Balfour Beatty has been awarded a £27 million contract to execute a vital flood protection project in Comrie, Scotland. Commissioned by Perth and Kinross Council, the project aims to safeguard homes and businesses in an area prone to frequent flooding.
Overview of the Comrie Flood Protection Scheme
The flood protection scheme involves the construction of 2.8 kilometers of river walls and embankments along three key rivers: the Ruchill River, River Earn, and River Lednock. Once completed, this infrastructure will protect nearly 200 residential and commercial properties from the devastating effects of flooding, a recurring issue in Comrie.
Scope of Work
- Construction of river walls: Reinforcing riverbanks to prevent overflow.
- Building embankments: Creating barriers that direct water flow and prevent flooding.
This comprehensive flood defense system is designed to reduce the risk of future floods in a region well known for significant flood events.
Project Approval and Timeline
The flood protection plan was officially approved by the Council’s Environment and Infrastructure Committee in August 2021. Scottish Ministers granted planning permission in December 2021, allowing the project to move forward.
In the spring of 2023, the detailed design phase was completed, and the process of appointing a contractor began. Balfour Beatty was selected for their expertise in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects.
Funding Breakdown for the Comrie Flood Protection Project
The total project cost will be shared between the Scottish Government and Perth and Kinross Council. The Scottish Government will fund 80% of the overall capital cost, with the remaining 20% being covered by the Council. This partnership ensures the necessary financial support for the completion of the flood protection scheme.
Why This Project is Important for Comrie
Comrie is highly vulnerable to flooding due to its location along multiple rivers. With climate change increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, flood protection has become a critical issue for the local community. The new infrastructure will not only protect existing homes and businesses but also help secure the future development and safety of the area.
Next Steps in the Comrie Flood Defense Project
As construction gets underway, local residents and businesses can expect to see significant progress in safeguarding their properties. Balfour Beatty will work closely with Perth and Kinross Council to ensure the timely and successful delivery of the project.