The Hirael Flood Protection Scheme in Bangor has been officially shortlisted for the Roy Edwards Award at the ICE Wales Cymru Awards 2025, recognising excellence in civil engineering projects under £5 million.
Delivered through a successful partnership between Cyngor Gwynedd, the Welsh Government, and contractor Griffiths, the scheme represents a major milestone in protecting the Hirael area from the increasing threat of coastal flooding driven by climate change.
A Timely and Targeted Response
The project began construction in May 2023 with work focused on key flood-risk areas such as the Dŵr Cymru pumping station, Glandŵr Road, and the Hirael promenade. A crucial milestone was achieved in November 2023, when the installation of a new 310-metre steel sheet pile sea wall was completed—raising the coastal defences by up to 1.5 metres.
The full scheme was substantially completed in early 2024, with an official opening event held on 24 May 2024. The final stage, including new public furniture, lighting, and landscaping, was finished in January 2025, rounding off a transformative upgrade to the waterfront area.
“We’re thrilled that the Hirael Flood Protection Scheme has been recognised at this level,” said a project spokesperson. “This shortlisting highlights not just the engineering excellence behind the scheme, but also the strong collaboration between government, local authorities, and the private sector.”
Protecting People, Enhancing Place
Funded through the Welsh Government’s Coastal Risk Management Programme, the project provides long-term protection for around 194 homes and vital infrastructure vulnerable to coastal flooding and tidal surges.
The scheme includes:
- A 310m steel sheet pile wall
- Raised promenade and roadway (by 1–1.5m)
- Flood gates and embankments
- Upgraded drainage infrastructure
- Improved pedestrian and cycle paths
- Enhanced public realm with benches, lighting, and planting
Crucially, the engineering design balances climate resilience with environmental and aesthetic sensitivity, creating a more attractive, accessible waterfront for both residents and visitors.
Celebrating Engineering Excellence
The Roy Edwards Award, named in memory of one of Wales’ most respected civil engineers, celebrates projects that demonstrate outstanding design, delivery, and community benefit. ICE Wales Cymru’s recognition of the Hirael scheme reflects its technical strength, innovation, and positive local impact.
Winners of the ICE Wales Cymru Awards will be announced at the annual ceremony this September, where the Hirael team will join fellow shortlisted projects from across Wales in celebrating civil engineering achievement.
“It’s an honour to be shortlisted alongside so many fantastic projects,” the spokesperson added. “We look forward to attending the ceremony and sharing what we’ve achieved with the wider engineering community.”
