Lagan Construction Appointed For Belfast Flood Alleviation Scheme

The contract for a major flood alleviation scheme for Belfast has been awarded to Lagan Construction, Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon has announced.

The £17 million Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme involves the detailed design and construction of over five miles (approximately 8.5 kilometres) of flood defences and aims to provide a long term approach to tidal flood risk management in the city. It is anticipated that the completion of the detailed design will take approximately four months with the works commencing on site shortly after.

The scheme has been planned and developed by the Department with the assistance of Consulting Engineers Atkins. Atkins will continue to act on behalf of the Department as the Project Manager to oversee the successful delivery by Lagan Construction Ltd.

Infrastructure Minister Mallon said: "I am pleased to announce that Lagan Construction Limited has been awarded the contract for the Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme. This is a key step forward in the delivery of this £17 million scheme which is designed to reduce tidal flood risk to over 1500 homes and businesses in the City. I hope this will reassure residents and businesses within the city centre, particularly those concerned about the effects of sea level rise caused by climate change.

"The Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme has not only been designed to integrate with the surrounding landscapes and streetscapes but also takes into account the latest projections on climate change. The scheme extends to over 8.5 kilometres along the tidal River Lagan covering the area from Belfast Harbour to Stranmillis Weir. This scheme will provide a long term approach to tidal flood risk management for Belfast and has been designed to allow future adaption to mitigate against potential sea level rises.

"This critical infrastructure will help protect a thriving City for this generation and the next, a City where people want to live, work, visit and invest."

The works will be programmed to minimise any inconvenience to the public, however, road and towpath users should take care in the vicinity of the works and be aware of emerging construction traffic. Pedestrian and cycle access with be maintained at all times with alternative routes provided.

The detailed design and construction stages are estimated to take at least 18 months to complete and it is expected that works will commence on site in early 2022. All work will be carried out in line with current health and safety regulations, with safe systems of working in place for staff and contractors.

The Minister concluded: "I committed during my time as Minister to taking action to protect homes and businesses from flooding. The commencement of this £17 million scheme in Belfast is part of this and I look forward to seeing more schemes like this getting off the ground across the North that will make a real difference to people's lives."