Weston-super-Mare Sea Defences

13,000m²granite paving along Weston seafront

We worked for Birse Coastal as paving and stone masonry contractor on the £32m Weston sea defence scheme. On site for over two years, our role grew continually from the early stages through to completion.

Paving

• Over 13,000m² of granite paving along Weston seafront, 60mm Chinese granite in varied lengths, widths, colours and finishes, all laid to strict ratios to meet the vision of project artist John Maine RA

Walling

• Cladding and coping to the new engineered secondary splash wall, over 2km long, with Blue Lias to the seaward face, reclaimed Mendip Limestone to the landward face, and Caithness sandstone copings
• Restoration and rebuilding of Victorian walls using traditional materials and methods

Seating

• Over 30 seats installed, from Limestone and Portland stone blocks to finely crafted multi-piece granite seats, including a special artistic piece at the ‘Waves’ slipway

Result: A multi-year package on a flagship coastal scheme, where consistent quality earned an expanding scope.

The relationship between Birse Coastal and EJ McGrath at the Weston-super-Mare Sea Defence and Seafront Enhancements project began in 2007. From a small order for some masonry work, the relationship has continually grown, culminating in a significant subcontract order for complex paving and masonry over the length of the 2km-long seafront. EJ McGrath has demonstrated a commitment to quality and safety at all stages and has made a significant contribution to the success of the project.

Chris Hill, Project Manager, Birse Coastal