The award was presented at the Hilton London, where more than 1,000 leaders from across the civil engineering and infrastructure sectors gathered to celebrate the industry’s outstanding businesses, projects and people.

This national recognition is particularly meaningful as Kaymac celebrates its 50th anniversary. Since the company was founded in Swansea in 1976, we have grown from a small team of commercial diving specialists into a multidisciplinary marine and civil engineering contractor delivering complex projects throughout the UK.

Recognising excellence and innovation

The Specialist Contractor of the Year category recognises businesses demonstrating technical excellence, innovation, strong performance and a clear commitment to their people and clients.

Kaymac’s submission highlighted the significant progress made across the business, including our continued growth, investment in specialist skills, directly employed workforce and ability to develop practical engineering solutions for challenging marine, tidal, underwater and confined-access environments.

The NCE judging panel commented:

“Kaymac Marine and Civil Engineering clearly demonstrated how it is delivering a step change in performance through a passionate and charismatic submission and presentation. The judges extend their congratulations on this award and on Kaymac’s 50th anniversary in business this year.”

Business Development and Marketing Director, Rhiannon Crees-Moore, presented Kaymac’s submission to a panel of industry judges before returning to the stage to collect the award on behalf of the company.

Rhiannon said:

“To be named Specialist Contractor of the Year is an incredible honour and one that means so much to everyone at Kaymac.

“Preparing the submission and presenting our story to the judges was both exciting and nerve-racking, but I knew I was representing an exceptional team and a business with an amazing history.

“This award belongs to everyone at Kaymac. It reflects the skill, commitment and determination our people demonstrate every day, often while working in some of the most difficult environments in the industry.”

A proud moment in our 50th year

Winning this award during Kaymac’s 50th anniversary year is a fantastic recognition of both our heritage and the progress we continue to make.

Our success has been built on the dedication of our employees, the support of our clients and supply-chain partners, and a shared determination to solve difficult engineering challenges safely, sustainably and effectively.

We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to Kaymac’s journey over the past five decades. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together—and even more excited about what comes next.

The official winners’ list and judges’ comments are available on the NCE Awards 2026 website.

Congratulations, Team Kaymac!

The post Kaymac Named Specialist Contractor of the Year at the NCE Awards 2026 first appeared on Kaymac Marine.

We are proud to announce that our Operations Director, Jeff Lippiett, has been awarded Fellowship of the Institution of Civil Engineers (FICE), one of the highest professional accolades within the engineering industry.

This prestigious achievement recognises not only Jeff’s outstanding technical expertise and leadership but also his lifelong commitment to the civil engineering profession and the development of the industry as a whole.

Jeff’s Fellowship marks the culmination of a remarkable career spanning more than three decades with Kaymac. Having joined the company in 1991, Jeff is the longest-serving member of our team and has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth from a specialist diving contractor into the nationally recognised marine and civil engineering business it is today.

Over the years, Jeff has helped deliver some of the most challenging marine and civil engineering projects across the UK, providing technical leadership, operational excellence and unwavering dedication to both our clients and our workforce.

His passion for engineering, commitment to quality and determination to continually improve have earned him the respect of colleagues, clients and industry peers alike.

A Testament to Commitment

Fellowship of the Institution of Civil Engineers is awarded to senior professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, responsibility and influence within the engineering sector.

For those who know Jeff, this recognition comes as no surprise.

His dedication to Kaymac has been evident throughout his career. Having spent more than 35 years contributing to the success of the business, he has helped shape the company culture, mentored countless engineers and operational staff, and driven the high standards that Kaymac is known for today.

Jeff’s achievement reflects not only his personal commitment but also the values that underpin Kaymac as a business: investing in people, developing talent and striving for excellence in everything we do.

“I have had the privilege of working alongside Jeff for the past 17 years, having joined Kaymac as a graduate engineer and developed my career under his guidance and leadership.

Jeff brings a unique combination of practical experience and engineering expertise. Before joining Kaymac, he worked extensively in the offshore diving industry, undertaking challenging subsea projects around the world, including in Sri Lanka. That hands-on experience has given him a depth of knowledge and understanding that is difficult to replicate and has undoubtedly contributed to the success of countless projects throughout his career.

