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Walkers stranded after heavy storms

Friday, 6 January 2012

Engineers assessing the damage to the promenade in Portrush caused by the recent high tides.

SEVERE winter storms have taken their toll on Portrush's brand new promenade.
Health and safety concerns prompted the closure of the walkway between Arcadia and East Strand after an already damaged section deteriorated under heavy ocean swells last week.
The council finally unveiled the £1.1m revamp of the promenade linking the town to its beach in June 2011.
The project which includes lighting, street furniture, landscaping and a public art installation celebrating the resort's maritime heritage was by then six months behind schedule.
The scheme was jointly funded by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and Department for Social development, with a £270,000 contribution coming from Coleraine Borough Council.
On December 21 powerful waves and extreme tides further damaged a section of steps between the Water Sports Centre and the Arcadia.
According to the council, engineers acted quickly to assess the damage and took measures to close the steps.
Temporary barriers lasted only a few days as winds reached gale force over the Christmas break.
Further 'substantial damage' was caused last week by spring tides and a deep North Atlantic depression which sent 6m swells and 80mph winds to the Causeway Coast.
As a result the promenade between the Water Sports Centre and the Arcadia has been closed to the public.
A council spokesperson said it would remain closed for the foreseeable future.
“Council officials have been in daily contact with the engineers who led the environmental improvement scheme at East Strand," added the spokesperson.
“It is too early to suggest the cause but the safe passage of pedestrians on the promenade remains the priority before measures are taken to stabilise the structure.
“Further updates will be provided as soon as solutions are developed."
The East Strand project was initially delayed by a number of 'design and operational factors' including the need to carry out additional structural work in the area now closed after weakness in existing reinforcement was uncovered.
Further delays resulted from wrangles between officials, engineers and contractors over the solution.
Extreme weather conditions at the end of 2010 caused major disruption to the construction process.
Unveiling the project last summer, Minister Nelson McCausland said: "This public realm scheme has transformed the area around the East Strand promenade and provides a very attractive setting for visitors from across the world to enjoy."

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