THE first sections of the new flood defence wall along West Kirby promenade are now in place in the first phase of the work.

This represents a significant milestone for the project and will see parts of South Parade gradually reopening fully to traffic and pedestrians as each phase of construction of the wall concludes.

By early January, the aim is to have the wall in place along more than half of the promenade – four of the eight distinct ‘areas’ identified in the project plan, covering the stretch from Riversdale Road to Church Road.

The whole scheme, which includes highways improvements and other associated benefits, is scheduled to be completed in the first part of 2023.

The new 1.1km long, 1.2m high, curved wall is designed to act as a barrier protecting South Parade and properties situated on it – as well as neighbouring streets and beyond - from potentially damaging flood waters, which are an increasingly likely occurrence because rising sea levels and storms as a result of climate change.

READ > Wirral Primary School Choir win competition to perform at Chester Cathedral

The design of wall itself was finalised after consultation with residents and will resemble a ‘wave’ with a continuous curve containing seating, memorial or celebratory plaques - including replicas of those previously in place on the promenade. Timber slats will be added to the seating towards the end of the contract.

There will be gated access points providing pedestrian crossing points and car parking spaces will be re-provided. The scheme also includes an upgraded public realm, including new paving and highway resurfacing along South Parade.

The two Victorian shelters which were removed to accommodate the building of the wall will be replicated as part of the completed scheme, with the aim of using materials from the original structures where possible.

A refurbishment of the site of Old Baths opposite Hilbre Court, near to the RNLI lifeboat station, will allow for the creation of a new public performance and exhibition space and provide a new attraction on the promenade for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.

A new dedicated cycle lane will be created too, while the outdated street lighting network along South Parade, that was becoming increasingly unreliable, will be upgraded with new LED lighting columns being installed.

Cllr Liz Grey, Chair of the Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee for Wirral Council, said: "This is an important phase of the flood alleviation scheme as it gives a glimpse of what the finished article will look like and shows people living in the area – and those who visit regularly – that the project is nearing the finishing straight.

"People have been incredibly patient and understanding since work started in June and I hope they will be happy with the outcome when the works finish next year.

"Whilst this is a flood prevention scheme first and foremost, officers and the specialists who have supported the council and Environment Agency in the development and delivery of the plans have been mindful that the end result also needed to bring additional improvements to - and blend in with - the existing promenade and this is what is happening. It is exciting to see it taking shape."