The complex inter-relationship between natural forces and man-made structures means that the design and planning of a waterside development has to be viewed in a wider context than for a purely land-based scheme. Environmental risk factors – such as flooding, pollution, ecological damage and riverbank erosion – can have a significant impact on the feasibility and whole life costs of a project, and sensitive planning is needed to meet strict statutory requirements.
A restored riverine environment often forms the ‘backbone’ of urban regeneration schemes, where remedial works are carried out to protect and enhance the natural water resources on a site. Restoration of local waterways can involve improving water quality and in-channel flow as well as remodelling the land/water interface to provide river walks, parkland and enhanced wildlife habitats. On contaminated land, a key concern is the maintenance of flood protection to control ground and water pollution.
Buro Happold’s in-depth assessments help clients minimise their water risks and make the most of their water benefits. Our sustainable river engineering solutions encompass a wide range of hydraulic control and protection structures, including walls, culverts, locks, gates and weirs. We always adopt an environmentally responsible and holistic approach, balancing ecological concerns with the often conflicting demands of water supply and other categories of water use, such as leisure, agriculture or navigation.
Flooding in particular plays an important role in shaping the environment – previous development on flood plains has put as many as 2 million properties in the UK at risk of flooding. We have extensive experience in designing and maintaining both ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ fluvial flood defences, from bank strengthening and earthworks to channel modifications and attenuation reservoirs. Flood Risk Assessments (FRAs) are carried out to identify the level of risk from coastal, fluvial and urban flooding.
Buro Happold’s water team has the expertise to design, advise on and monitor all water-related issues from the outset of a project, offering a full range of technical and management services from analytical modelling and in-channel design to strategic planning and construction supervision. As part of our commitment to develop the science of water engineering still further, we invest in an ongoing R & D programme and maintain close links with leading academic institutions.