Throughout my time at Kaymac, Jeff has been a mentor, colleague and friend. His commitment to the business, our clients and our people is second to none. He leads by example, always willing to share his knowledge and support others in developing their careers.

Many people say they are committed to a company, but Jeff truly lives and breathes Kaymac. His dedication, loyalty and passion for engineering have helped shape the business we are today.

Fellowship of the Institution of Civil Engineers is a tremendous achievement and one that is thoroughly deserved. Everyone at Kaymac is incredibly proud of Jeff and grateful for the contribution he has made to the company over the last 35 years.”

Rhys Colcombe BEng(Hons) MSc MCIOB CEng FICE – Projects Director, Kaymac Marine

Looking to the Future

As Kaymac reaches its 50th year in business, Jeff’s Fellowship provides another milestone in the company’s history and serves as an inspiration for the next generation of engineers joining the industry.

His career demonstrates the impact that passion, hard work and dedication can have over the course of a lifetime in engineering.

Everyone at Kaymac would like to congratulate Jeff on this well-deserved achievement and thank him for his outstanding contribution to the company, our clients and the wider civil engineering profession.

We look forward to seeing his continued influence on the future success of Kaymac and the industry for many years to come.

The post Kaymac Operations Director Achieves Prestigious ICE Fellowship first appeared on Kaymac Marine.

April 2026

Kaymac Marine & Civil Engineering has successfully delivered urgent stabilisation works at Newydd Bridge in Trecastle, following appointment by Powys County Council to address critical structural concerns affecting this essential rural crossing.

Responding to an Urgent Infrastructure Challenge

Newydd Bridge had been significantly impacted by a combination of environmental and structural issues. A substantial accumulation of debris within the watercourse, coupled with failure of the bridge’s cutwater and evident riverbed scour, posed an immediate threat to the structure’s stability and public safety.

Swift and decisive action was required to prevent further deterioration and enable the safe reopening of the bridge to the local community.

Rapid Mobilisation and Immediate Intervention

Kaymac’s team mobilised quickly to site, implementing a coordinated programme of emergency works to stabilise the structure.

Initial activities included:

• Removal of large volumes of debris from the watercourse
• Installation of temporary stabilisation measures, including strops and bracing
• Protection of the failed cutwater using membranes and geomesh
• Securing necessary permits from Natural Resources Wales

These early interventions ensured the bridge was made safe while longer-term engineered solutions were developed.

Delivering Engineered, Long-Term Solutions

Following site clearance, our team undertook detailed investigations, including trial holes to assess riverbed conditions. With no bedrock identified, a tailored scour protection solution was designed and installed.

This included:

• Submerged rock bags to stabilise the riverbed
• Layered rock mattresses to reinforce and protect the cutwater
• Integrated tying systems to ensure long-term resilience

All works were carried out within a live water environment, demonstrating Kaymac’s expertise in delivering complex marine and riverine engineering solutions.

Supporting Safe Reopening of the Bridge

In addition to permanent remedial works, Kaymac designed and installed a temporary works solution to facilitate the controlled reopening of the bridge.

A key element of this solution was the installation of an RMD Megashor modular propping system beneath the central pier, providing essential structural support to the bridge deck and beams.

This enabled:

• Immediate load relief to compromised structural elements
• A safe platform for future permanent repair works
• Controlled reopening of the bridge under restricted traffic conditions

Temporary traffic management measures, including width and weight restrictions, were also implemented to ensure continued public safety.

Demonstrating Agility, Expertise and Delivery

This project highlights Kaymac’s ability to respond rapidly to emerging infrastructure challenges, combining in-house engineering expertise with practical, efficient site delivery.

From emergency stabilisation through to the implementation of engineered temporary works, our team delivered a seamless end-to-end solution under challenging conditions—ensuring the protection of a vital community asset and enabling its safe return to service.

Read more about the project here

The post Rapid Bridge Stabilisation Works in Powys first appeared on Kaymac Marine.

As coastal environments face increasing pressure from climate change, ageing assets, and growing demand for infrastructure, the role of marine civil engineering has never been more critical. From long sea outfall installations to port upgrades and coastal protection, delivering durable, future-proof solutions is essential.

