Project: Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme
Client: Kendal Town Council and the Environment Agency
Main contractor: VBA, a VolkerStevin, Boskalis Westminster and Atkins, Member of SNC Lavalin group joint venture
Installer: Flood Control International
Kendal, in southern Cumbria, has benefited from a multi-million-pound flood protection investment designed to safeguard homes and businesses from the destructive effects of flooding. A key feature of the scheme is the installation of high-performance glass panel flood walls within high-specification stainless-steel frames, creating visually appealing flood barriers that preserve the town's historic character and maintain important riverside views.
The first phase of the project included the installation of a 39-metre glass flood wall adjacent to Stramongate Bridge at the entrance to Gooseholme Park. This section forms part of approximately 6 km of flood walls and embankments delivered through the wider Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme. Additional flood defences have also been provided in Burneside, Staveley and Ings as part of the Environment Agency's phased programme.
The wider scheme includes flood storage areas and Natural Flood Management measures in the upper catchment to slow water flow, improve resilience and reduce flood risk. When fully implemented, the programme will reduce flood risk for more than 1,480 homes and 1,100 businesses across the area.
The innovative glass flood wall was developed through collaboration between Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, and Kuraray, a leading chemical and materials manufacturer. The overall flood protection system was engineered and installed by Flood Control International.
The bespoke flood wall incorporates alternating layers of glass and interlayer to create a 35 mm laminated structure. The outer panes comprise toughened Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning glass, while the central pane uses toughened 12 mm Pilkington Optiwhite™ high-clarity glass. The design was carefully developed to provide excellent visibility, minimise maintenance requirements and deliver the strength required to withstand a range of loading conditions, from everyday static forces through to dynamic and hydrostatic loads generated during severe flood events.
The glass panels underwent extensive strength testing and have been engineered to safely retain water and debris behind the barriers should river levels rise. Pilkington worked closely with its supply chain partners, including Kuraray, to provide the technical data and support necessary to achieve the project's demanding performance requirements.
Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning technology uses natural daylight to break down and loosen organic dirt on the glass surface, reducing the need for manual cleaning or harsh chemicals. Rainwater then spreads evenly across the coated surface, helping wash away dirt and maintaining clear views of Kendal's riverside environment and historic buildings.
The use of Pilkington Activ™ laminated with Pilkington Optiwhite™ provides both functionality and safety while preserving the appearance of the landscape. Kuraray's SentryGlas® interlayer contributes additional stability and clarity, ensuring that even in the event of fracture, the laminated glass maintains its structural integrity and resistance to the dynamic loads and impacts associated with floodwater and debris. The technology, originally developed to withstand severe hurricanes in the United States, is particularly suited to high-stress environments and flood defence applications.
The scheme was developed following the devastating impacts of Storm Desmond in December 2015, when 2,276 homes and businesses were flooded across Kendal, Burneside, Staveley and Ings. The Environment Agency, together with South Lakeland District Council, Kendal Town Council, professional partners and the local community, evaluated more than 60 potential solutions before selecting the preferred Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme in 2018. Planning approval was subsequently granted, with construction commencing in February 2021.
The project demonstrates how innovative engineering, specialist glazing technology and collaborative design can deliver robust flood protection while respecting the historic setting and visual character of a community. By combining advanced laminated glass technology, self-cleaning coatings and resilient structural design, the Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme provides long-term protection for residents and businesses while preserving the town's distinctive riverside landscape.
Tom McCormick, Flood Risk Management Scheme Advisor for the Environment Agency, said: “It can’t be understated how far all parties have gone to ensure that this project protects those vulnerable to flooding, while putting the community first.”
“A string of engagement talks, alongside a stringent planning process, has made sure that all community concerns have been taken into account. It’s been a pleasure to collaborate with conscientious partners as we work to safeguard Kendal, whilst ensuring the beauty of the town and its historic scenery are preserved.”
Jonathan Cornthwaite at Kendal Town Council said: “The Kendal Flood Risk Management Scheme will and already is proving beneficial for the local community. The safety of our residents is of the utmost importance to us, so the flood wall protecting the area’s most vulnerable whilst preserving the scenic beauty of our town is a welcome addition to Kendal’s riverbanks. And this is just the start – we’re looking forward to broadening protection further in the summer of this year with the next phase of this important community project.