The Environment Agency’s flood defence scheme at Medmerry has won the Prime Minister’s Better Public Building Award 2014.

The Environment Agency’s innovative flood defence scheme at Medmerry, Europe's largest open coast managed realignment project, has won the prestigious Prime Minister’s Better Public Building Award that celebrates all round excellence in construction.

The 300ha Medmerry scheme, located on the West Sussex coast, involved the construction of 7km of new defences up to 2km inland and has resulted in a reduced risk of flooding for over 300 homes, as well as a nearby water treatment works and the main road into Selsey.  Additionally, an important new intertidal wildlife habitat and recreational amenity was created that is now managed by the RSPB.  

The award was presented at the British Construction Industry (BCI) Awards ceremony in Park Lane, London. It recognises projects that are completed on time, on budget and bring real change to the community. Previous award winners include the Tate Modern and the Velodrome at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

Bill Cooper, Managing Director at ABPmer said:

“ABPmer played a lead role in the design and EIA assessment for the Medmerry scheme. 

Whilst the project required innovative thinking (not least because it involved a managed breach though a mobile shingle embankment), the improved flood protection that has been provided by both the new sea wall and the large expanse of new wetland in front of it has already proven its worth.

It was particularly valuable when severe storms hit the UK shortly after the site was created. These storms caused a rapid flattening of the shingle bank sea defences and serious flooding events would have occurred without the scheme in place. We are pleased to have brought ABPmer’s expertise in managed realignment to the project.”

A BSI Judge commented:

“A worthy winner with an innovative solution, already demonstrating impact in the environment and a highly satisfied client.”

The British Construction Industry Awards recognise all-round excellence in construction, including the overall design, and delivery of buildings and civil engineering projects.

The Prime Minister’s Better Public Building Award is sponsored by The Cabinet Office and BIS and is open to any new building project of any size and budget commissioned by or on behalf of central or local government.  Nominees were assessed on a range of standards including economic and social value.

View the full list of 2014 BCI Award winners [archived]

^{Image © The Environment Agency / Paul Bowie 2013}