The Environment Agency and Somerset Council have awarded infrastructure firm Kier a £101m ‘Construction Continuation Contract’ to advance the Bridgwater Tidal Barrier project. This phase follows a design efficiency review aimed at optimizing costs and maintenance while maintaining the project’s core flood protection objectives.
Key design modifications include reducing the height of the three main towers from 25m to 15m, relocating mechanical drive equipment to the base for improved maintenance access, and replacing the original overbridge with lightweight high-level walkways. According to officials, these changes ensure the infrastructure remains resilient and cost-effective over its design life, which extends to 2125.
The project, which aims to protect approximately 12,800 homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure from tidal flooding, utilizes a phased procurement strategy. This approach allows the Environment Agency to manage construction inflation and mitigate financial risk by completing segments of the build alongside detailed design iterations. Kier has been active on-site since 2023, having recently completed complex enabling works, including temporary foundations and cofferdams.
In separate corporate developments, Kier Group announced the appointment of Niki Steel as its new chief human resources officer. Steel, formerly of multinational engineering firm IMI, will join the executive committee in August to oversee the company’s 10,000-strong workforce as it continues its infrastructure and construction operations.