Marine Lake Exhibition Centre (MLEC)

In May 2025, VolkerGround Engineering (VGE) delivered enabling works for DSM on the MLEC project, a new multipurpose event centre being developed by Sefton Council, budgeted at £73m, on the site of the former Southport Theatre and Convention Centre.

VGE’s scope included design and construction of a 145.6 linear metre steel sheet piled retaining wall using AZ18-700 & AZ26-700 sheet piles and a reinforced concrete capping beam, integral to the permanent structure. VGE coordinated with multiple contractors prior to the demolition and the sheet piling contract being awarded separately to DSM.

VGE was involved at an early stage and identified possible obstructions along the pile line which were likely related to the formation of the Marine Lake during the late Victorian period. To reduce project risk and costs, probing was undertaken which identified the obstructions which were removed prior to mobilising the piling equipment to site.

Due to the close proximity of Southport Marine Lake, adjacent buildings and services, VGE implemented noise and vibration monitoring and used advanced equipment to minimise impact on residents and wildlife. Vibration concerns were also addressed through evidence of similar approaches on schemes.

The sheet pile wall and capping beam was designed as an integral system, requiring Approval in Principle (AIP) from local authorities. The designs were carried out in accordance with the relevant Eurocodes, and through discussion between AECOM and VGE. The client was able to adopt an option that negated the need for protective coatings due to corrosion, delivering cost and programme savings.

To undertake the works, VGE deployed an ABI TM20 leader rig and telescopic crawler crane.Working closely with AECOM, Sefton Council, and DSM on design, pile selection, and installation methodology.

Sheet pile stock was secured early to meet tight programme constraints, ensuring that once access was permitted works could be commenced promptly.

The piling platform level was agreed with the demolition contractor: this eliminated the need for imported material, with the leader rig offset from the pile line and positioned below existing ground level.

With the sheet piling and capping beam design and installation being managed by one team, it enabled a streamline delivery with no interface issues between activities. Given the need for two distinct sections of wall, a “transition pile” was introduced that would cater for both design cases and allowed installation to advance unhindered.

Despite logistical and environmental challenges, VGE successfully delivered the MLEC sheet piling works with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and collaboration. The project exemplifies VGE’s ability to integrate design, environmental stewardship, and construction expertise to achieve client objectives.