L-R: Steve Donnelly (South West Flood and Coastal ), Tony Burch (Advisory Group), Andrew Hancock (EDDC), Tom Buxton-Smith (EDDC), Cllr Geoff Jung (EDDC), Cllr Ian Barlow (EDDC), Cllr Hilary Nelson (Sidmouth Town Council), Cllr Chris Lockyear (Sidmouth Town Council), Steve Kershaw (South West Flood and Coastal).

Supplier announced for multi-million-pound coastal defence scheme

East Devon District Council is pleased to announce that a supplier has now been appointed for the design and delivery of Sidmouth and East Beach Coastal Defence Scheme – marking a major milestone in progressing this vital project. 

The proposed £21 million scheme will help protect Sidmouth’s seafront, including areas between Jacob’s Ladder and East Beach, from erosion and flooding for the next 100 years.  

Following a competitive tendering process, the contract has been awarded to Boskalis Westminster Limited, who will work in partnership with the South West Flood and Coastal team, East Devon District Council, and key partners including the Environment Agency, Devon County Council & Sidmouth Town Council.  

Moving into the next phase 

With the supplier now in place, the project will move into the detailed design stage. This phase will include further technical work and continued engagement with local residents, businesses, and stakeholders to help shape the final proposals. 

The business case preferred option was a “hybrid option” chosen following community consultation. It combines proposals for:  

New offshore breakwater(s)

Beach recharge on Town Beach and East Beach

New 120m groyne to the east of East Beach

Improvement/replacement of existing splash wall foundations to accommodate future wall alterations,

Improved flood gates on the Esplanade

New access ramp at the eastern end of Town Beach

New Demountable defences at the eastern end of Town Beach to enable access to new ramp

Repairs and improvements to the River Sid wall

The scheme will be delivered in two stages: 

Stage 1: Detailed Design, Numerical Modelling, Environmental Assessments, and securing necessary Consents and coordination for the Construction Phase.

Stage 2: Based on the results from Stage 1, the second phase will include the final construction preparation and works phase(s).

It is anticipated Stage 1 will be complete, subject to approvals, in the Autumn of 2027.  

The scheme is being developed through a design and build contract, with the contractor involved early in the process. This means the council, designers, contractor, local people and other partners can work together from the start to shape the plans, spot issues early and find practical, affordable and long-lasting solutions. 

The project will keep residents, businesses, community groups, councillors and funding partners informed as the design develops. There will be regular updates on the scheme, the environment and construction planning, with opportunities for local views and knowledge to be considered as decisions are made. 

This scheme is a long-term investment in Sidmouth and East Beach. It will help protect homes, businesses, roads, services and the local environment from flooding, erosion, rising sea levels and climate change. By working with the community and partners, the project aims to build confidence and help protect the coastline for future generations. 

This design and build contract helps to save money in the long run while protecting homes and businesses in the area from floods, risks of rising sea level, impacts of climate change and erosion for years to come.   

To date, the project has raised more than £21million from Environment Agency Flood Defence Grant in Aid (FDGiA), Loval Levy, local councils, and community groups.   

Councillor Geoff Jung, Portfolio Holder for Environment – Operations, said: 

“Appointing a supplier to develop the detailed design is a major step forward for Sidmouth and East Beach Coastal Defence Scheme.

“This milestone brings us closer to protecting Sidmouth’s coastline, homes and businesses for the long term.

“We will continue working with partners and the local community to shape a scheme that delivers lasting protection while respecting the character of the town.

A spokesperson from Boskalis Westminster Limited  said:  “Boskalis Westminster Ltd. are excited to be taking forward the design, consenting and construction of the upgraded sea defences for Sidmouth and East Beach.

“We are committed to working closely with EDDC, South West Flood and Coastal team and the local community to ensure that the completed scheme not only provides enhanced coastal defence but is also sympathetic to the needs of residents and UNESCO World Heritage site at East Beach.”

Further updates will be shared as the design stage progresses, including opportunities for the public to get involved and provide feedback. 

Pictured, from left: Steve Donnelly (South West Flood and Coastal ), Tony Burch (Advisory Group), Andrew Hancock (EDDC), Tom Buxton-Smith (EDDC), Cllr Geoff Jung (EDDC), Cllr Ian Barlow (EDDC), Cllr Hilary Nelson (Sidmouth Town Council), Cllr Chris Lockyear (Sidmouth Town Council), Steve Kershaw (South West Flood and Coastal).