At Kaymac Marine & Civil Engineering Ltd, we specialise in providing marine construction services in the UK, supporting clients across the Transport, Ports and Harbours, Energy and Nuclear, and Water Infrastructure sectors.

The Growing Demand for Marine Infrastructure in the UK

The UK’s coastline is home to vital infrastructure that supports industry, communities, and environmental protection. However, many marine assets—including Bridges, outfalls, quay walls, and jetties—are now reaching the end of their design life.

This is driving increased investment in:

• Marine infrastructure repair and maintenance
• Coastal defence and resilience projects
• Port and harbour upgrades
• Energy and Nuclear infrastructure developments

Asset owners are no longer looking for short-term fixes. Instead, they need long-lasting marine engineering solutions that can withstand harsh offshore conditions for decades.

Why Specialist Marine Contractors Matter

Marine construction is a highly specialised field. Unlike land-based projects, working in tidal zones and subsea environments requires:

• Expert diving teams
• Specialist marine plant and equipment
• Detailed planning around weather and tidal constraints
• Strong health, safety, and environmental controls

As an experienced marine civil engineering contractor, Kaymac brings decades of expertise to complex projects across the UK.

With our origins as a diving contractor in 1976, we have developed a deep understanding of subsea operations, allowing us to deliver safe, efficient, and high-quality marine construction services.

Expertise in Long Sea Outfall Installation and Replacement

One of Kaymac’s core specialisms is long sea outfall installation and replacement—a critical component of wastewater infrastructure.

These projects require precision at every stage, including:

• Seabed preparation and trenching
• Pipeline installation and jointing
• Ballasting and stabilisation
• Testing and commissioning

By combining technical expertise with practical experience, we deliver reliable outfall solutions that protect the environment and ensure long-term performance.

A People-First Approach to Marine Construction

At Kaymac Marine & Civil Engineering Ltd, our people are central to our success. As a family-run marine contractor, we are proud of our low staff turnover, which allows us to retain knowledge, maintain quality, and mentor the next generation of engineers.

This continuity enables us to build strong client relationships and consistently deliver high-quality marine engineering projects.

Supporting the Future of Marine Infrastructure

As investment continues across ports and harbours, Energy and Nuclear, and coastal infrastructure, the need for experienced marine contractors is growing.

Kaymac Marine & Civil Engineering Ltd remains committed to delivering innovative, sustainable, and resilient marine civil engineering solutions across the UK.

Whether supporting critical infrastructure upgrades or delivering complex subsea installations, we are helping to shape the future of the marine environment.

The post Marine Civil Engineering for Resilient Coastal Infrastructure first appeared on Kaymac Marine.

The Kaymac team will be attending two major UK infrastructure industry events this March – Bridges 2026 in Coventry on 11 March and Rail Infrastructure Networking (RIN) London on 12 March. These leading conferences bring together professionals from across the bridge engineering, rail infrastructure, and civil engineering sectors to explore innovation, collaboration, and the future of critical infrastructure delivery.

With increasing investment in transport infrastructure, bridge maintenance, and rail network upgrades across the UK, events like Bridges and RIN provide valuable opportunities for contractors, asset owners, and solution providers to share knowledge, strengthen industry relationships, and discuss upcoming projects.

As a specialist marine and civil engineering contractor, Kaymac looks forward to connecting with infrastructure professionals, discussing industry challenges, and exploring how our experience delivering complex projects can support the future of bridge and rail infrastructure across the UK.

Kaymac to Attend Leading UK Bridges and Rail Infrastructure Events

March will see the Kaymac team attending two key infrastructure industry events, connecting with professionals across the bridge engineering and rail infrastructure sectors. We’re looking forward to joining industry leaders, sharing expertise, and exploring opportunities to support future projects at Bridges 2026 in Coventry on 11 March and Rail Infrastructure Networking (RIN) London on 12 March.

These events provide valuable platforms to discuss innovation, collaboration, and the evolving challenges facing the UK’s transport and infrastructure networks.

Bridges 2026 – Shaping the Future of Bridges | Coventry | 11 March 2026

Kaymac will be attending Bridges 2026, a leading industry conference focused on the future of bridge infrastructure, engineering innovation, and asset management.

