£13 Million Skinningrove Flood Alleviation Scheme Construction Underway

Initiation of a Major Flood Alleviation Project

The Environment Agency, in collaboration with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, has commenced work on a significant flood alleviation project in Skinningrove, with completion anticipated by 2028. This £13 million initiative aims to provide a sustainable solution to the flooding issues caused by Skinningrove Beck, safeguarding over 100 homes and alleviating the persistent disruptions faced by residents due to the village’s existing flood defences.

At present, the Environment Agency manages manually operated flood gates and demountable parapets at Stone Row Bridge whenever high water levels are predicted. Given the beck’s tendency to rise quickly and unexpectedly, these measures often require immediate action, leading to prolonged closures that restrict vehicle access for residents of Zetland Row and Grove Hill.

Improving Community Resilience

The new flood alleviation scheme is set to eliminate this uncertainty entirely. The existing Stone Row Bridge, alongside its flood gates and parapets, will be dismantled and replaced with a new bridge situated between New Company Row and Zetland Row, adjacent to the former Riverside Building, which served as the village school.

This new structure will be elevated above the current flood wall height, removing the need for flood gates altogether. Consequently, residents will benefit from uninterrupted vehicle access to their properties, irrespective of the conditions affecting the beck.

A Transformational Change in Flood Protection

Planning permission for the project was granted by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council in February 2026. Andrew Turner, the Flood Risk Operations Manager at the Environment Agency, remarked that the completion of this scheme represents a transformative advancement in flood protection for the Skinningrove community.

Turner noted that the new bridge will eliminate the need for manual operation of flood gates, thereby alleviating the disruptions and uncertainties associated with current flood management practices. Moreover, its elevated position means that debris carried along the beck during heavy rainfall will be significantly less likely to cause blockages, which have historically exacerbated flooding in the area. This long-term solution is set to significantly enhance the quality of life for local residents.

Phased Construction Process

The construction will be executed in two phases. The first phase will involve the construction of the new bridge, scheduled to take place from September 2026 until late 2027. This phase will see the installation of piled foundations and abutments on either side of the beck, followed by the placement of the new structure using a crane near the Riverside Building. During this period, a temporary access road will be established for residents of Grove Hill.

The second phase, which involves the demolition of Stone Row Bridge and infilling of the existing flood walls, is planned to take place from December 2027 to early 2028. The site for construction activities, including the compound and storage area, will be situated on the recreation ground between Mill Lane and the brook. The Environment Agency acknowledges the temporary closure of the local play park is unfortunate for the community but assures that it will be restored with improved facilities once the works are completed.

Community Engagement and Local Identity

The new bridge will also serve as a canvas for local identity, featuring artistic designs from Mick Kirkby-Geddes, the creator of the well-known Skinningrove: The Iron Valley sign. He has developed five original artwork concepts for the bridge railings, reflecting themes significant to the community, including Skinningrove bonfires, local murals, mining heritage, coastal life, fisheries, and wildflowers. The public will have the opportunity to participate in selecting the final design through an online vote.

Commitment to Minimising Disruption

Construction is being undertaken by BAM, which has committed to minimising disruptions for residents and the surrounding environment throughout the project’s duration. Working hours will be confined to 08:00–18:00 from Monday to Friday and 08:00–13:00 on Saturdays, with no work scheduled on Sundays or public holidays. To further minimise impact, large deliveries will be arranged outside of school hours, and strict environmental and noise control measures will be adhered to throughout the construction period.

For more detailed information regarding the construction plans and traffic management measures, residents can access the Environment Agency’s Engagement HQ page, where a comprehensive outline of the ongoing works is available.