Wirral Council has issued an update on progress installing the new flood wall in West Kirby.
The first sections of the seating which will form the sea defence have now been installed. By early January it is expected more than half of the 1.1km stretch will be in place, from Riversdale Road to Church Road.
The local authority says the whole scheme, including new public realm and a cycle lane, is scheduled to be completed “in the first part of 2023”.
The design of the wall will resemble a ‘wave’ with a continuous curve containing seating, memorial or celebratory plaques – including replicas of those previously in place on the promenade. Timber slats will be added to the seating towards the end of the contract.
The council has confirmed that two Victorian shelters which were removed to accommodate the building of the wall will be replicated as part of the completed scheme “with the aim of using materials from the original structures where possible”.
Extra car parking
From Monday 28 November – Friday 6 January, a 60 space car park aimed at West Kirby residents will be available on weekdays at West Kirby Sailing Centre.
It is part of a drive to send out a message to residents and visitors that restaurants, cafes and bars in West Kirby remain open for business.
It will partly compensate for the loss of parking on the promenade and Dee Lane car park, which is being used as a compound during the work.
People will be able to park for free in the 60 space for up to two hours, Monday to Friday, from 8:30am – 5:30pm.
Members of the public are being urged to use the large car park at the back of West Kirby Concourse as an alternative, or public transport.
Cllr Liz Grey, Chair of the Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee for Wirral Council, said: “This is an important phase of the flood alleviation scheme as it gives a glimpse of what the finished article will look like and shows people living in the area – and those who visit regularly – that the project is nearing the finishing straight.
“People have been incredibly patient and understanding since work started in June and I hope they will be happy with the outcome when the works finish next year.
“Whilst this is a flood prevention scheme first and foremost, officers and the specialists who have supported the council and Environment Agency in the development and delivery of the plans have been mindful that the end result also needed to bring additional improvements to – and blend in with – the existing promenade and this is what is happening. It is exciting to see it taking shape.”
