'Landmark' reached in Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme

Contractors VolkerStevin have finished the second phase of installing new glass flood panels in the town centre.

The installation at Waterside is part of a multi-million-pound project aimed at protecting more than 1,920 homes and over 2,250 businesses in Kendal and the Upper Kent area.

The panels, spanning 577 metres throughout the scheme, use specially designed self-cleaning glass and are framed in high-specification stainless steel.

These have been developed in partnership with Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, and Kuraray, a chemical and materials manufacturer.

Flood Control International manufactured the slimline steel frames.

Richard Knight, the Environment Agency’s Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager for Cumbria, said: “The completion of this section of the Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme is a key milestone.

"During construction we faced a number of challenges, working riverside over the winter months had its risks, but the most complex element was being able to identify a piling solution that would successfully drill into the rock.

"This was fundamental to creating the foundations needed for the glass panelled flood wall.

"The benefit of our works not only reduces flood risk but also strengthens the historic original riverside wall.

“The installation of these specialist glass panels is a very visible part of the flood scheme.

"We have been able to use glass technology specifically for Kendal to ensure protection, retain views of the river and provide a defence which requires low maintenance for the community.”

The glass used in the walls is a custom build and the panels are installed on flood walls clad in natural stone from a local quarry designed to match Kendal’s historic architecture.

Residents, councillors and project partners marked the milestone on March 5, with afternoon tea at Waterside Café, which had closed several times to allow construction to take place.

Leo Pyrah, Head of Commercial for Pilkington UK, said: "This project has been centred on collaboration and innovation, ensuring we deliver a solution that enhances flood protection for Kendal while remaining sensitive to the town’s landscape and heritage.

"Our work with Kuraray has enabled us to provide a self-cleaning glass solution capable of withstanding harsh, year-round conditions, without compromising on transparency or aesthetics.

"We’re proud to see the first stage of the flood defences now complete and to know the local community can continue to enjoy Kendal’s historic riverside with added peace of mind."