Modern coastal facility designed to support lifesaving operations, enhance crew efficiency, and provide engaging public access in a challenging marine environment.
Modern coastal facility designed to support lifesaving operations, enhance crew efficiency, and provide engaging public access in a challenging marine environment.
Client: RNLI
Value: £1.7m
Location: Selsey, West Sussex
Architect: Studio Four Architects
Contractor: Reside Construction
Awards:
Sussex Heritage Trust Awards - Public & Community category - Highly Commended
RICS South-East Awards - Community Benefit category - Winner
The RNLI Selsey Lifeboat Station replaces an outdated boathouse and pier with a modern, resilient coastal facility. Designed to accommodate both all-weather and inshore lifeboats, the development includes advanced launching systems, improved crew facilities, and visitor spaces. Positioned on an exposed stretch of the West Sussex coastline, the station responds to demanding environmental conditions. In addition to its operational function, the building incorporates public-facing elements such as an educational area and shop, strengthening community engagement and awareness of lifesaving work.
AWA delivered the structural design for the new station, working closely with the wider design team to achieve both performance and architectural ambition. A key feature is the curved glulam timber roof, creating a striking internal volume while efficiently spanning large areas. The structural system was chosen to withstand harsh marine exposure, with detailing and material selection ensuring durability and longevity. Integration with the launching and slipway infrastructure required precise coordination for seamless functionality between building and operational components.
The completed facility provides a significant upgrade in operational capability for the RNLI, improving response times and crew readiness. The project demonstrates AWA’s ability to provide engineering solutions for bespoke challenges while allowing architectural requirements to be met.
AWA Consulting Engineers is a structural, civil, and marine engineering consultancy established in 1987, with a hard-won but deserved reputation for delivering excellence in our profession.
Our philosophy is simple: we put people first. This has resulted in a high number of repeat clients and an impressive track record of successful award-winning projects. We are proud to be professional, and approachable; we believe this makes us the ideal partner for your project.
AWA has technical teams in our offices located in Romsey, Hampshire and Bath, Somerset. We deliver services to clients typically across the South, South East and South West.
Our team includes both chartered structural engineers and chartered civil engineers committed to continuous professional development ensuring you benefit from up to date industry expertise, whatever your project entails.
To find out more about how AWA Consulting Engineers can help with your project, get in touch today. Email mail@awaengineers.com and one of the team will be in touch. Alternatively, call 01794 524447 to speak to a member of our team.
Email us Call us
