Protecting Aberdeen’s coastline: VolkerLaser delivers critical sea wall repairs
VolkerLaser was recently appointed by Aberdeen City Council to deliver repair and strengthening works to critical coastal defence infrastructure at Queens Links, Aberdeen, helping to safeguard the city’s coastline against the challenging North Sea environment.
Acting as design and build contractor, our specialist team developed and implemented a comprehensive repair solution for the deteriorated sea wall toe beam. The scheme included detailed structural assessment and design, concrete repair and strengthening works, installation of a Sacrificial Anode Cathodic Protection (SACP) system to enhance long-term durability, foundation repairs, and the reinstatement of concrete lining blocks that had been displaced and recovered following severe storm events in 2025.
Working within the constraints of a tidal environment presented significant challenges. To ensure repairs were completed in dry conditions and to maintain the highest quality standards, works were carefully planned and executed during short tidal windows. Rapid-setting, high-strength repair materials were selected to maximise productivity while ensuring the required structural performance and durability could be achieved within the available working periods.
Innovation played a key role in the successful delivery of the project. A bespoke access solution was designed and implemented, enabling operatives to safely undertake repairs on the inclined face of the sea wall during both falling and rising tides. This approach significantly improved access efficiency, reduced programme duration, and minimised disruption while maintaining the highest standards of safety.
This project demonstrates the breadth of VolkerLaser’s specialist capabilities combining structural refurbishment, concrete repair, corrosion protection, marine construction expertise, and innovative access engineering to deliver resilient infrastructure solutions in challenging environments.
“We are proud to have supported Aberdeen City Council in protecting this vital coastal asset and would like to recognise the professionalism, dedication, and collaborative approach demonstrated by our project team and valued supply chain partners throughout the successful delivery of the works.”
Tam Graham Divisional Director, VolkerLaser
Works were fully completed on time, including some additional scope, despite initial delays due to inclement weather.