This year’s theme, “Shaping the Future of Bridges,” highlights the complex and often challenging journey of introducing change across the bridge sector. From procurement and design through to construction and long-term bridge maintenance, the conference will explore how the industry is adapting to new demands.

Sessions will focus on how innovation, collaboration, and adaptability are transforming the way bridge projects are delivered and maintained, helping infrastructure owners deliver safer, more sustainable, and cost-effective bridge solutions.

The event brings together a diverse mix of professionals including:

• Local authorities
• National infrastructure organisations
• Bridge engineers and designers
• Contractors and specialist solution providers

By bringing together key decision-makers and technical experts, Bridges 2026 creates a valuable forum for discussing the future of bridge engineering and infrastructure resilience across the UK.

Rail Infrastructure Networking (RIN) London | 12 March 2026

The following day, the Kaymac team will be attending RIN London – Rail Infrastructure Networking, the UK’s largest rail infrastructure trade show.

RIN events are designed to bring the rail industry together, providing a platform for professionals to build relationships, share knowledge, and explore new opportunities across the rail infrastructure sector.

With thousands of rail professionals attending, the event attracts:

• Tier 1 contractors
• Rail infrastructure buyers
• Suppliers and specialist contractors
• Project leaders and decision-makers

Interest in the London event has been exceptionally strong, with all exhibitor stands now sold out, highlighting the importance of the show within the rail infrastructure calendar.

RIN provides a valuable opportunity for organisations to connect with key stakeholders, strengthen industry partnerships, and support the delivery of future rail infrastructure projects.

Meeting Industry Partners and Exploring New Opportunities

Attending both Bridges 2026 and RIN London gives the Kaymac team the opportunity to engage with professionals across the bridge, rail, marine, and civil engineering sectors.

With extensive experience delivering complex marine and civil engineering projects in challenging environments, we’re always keen to collaborate with industry partners to support the delivery, maintenance, and renewal of critical infrastructure.

If you’re attending either event, we’d be delighted to connect and discuss how Kaymac’s expertise can support your upcoming projects.

We look forward to seeing you there.

The post Bridges Conference 2026 and RIN London first appeared on Kaymac Marine.

Kaymac Marine is pleased to welcome Rhys Curtis back to the team following the successful completion of an intensive 20-week commercial diving course in Scotland. Rhys has been with Kaymac Marine for two years, and during this time, he has become a strong civil team member, undertaking several courses and obtaining certification, including CSCS, Cat & Genny, 360 Excavator, Forward Tipping Dumper and Confined Space Training, making him a real asset to our team. His return marks an exciting milestone in both his personal development and Kaymac’s ongoing investment in future talent as part of our multiskilled dive team.

Rhys undertook his training at the Professional Diving Academy (PDA), one of the UK’s leading commercial diver training centres. Located in Dunoon, on the west coast of Scotland, the academy is renowned for producing highly skilled, safety-focused divers ready to work in demanding marine environments.

The course ran from 6 October to 12 December 2025 and represented a significant commitment, both in time and investment. While no formal qualifications were required for Rhys to enrol on the programme, the course itself is widely recognised as one of the most rigorous entry routes into commercial diving in the UK.

During the 20 weeks, Rhys completed a comprehensive blend of classroom learning, practical training, and real-world diving scenarios. On successful completion, he achieved an impressive suite of industry-recognised qualifications, including:

• HSE Professional SCUBA
• HSE Surface Supplied
• HSE Surface Supplied (Top-Up)
• PDA Chamber Operator
• PDA First Aid at Work, including AED (Diving Endorsement)
• PDA Oxygen Provider (Diving Endorsement)
• PDA Commercial Nitrox

These qualifications equip Rhys with the skills required to safely support and carry out a wide range of commercial diving operations, from inshore inspections to more complex marine construction and maintenance works.

Unlike many trainees, Rhys did not attend college before his diver training; instead, he focused on becoming a multi-skilled operative with our civils teams before fully committing to the PDA programme. This immersive approach reflects his commitment to building a long-term career in the marine sector and aligns closely with Kaymac Marine’s ethos of developing capability from within.

