At the Regional Forum prior to the Annual Dinner of the British Stainless Steel Association (BSAA), held on 9 November 2006, the Director, Mr Nigel Ward reminded delegates of the growth opportunities for use in the UK and reviewed the latest activities of the BSSA to promote and support development of the market. He highlighted the opportunity for stainless steel reinforcement in the rebuilding of the UK’s infrastructure, citing as an example the proposed coastal flood defence programmes required particularly for the east coast of England, threatened by projected sea levels rising by up to 40cm by 2040. Other potential applications for stainless could include tidal barrages with several potential locations around the UK. Bridge refurbishment on motorways also presented an opportunity for stainless steel, providing better corrosion resistance to de-icing salts. Mr Ward confirmed that during 2007, the BSSA is planning to host a conference exploring infrastructure applications further and would continue to promote the use of stainless steel through seminars and workshops, providing help and advice through its Stainless Steel Advisory Centre.
