After years of calling for investment in flood defences in Kinmel Bay, Clwyd West MS Darren Millar is delighted that work is now underway and recently made a site visit to meet workers and find out more about the project.
The Ruthin-headquartered company Jones Bros were appointed by Conwy County Borough Council, to deliver the £13m development which involves around 80,000 tonnes of rock armour, sourced from North Wales quarries, being procured and imported to strengthen the current revetment between Towyn and Kinmel Bay.
Jones Bros will also raise just under 2km of existing sea wall by 500-750mm and replace two floodgates as part of plans to minimise the impact of turbulent weather and associated coastal flooding.
Darren said:
“I am thrilled that these much-needed works are finally underway.
“Residents in the area regularly receive flood alerts because of the inadequate defences, so having them in place will give them peace on mind that their homes are protected.
“As someone whose family home was hit by the floods in Towyn all those years ago, I am aware of the devastating impact that flooding has on communities.
“It is not nice living in fear every time bad weather hits, which is why I repeatedly pushed for these defences over the years.
“I am extremely pleased that the work finally got underway before Christmas and that it is being carried out by such a reputable local company.
“I have every faith that Jones Bros will do an excellent job and will complete the work within the allocated timescale.
“It was great to meet the workers on site to gain a greater understanding of how the defences will be constructed and to find out more about the enhancements they will provide to the seafront, including improved beach access, car park upgrades, and the installation of street furniture.
“Completion is scheduled for spring 2026 and I very much look forward to seeing it all done.”
Jones Bros is set to have up to 50 staff, including apprentices and trainees, across the scheme, as well as an information cabin in place on site to keep the local community updated.
Jones Bros project manager Sam Roberts said:
“It’s only too evident that there is a real need for improvements to be made to the coastal defences.
“We as a company know that it’s a development of real significance, especially with 95 per cent of staff currently on the scheme calling North Wales home.
“We’ve got vast experience in the sector having worked across both the region and the wider UK, so our expertise can benefit the community.
“As with every project we undertake, we will be liaising closely with the local people, as well as utilising the supply chain that is on our doorstep.”
