GB-Lowestoft: Interim Temporary Flood Barriers

In December 2013 the Suffolk coast suffered the most significant sea-surge generated flood event since 1953. Large parts of central Lowestoft were flooded by seawater, the majority of which came from overtopping of low parts of harbour quay walls in the outer harbour and Lake Lothing water areas. Backflow through sewers was also thought to have contributed.

As a result of this event WDC, working closely with partners Suffolk County Council (SCC) and the Environment Agency (EA), is promoting a scheme to build a permanent tidal flood barrier that would protect at-risk land from a recurrence. This scheme is advancing and is anticipated to be in place within 5 years.

Pending completion of these works, WDC has secured funding to manage the risk of an early repeat flooding event by purchase of temporary, removable flood barriers. This tender is under draft and a contract will be completed in early 2016.

Prior to completion of the main tender for supply of barriers it is necessary to have barriers available for use should a major flood event occur.

The Council cannot offer any local barrier storage facilities.

For clarity this quote is for the Interim Temporary Flood Barriers. The tender for Temporary Flood Barriers is being drafted. The Council intends to deliver the Permanent Flood Barrier project by 2020.

Additional information: The contracting authority considers that this contract may be suitable for economic operators that are small or medium enterprises (SMEs). However, any selection of tenderers will be based solely on the criteria set out for the procurement.