Levens, South Lakes
Sensitive Riverbank Stabilisation Near Historic Structures
Thomas Armstrong (Construction) Ltd delivered a complex riverbank stabilisation scheme for Cumbria County Council in Levens, South Lakes. The 35-week Design and Build contract was undertaken in an area of high environmental and historical sensitivity.
The project involved constructing a new reinforced concrete retaining wall in close proximity to a Grade 2 listed medieval wall and nearby Grade 2* farmhouse, requiring a zero-vibration methodology and extensive consultation with Historic England, CCC archaeologists, and the Environment Agency. Flood Defence Consent and Water Framework permissions were secured, and a full Cultural Heritage Assessment and Wildlife Survey were commissioned.
Due to the discovery of extensive sub-surface boulders, the original contiguous piling design was abandoned in favour of a reinforced wall built on a cofferdam base within the river. Willow spiling was installed along the bank to form a living barrier, helping the structure visually blend with the landscape.
Works Included
- Design and Build contract with reinforced retaining wall
- Close proximity to Grade 2 listed structures (3m from medieval wall)
- Cultural Heritage Assessment and consultation with CCC archaeologists
- Flood Defence Consent and Water Framework application
- Pollution control and wildlife surveys
- Substitution of original piling design due to site constraints
- Installation of sandbag cofferdam for working platform
- Willow spiling planted for embankment softening
Project Achievements
- Zero-vibration methodology protected nearby heritage assets
- Fully compliant with heritage and environmental regulations
- Engineering design adapted successfully to complex site conditions
- Visually softened outcome with willow planting on the riverbank
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