Kaymac has a long-standing history of investing in its people, supporting individuals through specialist training and qualifications that strengthen both personal careers and the company’s collective expertise. Rhys’s achievement is a clear example of this approach in action.

Now back with the team, Rhys will begin applying his newly gained knowledge and certifications on real projects, working alongside Kaymac’s experienced diving and marine delivery teams. His progression not only enhances Kaymac’s in-house diving capability but also reinforces the company’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled marine professionals.

We congratulate Rhys on completing such a demanding course and look forward to seeing him continue to grow and contribute to Kaymac Marine’s future success.

The post Commercial Diving Training Complete first appeared on Kaymac Marine.

As 2025 draws to a close, we’d like to take the opportunity to reflect on another strong year for Kaymac Marine & Civil Engineering Ltd. and to thank our clients, partners and, most importantly, our people for their continued support.

Following an exceptionally successful 2024 — marked by the delivery of our largest project to date, the Eastman Long Sea Outfall Installation — 2025 began at a steadier pace in terms of site activity. However, momentum built consistently throughout the year and we’re proud to say it has been another successful and rewarding year for the business.

A Year of Steady Momentum

Throughout 2025, Kaymac continued to deliver complex marine and civil engineering projects while strengthening long-standing client relationships and securing new opportunities. While site operations experienced some quieter periods, our office teams remained exceptionally busy.

Over the course of the year, we reviewed and considered 297 tender opportunities and successfully delivered 192 projects across a wide range of sectors. This level of activity reflects both the resilience of our business and the depth of expertise across our teams.

Investing in Our People

As a family-run business, our people remain at the heart of everything we do. In line with our 2025 Business Plan, we continued to invest in employee wellbeing by introducing new benefits, including Group Life Insurance and a Health Shield Cash Plan, providing added peace of mind and everyday healthcare support.

Training and development also remained a key focus. During 2025, our teams completed 109 formal training courses, alongside extensive on-the-job learning and mentoring. This ongoing investment ensures skills are shared, standards are upheld and future talent continues to develop within the business.

We were also pleased to welcome several new starters during the year, further strengthening our capability across diving, civils and apprenticeship roles.

Awards, Recognition and Industry Standing

The year began on a high when Kaymac was named Innovative Business of the Year at the Swansea Bay Business Awards, recognising our commitment to pioneering solutions in marine civil engineering and commercial diving.

Later in the year, we were proud to be shortlisted as Specialist Contractor of the Year at the prestigious NCE Awards in London. While we didn’t take home the trophy, being named a finalist is a testament to the progress, dedication and professionalism of our entire team.

Giving Back to Our Communities

Supporting the communities where we live and work remains a core part of Kaymac’s identity. Between November 2024 and November 2025, we supported 35 corporate social responsibility initiatives, with a total investment of £14,593. These included local clubs, charities and community projects, many with personal connections to our team members — reinforcing the strong values on which the company was built.

Celebrating Our Kaymac Stars

One of the highlights of the year is recognising individuals who consistently go above and beyond. Our Kaymac Stars of 2025, nominated by their peers, represent the reliability, teamwork and pride that underpin our reputation.You can see all of our Stars on LinkedIn.

We’re incredibly proud of every individual recognised this year, including our Kaymac Stars of the Year, whose mentorship and commitment to developing the next generation exemplifies the best of Kaymac’s culture.

Looking Ahead: Supporting Future Growth

As part of our long-term growth strategy, we’re pleased to share that we are in the final stages of purchasing new office premises at 3 New Mill Court, Swansea Enterprise Park, with plans to move early in the new year.

The new offices will provide improved facilities, increased workspace and dedicated meeting rooms, supporting recruitment, training and collaboration. While our workshop will remain in its current location for now, this investment reflects our confidence in Kaymac’s future and our ongoing commitment to creating the right environment for our people and clients.

Season’s Greetings from Kaymac

As we close out 2025, we’d like to thank everyone who has supported Kaymac throughout the year. We wish our clients, partners and colleagues a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, successful year ahead.

Whatever you’re doing over the festive period — relax, recharge and enjoy 🎄

The post Christmas 2025: A Year of Progress at Kaymac Marine & Civil Engineering first appeared on Kaymac Marine.

