Irish contractor lands £38m Derby flood defence deal

One of the Derby’s biggest infrastructure projects has moved a step closer, with Derby City Council awarding a £38m contract to John Sisk & Son (Sisk) to deliver the next phase of the Our City, Our River programme.

The package of works, known as Derby Riverside, will provide “significant” flood resilience protection to many properties along the left (east) bank of the Derwent from Causey Bridge to Derwent Bridge.

Sisk will be responsible for delivering a new flood wall and floodgates that will offer enhanced protection for Exeter House and properties on Meadow Road and Meadow Lane. The company will also carry out demolition of the riverside office blocks on Stuart Street to create a new riverside green area. This will provide more space for flood water to pass through the city in a controlled corridor.

Enabling works will begin shortly, with demolition and construction work due to start in May.

Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability, said: “These works are crucial as we continue to future proof the city against extreme weather and unlock the potential for regeneration along the river. We can now look forward to seeing work begin on site in the near future.

Alan Rodger, managing director – Sisk Infrastructure, said: “We understand how vital this project is for further flood prevention and the regeneration of this area in the centre of the city. Our team of dedicated professionals will leverage the latest innovations and sustainability practices to help deliver this fantastic scheme, alongside social value projects in the local community.”