The completed Mersey Warrington Flood Risk Management Scheme was officially opened on 26 January 2018 by EA Chief Executive, Sir James Bevan and Mayor of Warrington, Cllr Les Morgan.
Costing over £34 million, the scheme is one of the largest flood defence projects in northwest England which will significantly reduce the risk of flooding to over 2000 homes and businesses in Warrington and protect vital infrastructure contributing to the local and regional economy.
Axis formed part of the consultant team, with engineering consultants CH2M and Jacobs, advising the EA on the appraisal and delivery of the scheme for the last 7 years.
Axis role was to assist the EA in working with landowner and stakeholder organisations such as Warrington Council, Peel Holdings, United Utilities and the numerous community groups and residents affected by the scheme.
Axis prepared the initial Design Guidelines setting the overall design parameters and allowing regulators to appreciate the vision. Axis secured consent for the original hybrid planning application with accompanying ES covering the detailed design of Phase 1 and outline of Phases 2 & 3. Axis then secured detailed planning consent for later phases.
Axis helped to design significant public realm improvements for Knutsford Road and Victoria Park; nature conservation enhancements for Twiggeries; improved connectivity along the river through the provision of new cycleways/footpaths; and interpretation of heritage features.
Axis oversaw the environmental aspects of the construction and ensured that the initial environmental and landscape vision was realised.