Colwyn Bay coastal defence achieves BREEAM Infrastructure Outstanding

The Colwyn Bay coastline in North Wales has long grappled with the challenges posed by frequent storms, resulting in lowered beach levels and persistent damage to coastal defences. Phase 2b of the Colwyn Bay Waterfront Project was conceived as a solution to these issues, with a range of coastal defence, promenade, and active travel improvements. 

The project's scope was extensive. It included the importation and placement of sand to recharge the beach, effectively raising the coastal defence line. The use of reclaimed revetment to raise the terminal groyne, outfall extensions, and sea wall works further bolstered the area's resilience against coastal threats. 

Beyond flood defence, the project took a holistic approach to urban regeneration. Public realm improvements on the promenade were a key feature, including the creation of high-quality segregated pedestrian and cycle paths. The design incorporated serviced areas for future kiosks and flexible spaces for outdoor activities, anticipating the area's potential for community engagement and economic growth. 

The project team paid careful attention to both aesthetics and functionality. Robust hard landscaping was implemented alongside themed artwork, creating a visually appealing environment that celebrated the area's character. Climate-sensitive soft landscaping was installed, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable and adaptive design practices. 

Practical amenities were not overlooked, with the provision of cycle and vehicle parking, including accessible spaces and EV charging points, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to urban mobility. The installation of street furniture and energy-efficient lighting further enhanced the promenade's usability and safety. 

Traffic routing changes were implemented to allow for a wider public realm, prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist experiences. Perhaps most notably, the project included ecological enhancement of Cayley Embankment, showcasing a commitment to biodiversity and natural habitats within an urban setting. 

The project team faced a complex array of challenges that required innovative thinking and careful planning. Perhaps the most pressing was the need to manage extended construction timeframes in an area heavily reliant on tourism. This necessitated a delicate balance between progress and consideration for the local economy. 

Minimising disruption to local businesses, residents, and recreational users was paramount. The team had to develop strategies to maintain access to the beach and promenade as much as possible during construction, ensuring that the very people the project aimed to benefit weren't unduly inconvenienced. 

A unique challenge arose from the need to coordinate beach recharge activities during the busier Summer months to avoid stormy weather. This required meticulous planning and execution to minimise impact on tourism while ensuring the effectiveness of the coastal defence measures. 

Integrating new coastal defences with environmental improvements along the promenade presented another significant challenge. The team had to strike a balance between robust flood protection and the creation of an attractive, user-friendly public space. This demanded a nuanced approach to design, incorporating elements that would serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.

The BREEAM Infrastructure framework guided the project team towards a suite of innovative solutions that addressed these challenges head-on. At the heart of their approach was a Design for Resource Efficiency (D4RE) workshop at the outset of the project. This forward-thinking tool, developed by Mott MacDonald, focused the team's efforts on crucial aspects such as energy reduction, water conservation, and sustainable procurement throughout both the construction and operational phases of the project. 

The results of this approach were impressive: 

• 46% reduction in embodied carbon between Conceptual and Tender design stages 
• Reuse of approximately 9,500m³ of rock revetment within the scheme area 
• Creation of an ecological enhancement area at Cayley Embankment 

In terms of resource efficiency, the team made remarkable strides. They successfully reused large quantities of rock revetment within the scheme area, demonstrating a commitment to circular economy principles. The beach recharge design was optimised to reduce material requirements, and where possible, existing pavement surfacing was left in-situ, further minimising resource use. 

Environmental integration was a key focus. The creation of an ecological enhancement area at Cayley Embankment showcased the project's commitment to biodiversity. This area saw improved grassland management, local sourced seeding, and the planting of native shrubs. The team also installed invertebrate habitats and bird boxes, along with bat box provision in an adjacent woodland area. 

Community engagement and minimising disruption were addressed through a system of staggered closures during construction. This approach ensured that alternative sections of beach and promenade were always available for public use, with appropriate signage directing people to the nearest accesses. 

Transport improvements were integral to the project's success. The team introduced a one-way system along the base of Cayley Embankment, allowing for the expansion of the pedestrian/cycle promenade area. Electric vehicle charging points were installed, and the design facilitated work to upgrade a local electricity substation to meet new and anticipated future demand. New pedestrian crossings and improved parking spaces, including those for blue badge holders, further enhanced accessibility and safety. 

The Colwyn Bay Waterfront Project Phase 2b delivered many environmental, social, and economic benefits. From an environmental perspective, the project achieved a 46% reduction in embodied carbon, saving an impressive 3,884 tCO2e. This significant reduction demonstrates the power of thoughtful design and innovative construction practices in mitigating climate impact. 

Biodiversity saw a substantial boost, with the project increasing the ecological value of the area through improved grassland management, locally sourced seeding, and the planting of native shrubs. The incorporation of climate-sensitive landscaping and energy-efficient lighting further underscored the project's commitment to sustainable design. 

The project has also transformed the waterfront into a vibrant community space. The creation of a widened public realm area along the promenade has provided space for the local community to sit, exercise, play, and meet. Active travel improvements, including wider and improved cycle and pedestrian routes, will help enhance quality of life and healthier lifestyles. 

Economically, the project has laid the groundwork for long-term prosperity. The improved flood protection provides security for Colwyn Bay residents and businesses, potentially saving millions in future flood damage. The enhanced promenade and facilities are expected to boost tourism, providing a much-needed economic stimulus to the area. The project provided serviced areas for future installation of concession kiosks, equipped with power, water connections, and integrated seating. However, the kiosks themselves will be completed under a separate funding initiative in the future.

The project's integration with its surroundings was particularly noteworthy. The careful design reflected local coastal features, creating a sense of place that resonates with the area's natural beauty. The incorporation of sections of the Wales Coast Path and National Cycle Route 5 into the improved active travel routes demonstrates how the project connects to wider regional networks, enhancing both local and visitor experiences.