Kaymac Marine & Civil Engineering has commenced essential scour repair works at Glan-yr-Afon Bridge in Dwyriw, Llanllugan, after being appointed by Powys County Borough Council to address significant erosion affecting the northern abutment. The bridge, an important local access point, has experienced progressive scour caused by years of flowing water undermining the structure. Without timely intervention, the stability of the bridge—and the safety of those who rely on it—would have continued to deteriorate.

The project, scheduled over a five-week programme, represents a considered and technical response to a complex challenge within a confined river environment. Kaymac’s specialist teams, including civil engineers, marine operatives, and commercial divers, are working collaboratively to restore the structural integrity of the bridge while ensuring environmental protection remains at the forefront of all activity.

Why the Work Is Needed

Scour is one of the leading causes of bridge failure across the UK, particularly in rural areas where structures are exposed to fast-flowing water and shifting riverbeds. At Glan-yr-Afon Bridge, localised erosion had compromised the northern abutment, weakening its foundations and increasing the risk of further deterioration.

Powys County Borough Council recognised the need for a robust, long-term solution, commissioning Kaymac to deliver a repair strategy that would stabilise the structure, prevent future scour and erosion, and ensure the continued safe use of the crossing.

How Kaymac Is Delivering the Solution

The project is being delivered through a carefully sequenced programme designed to protect both the structure and the surrounding watercourse. Key elements of the works include:

• Installation of environmental protection controls, such as Sedi Mats, hay bales, bio-oil plant, and waterproof membranes, in line with SEPA’s Engineering in the Water Environment guidance.
• Localised fish rescue and aquatic protection measures prior to any in-channel works.
• Excavation of the riverbed to allow for the installation of a temporary shuttering system.
• Construction of a reinforced underwater concrete apron to protect the abutment from future hydraulic action.
• Placement of rock rolls and rip-rap to manage flow direction and reduce scour risk.
• Rebuilding of the private masonry wall and reinstatement of the drainage system.
• Low-pressure grouting behind the abutment to fill voids and stabilise the structure.
• Removal of the existing propping system once repairs are complete.
• Full reinstatement of the access track and working area following demobilisation.

Throughout the works, multiple safety and quality hold-points ensure that each stage meets strict engineering and environmental standards before progressing.

Protecting the Local Environment

As with all in-channel projects undertaken by Kaymac, environmental stewardship is central to delivery. The team is implementing pollution prevention controls, safeguarding wildlife habitats, preventing invasive species spread, and working closely with the client to minimise environmental impact during the construction phase.

Learn More About the Project

This scheme highlights Kaymac’s technical capability in delivering complex scour remediation and structural protection works across the UK. To explore the full project spotlight—including diagrams, methodology, and engineering detail—visit:

👉 https://www.kaymacmarine.co.uk/projects/glan-yr-afon-bridge-scour-repair/

The post Scour Repair Works at Glan-yr-Afon Bridge first appeared on Kaymac Marine.

Kaymac Marine was honoured to be shortlisted for one of Wales’s most prestigious civil engineering awards, recognising the team’s work on the £8.4 million Eastman Long Sea Outfall Replacement Project.

We were proud to have been nominated for the George Gibby Award at the ICE Wales Cymru Project Awards 2025, which celebrate excellence in Welsh civil engineering.

The George Gibby Award recognises projects that demonstrate outstanding design and construction, valued at over £5 million. Named in honour of George H. Gibby (1923–2010) – a highly respected ICE member who first proposed the idea of an awards scheme to celebrate civil engineering – it remains one of the industry’s most respected accolades.

Recognising Engineering Excellence

Our nomination celebrated the successful delivery of the £8.4 million Eastman Long Sea Outfall Replacement Project, completed in 2024.

This complex marine civil engineering scheme involved replacing an ageing outfall system that safely discharges treated effluent into the Bristol Channel. The project provided a long-term, resilient solution that ensures environmental compliance and supports ongoing operations for our client.

Overcoming Challenges at Sea

Delivered in a challenging coastal environment, the project required detailed planning, innovative engineering, and close collaboration between our in-house marine civils, diving, and project delivery teams.

