Project Overview
Aureos designed and constructed linear flood defences across 15 sites along both banks of the river Loxley from Malin Bridge to the confluence of the rivers Loxley and Don. The scheme was developed to reduce flood risk for the communities of Hillsborough, Malin Bridge and Owlerton in Sheffield.
The works included the construction of 1.5km of reinforced concrete retaining walls, the strengthening and raising of existing flood defences, installation of clay earthwork bunds, and construction of brick-clad flood walls. Working across multiple locations required careful coordination to minimise disruption while delivering long-term protection for local residents and businesses.
Sector:
Water
Region:
Yorkshire
Service:
Design and construction of linear flood defences
Client:
Sheffield City Council
The Challenge
Delivering flood defence infrastructure in a live river environment presented several unique challenges. During construction, an unrecorded badger sett was discovered beneath Regent Court car park within the proposed wall alignment, requiring a sensitive solution to protect wildlife while maintaining programme requirements.
The team also encountered difficulties when installing temporary river dams required for piling works. The original dam solution proved unsuitable due to the porous nature of the riverbed, which consisted of rock and pebble deposits rather than sand.
Our Solution
Working collaboratively with River Stewardship Company and Wildscapes Sheffield, Aureos developed an exclusion strategy that allowed badgers to leave the affected area safely while preventing their return, enabling construction to continue responsibly and in compliance with environmental requirements. The approach has since informed environmental management practices on future projects.
To overcome challenges associated with the riverbed conditions, the team adopted an innovative bulk bag dam solution that successfully facilitated piling and retaining wall construction.
Aureos also utilised the only vibration-free Giken clamp crane in Europe, helping to minimise noise and vibration impacts while reducing work-at-height risks during construction.
Delivering Sustainable Outcomes
Environmental stewardship remained a key focus throughout delivery. Aureos worked closely with the Environment Agency, Natural England and River Stewardship Company to programme construction activities in a way that minimised disruption to aquatic habitats and protected species. Ecological surveys and mitigation measures were undertaken to protect fish, bats, badgers, nesting birds and other wildlife throughout the project
The project team also introduced a hybrid power solution for site welfare facilities. In partnership with Aggreko, a traditional generator was replaced with a 55kW lithium-ion battery system, reducing fuel consumption by approximately 2.7 litres per hour compared with a standard generator setup.
