Paul Hargreaves, head of discipline, surface water management (UK & Europe) at Jacobs Engineering, said: “We’ve enjoyed working with Wrekin on this project and we have been impressed with the level of ingenuity shown. In particular, the opening mechanism has been very well received.
“When unlocked, the cover rises with little effort on a spring-loaded strut, before pivoting and spinning clear of the opening. What’s more, the design has multiple benefits including one-person operation. It is also theft-proof due to the locking mechanism and the ornate stonework will not be damaged during operation.”
These works are the first phase of the scheme to improve water drainage in the town, with the aim of reducing the flood risk to more than 100 properties.
The amphitheatre was officially opened in October by Councillor Jeff Trail, chair of Devon County Council. Other project partners included the Environment Agency, East Devon District Council and Sidmouth Town Council.
This cover is the latest in a series of bespoke designs Wrekin has provided, such as a tribute to The Beatles, commissioned by Thames Water and placed next to the world-famous zebra crossing on Abbey Road, as well as a striking rainbow design dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community, installed in Reading, Swindon and central London.