ASEA Ecology Mitigation and Flood Defence Scheme

The Avonmouth Severnside Enterprise Area (ASEA) Ecology Mitigation and Flood Defence construction project aims to reduce the flood risk and protect vast communities along the 17 kilometres stretch of coastline near Bristol. In addition, this project will protect over 2,500 homes and create natural habitats for local wildlife in the area. It is hoped that with this added protection, the project will also encourage businesses to invest in the local area and create 12,000 jobs after it is completed in 2026. 

The sea defences will be an addition to the existing flood barriers already in place. These will help protect the area from the predicted increased risk of flooding as a result of climate change and rising sea levels over time. The new sea defences are expected to protect the area for at least the next 60 years. The project also includes plans to improve walking routes, making it easier for local residents and visitors to enjoy nature and beautiful views of the Severn Estuary.

This significant £80 million project is the largest of its kind in the region and is expected to be completed by 2026/2027. 

In addition to the flood defences, the project will also incorporate a wetlands habitat of at least 80 hectares for the Severn Estuary’s international bird species. 

Ecochoice was pleased to supply 240 responsibly sourced FSC-Certified Oak blocks that have been attached to the defence walls at various heights to attract different species of local wildlife. This timber was selected as an alternative to having a flat and smooth concrete wall. The 140 x 150 x 600 millimetre hardwood blocks have been attached along the concrete flood barriers to encourage the creation of microhabitats to allow wildlife to flourish. The wooden blocks are designed to provide shelter from the elements for a variety of smaller insects, attracting birds and reptiles to the area and increasing its biodiversity. 

The Oak we supplied for this project is from a responsibly managed forest in the Normandy region of France. Oak is well known for its durable, low maintenance and attractive qualities. It’s a strong timber that is often used in building and landscaping projects.

The versatility of Oak makes it the ideal timber for all weather conditions and it will withstand the test of time here along the newly installed flood defence walls. Oak is suitable for indoor and outdoor projects. It starts out as a malleable material that hardens over time. 

All timber supplied by Ecochoice for this project was responsibility-sourced from FSC-Certified Forests. So, when you buy products like ours that come with the FSC-Certified tick, you know that the tree has come from a well-managed forest. This ensures the forests are maintained and continue to grow for generations to come. All the timber sourced by Ecochoice is truly renewable and fully recyclable.