Ports & Infrastructure
Pier & Lighthouse Repairs
PORT OF TYNE, TYNE & WEAR
Multi-million-pound project to repair extensive damage to the Port of Tyne’s North Pier, South Pier and Herd Groyne structures, following Storm Babet in October 2023. The storm caused the loss of the South Pier lighthouse dome and navigational light, along with significant damage to parapet and seawall sections.
Client: Port of Tyne
cost
£4.5M
duration
2 Years
Project Management
Cost Management
Employer's Agent
The Opportunity
Repairs were divided into two phases across 2024 and 2025 to align delivery with suitable weather and tidal conditions. The scope included reinstatement of damaged seawalls and paving, full refurbishment of the South Pier lighthouse, and repair of paving at the Herd Groyne. Temporary safety measures were installed immediately after the storm to maintain safe operations until permanent works could commence.
The Challenges
The three structures are located separately across the Port estate, with both piers extending into the North Sea. The exposed conditions offered only limited seasonal and tidal windows for access, requiring specialist marine plant and detailed planning for lifting operations, including reinstatement of the lighthouse dome. The Grade II-listed status of both piers also required close liaison with the local authority and heritage specialists throughout design and delivery.
The Outcome
Works to all structures were successfully completed, restoring full operational capability. On the North Pier, repairs reinstated the seawall, pavement lights, resin screed and handrailing. On the South Pier, a 60-metre section of seawall was rebuilt, and the lighthouse fully refurbished internally and externally, with new finishes, electrical systems, dome and navigational light. The project safeguarded the Port’s key assets and strengthened resilience against future storm events.