Protecting homes and businesses in Norfolk through coastal protection

Balfour Beatty is to deliver two coastal defence schemes on behalf of North Norfolk District Council (NNDC). The Cromer Phase 2 scheme and the Mundesley Coastal Management scheme have a combined value of £19.5 million.

Delivered through our Civil Engineering framework, they will also involve the creation of new habitats for the surrounding wildlife and community, ensuring that the works leave a positive and sustainable legacy.

The Cromer Coastal Defence Scheme will see Balfour Beatty construct a new rock armour revetment on the Norfolk coast either side of Cromer pier, with 38,000 tonnes of rock placed on the shoreline.

In 2015, Phase 1 of the Cromer Coastal Management Scheme was completed, enabling these works and Phase 2 to take place, which will involve repair and installation works on:

• groynes
• navigation beacons
• concrete apron
• rock revetment
• access improvement works

The Mundesley Coastal Defence Scheme between Bacton and Trimmingham, will involved 36,000 tonnes of rock being placed on the shoreline. The team will also reinforce the existing coastal protection infrastructure, and refurbish the groynes – a wooden barrier used to separate the land from the sea.

Work will see a "rock berm" - a barrier used to direct water away from a particular area - in front of an existing steel frame and an extension of an existing ramp on the east to allow access to the beach.

Coastal Partnership East will deliver both schemes on behalf of NNDC, with funding from the Environment Agency and the Mundesley Parish Council. It is hoped the schemes will reduce the risk of coastal erosion for the communities.

To support the bold targets and ambitions set out in its sustainability strategy, Building New Futures, Balfour Beatty will also create a new underground habitat for local wildlife, offering shelter for various subterranean animals to nest.

As part of its commitment to leaving a lasting, positive legacy in the communities in which it operates, Balfour Beatty will divert 95% of waste from landfill by recycling materials and donating excess timber to community projects and charities.

Residents and businesses will be able to attend drop-in sessions to find out more about these sea defence schemes.

Works on both schemes are due to commence this winter with completion expected in early 2025. At construction peak, the schemes will employ a workforce of around 50, including 4 apprenticeship, graduate, and trainee positions.