Contractor appointed for coastal protection work in Chichester District

Chichester District councillors have agreed to appoint a specialist contractor to undertake routine maintenance of District’s coastal defence assets.

The decision was made at a meeting of Council’s Cabinet on February 6, 2024.

The contractor will carry out work on behalf of the council over the next five years after the previous contract expired.

“Having an engineering firm under contract means they are able to act promptly if any emergency repairs are needed,” said Councillor Jonathan Brown, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environmental Strategy at Chichester District Council. “They will also contribute to the general beach management works as they will be responsible for enhancing the groynes so that they hold the shingle replenishment that takes place.

“Although it’s not one of our statutory duties, looking after our nine-mile stretch of coastline to prevent erosion is a priority for our council. The contract covers important routine work that helps protect hundreds of homes and businesses in Selsey, Bracklesham and East Wittering.

“The contract also provides greater certainty of work for the contractor and will enable them to build a skilled team with specific knowledge of our frontages and their challenges, which will add value to the work achieved.”

The contract includes an emergency call-out maintenance service that requires them to attend on site within two hours for 365 days of the year.