Fears glass barrier could be replaced with concrete

Residents and councillors fear that parts of a multi-million pound flood defence scheme made of glass could be replaced by concrete.

Five panels, costing £5,000 each, along the Hessle foreshore have been damaged by vandals since the project was completed in 2021.

Hessle town councillors posted on Facebook claiming the glass could be taken away if it continues.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council said "no decision" had yet been made about using other materials.

The tidal defence was designed after flooding caused widespread damage in 2013.

Vandals targeted the site twice in 2022 and three times last year, causing anger among residents who have described the damage as "pathetic and ridiculous".

Andrew Eavis, who has lived nearby for 45 years, said: "It would be a disaster to replace the panels with concrete and it would waste all the money they spent on trying to make it scenic."

"It's such a shame that a minority spoil it for everyone else," he added.

The 1,525ft (465m) concrete and glass structure was designed to prevent flooding while still allowing views of the river and the Humber Bridge.

David Nolan, councillor for the Hessle ward, said: "They're laminated glass panels so although they're not completely broken they do look unsightly and it's disappointing."

The East Riding of Yorkshire Council said the damaged panels would be replaced by contractors soon and were still structurally sound.

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