Scarborough West Pier Regeneration
Overview
The regeneration of this historic West Pier in Scarborough is a pivotal part of the £20m Towns Fund awarded to Scarborough Borough Council in 2021. This initiative aims to breathe new life into the area by enhancing facilities and supporting the thriving fishing and lobster industry.
The project also focuses on modernising existing buildings and creating an inviting public space that reflects the town's rich marine heritage. Once completed, the regenerated pier will serve as a hub for retail, workshops, and the creative industries, while continuing its essential role as a working harbour.
Challenges and Solutions
The West Pier's regeneration presented several technical challenges due to its location on an existing pier with a complex mix of public and commercial activities. Here’s how our team tackled these challenges:
- High flood risk: situated near the sea, the area is classified as a High Flood Risk Zone. Our team carried out an extensive overtopping assessment and hydraulic modelling to ensure optimal flood protection and resilience. By adjusting surface levels and creating low points away from key structures, we were able to mitigate flood risks from both sea and surface water sources.
- Historic building conservation: with many structures located within the Scarborough Conservation Area, it was essential to retain the pier’s historical character. Our approach involved in-depth research, including archive exploration, to carefully restore and repurpose the existing buildings. We seamlessly incorporated modern upgrades while preserving key internal historical features.
- Structural engineering: designing a multi-storey storage facility next to the pier’s existing structures required precise engineering. We implemented a CFA pile and reinforced concrete beam solution to ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding buildings and pier walls. Collaboration with North Yorkshire Council and marine consultants was key to developing construction loadings that preserved the integrity of the pier.
MCA's Contribution
We have been at the heart of the West Pier regeneration since 2021. As NEC Project Managers, we have coordinated an expert multi-disciplinary team that includes architecture, quantity surveying, civil and structural engineering, M&E design, and CDM Principal Designer services. Our role also extends to stakeholder engagement, surveying, and developing BIM models for better planning and execution.
Key services include:
- Flood risk assessments and civil engineering solutions
- Architectural and structural design for retail and heritage elements
- Detailed analysis of heritage buildings to ensure the integrity of conservation efforts
- Development of a Green Book business case cost plan for sustainable and financially sound design decisions
Results
The Scarborough West Pier project has already achieved several significant milestones:
- Comprehensive flood protection strategies, including hydraulic modelling and flood resilience designs
- Successful retention of important historical features, integrating new functionality with old-world charm
- Development of modern storage and operational facilities that meet the needs of the harbour without compromising the historical integrity of the pier
Our innovative and collaborative approach ensures the West Pier will not only remain a key part of Scarborough’s working harbour but also evolve into a vibrant community space, reflecting the town’s proud maritime traditions while looking to the future.
