An investigation into the state of Kirkcaldy’s sea wall has signalled the start of crucial work to improve the town’s coastal defences.
Fife Council’s transport services have appointed Environmental Scientifics Group Ltd to carry out the four-week probe in preparation for upgrading the 88-year-old sea wall, which is in dire need of shoring up after years of wear and tear.
Some 70 cores are being taken to confirm the wall’s thickness and strength, and inform the design of the Sea Wall Improvement Project with the preparation work expected to be complete by the end of this month.
A separate inspection of storm damage to the sea wall is being carried out by a specialist in marine structures. It will detail where more immediate maintenance is required along the wall.
Recent reports suggested the coastal defences are vital in safeguarding the £87 million worth of assets at risk of flooding and erosion along the waterfront. Ad hoc repairs on damage to the wall are carried out after bad weather but Fife Council has planned a near-£8 million project for a lasting upgrade over the next few years.
Project engineer Murray Scott said, “The council intends to issue a tender for the upgrading of the sea wall later this spring and the project is programmed to start on site in 2012. Any low-cost, short-term repairs identified by the storm damage review will be taken forward in the new financial year to maintain the structure in sound condition until the major project commences.”
The design and build contract comprises upgrading the sea wall, building a rock armour revetment and improvements to existing beach accesses and viewpoints. Geotechnical and structural investigations are also required, with the project expected to be complete in 2014.
The Esplanade area has been prone to flooding over the years, with £200,000 of damage caused by high tides and strong winds along the path in bad weather this time last year. The proposed new wall will be half a metre taller than the existing one, with improved drainage to cut the risk of flooding.