Tidal restrictions, unpredictable weather, and the need to protect local marine habitats were just some of the challenges our teams successfully navigated. Through careful coordination and the use of specialist marine construction techniques, we ensured the works were completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.

Collaboration and Sustainability at the Core

Collaboration and sustainability were at the heart of the project’s success. Working closely with the client, stakeholders, and environmental regulators, we ensured that every phase met strict environmental and engineering requirements.

Our in-house diving capability was key to delivering critical underwater works safely while minimising environmental impact and disruption to operations.

Celebrating Welsh Civil Engineering

Although we didn’t take home the George Gibby Award this year, we’re incredibly proud to have been recognised alongside some of Wales’s most impressive engineering projects.

Huge congratulations to the winners of the George Gibby Award – A465 Heads of the Valleys (Dowlais to Hirwaun), submitted by Future Valleys Construction. The project is a remarkable achievement and a worthy winner, showcasing the very best of Welsh civil engineering innovation and delivery.

We’re proud of our team’s work on the Eastman Long Sea Outfall Replacement Project and grateful to have our efforts acknowledged by the Institution of Civil Engineers.

Congratulations once again to all of this year’s nominees and winners – together, we’re helping to shape the future of civil engineering in Wales.

🔗 View the full list of ICE Wales Cymru Project Award winners

The post ICE Wales Awards 2025: Nominated for the George Gibby Award first appeared on Kaymac Marine.

When a culvert within a tidal river in Swansea partially collapsed, Swansea City Council called upon us to deliver an emergency response. The failure not only threatened local drainage infrastructure but also caused a large sinkhole to open beside a popular cycle route, creating an immediate public safety risk and forcing the route’s closure.

The culvert carries surface water from a wide catchment area, meaning heavy rainfall events could have rapidly worsened the situation. With tidal conditions, unstable ground, and restricted access all in play, the project demanded rapid mobilisation, innovative engineering, and careful management of safety and environmental risks.

The Challenge

The site presented multiple technical and safety challenges. The partially collapsed culvert posed a constant threat of further collapse, while the tidal river created narrow working windows and unpredictable water levels. Access to the failure zone was highly restricted, with no conventional safe working area available.

Weather conditions also presented an ongoing risk, with rainfall capable of increasing flows through the damaged structure and hindering progress.

The Solution

To stabilise the structure and create safe working conditions, Kaymac implemented a bespoke temporary works and flow management system.

Downstream, the Kaydam system was deployed to withstand tidal forces and create a dam within the river, creating a dry working area. Upstream, a temporary dam and over-pumping system diverted flows away from the work zone.
A custom modular steel access and support system, designed with Kingswood Engineering, enabled safe entry into the collapsed culvert for inspection, debris removal, and repair works — all while minimising the risk of further failure.

All works were meticulously phased, allowing for continual reassessment in response to weather and tidal changes.

Environmental Collaboration

Given the environmental and heritage sensitivity of the site, Kaymac worked closely with Natural Resources Wales and HENEB to secure the necessary approvals before commencing work. Regular updates, inspections, and open communication ensured the project met all environmental and heritage requirements throughout.

The Outcome

Despite challenging site conditions and a tight 10-week programme, the project was completed on time, within budget (£650,000), and without safety incidents. The culvert was successfully stabilised and returned to full functionality, and the sinkhole repaired — allowing the adjacent cycle route to safely reopen to the public.

Client Feedback

“Swansea Council were extremely impressed with the professionalism and efficiency demonstrated by Kaymac Marine Limited during the recent Morfa culvert repair project. The project was completed on time and under budget, which is a testament to their meticulous planning, skilled workforce, and commitment to excellence. Their communication throughout was clear and proactive, ensuring all stakeholders were kept informed and aligned.”
– Paul Retallick, Team Leader – Bridges and Structures, Swansea Council

Delivering Under Pressure

This emergency response highlights Kaymac’s ability to deliver technically complex civil engineering works under extreme conditions. Our team’s expertise in tidal working environments, bespoke temporary works design, and collaboration with statutory bodies ensures critical infrastructure remains safe, operational, and resilient.

🔗 Read the full project details here

The post Emergency Response to Culvert Collapse first appeared on Kaymac Marine.