As part of the official opening of the Broughty Ferry flood protection scheme, a new sculpture commemorating the lifeboat service was unveiled yesterday.
The public artwork takes the form of lifeboat davits, the arched cranes that hold emergency boats on larger ships, which create an archway which frame a view towards the life boat station.
On hand to help unveil the work, which also echoes the shape of the swans that are a regular feature of the area, were Mark Flynn convener of Dundee City Council’s city development committee, Robin Smith MBE former crewmember of the lifeboat Mona, and Peter Hay current coxswain of the Broughty Ferry lifeboat.
Cllr Flynn said, “It is crucial that we not only ensure effectiveness and value for money when delivering flood protection for our coastal communities, but also that any scheme is attractive and in keeping with the buildings and streetscape around it. The inclusion of relevant and engaging public art is part of that process and I am delighted to see the sculpture unveiled in its context today for the first time.”
Flood protection works started three years ago with the specification and design produced by Dundee City Council’s in-house structural and civil engineering teams, and the works delivered by McLaughlin & Harvey as part of the Scape Group National Construction Major Works - UK framework.
Seamus Devlin, McLaughlin & Harvey Civil Engineering Director, commented, “We are proud to attend this official opening of our flood protection works at Broughty Ferry. There has been a significant transformation to the local area and we have particularly enjoyed seeing members of the public enjoying the new walkway.”
The scheme is designed to reduce the risk of flooding to residential, open space, community and businesses within Broughty Ferry, as well as boost active travel, through works along Douglas Terrace, James Place, Fisher Street and Beach Crescent.
A number of community benefits were built into the contract including the use of local suppliers and creating job opportunities for local people.
The sculpture was designed inhouse by Dundee City Council, fabricated locally by Metaltech and installed by McLaughlin & Harvey.