Broads Authority trials new method of dredging
A ground breaking dredging trial which could cut costs for dredging on the lower reaches of the Broads begins at Great Yarmouth during the week beginning 10 April.
The £30,000 pilot scheme to remove 6,200 m³ of silt from the Bure will cost one third of the average cost of dredging projects in the Broads. The trial involves injecting low-pressure water into the riverbed sediment and fluidising the silt which will then be carried out to sea by the tide and gravity.
The technique has been patented by a Dutch company, Van Oord, who will be bringing a tug and dredger across the Channel to carry out the 10 day exercise.
They will be working night and day on every ebb tide between Bure Mouth, at its junction with the Yare, and the top of Bure Loop.
Waterways Manager Trudi Wakelin said: “This is an innovative solution which has produced excellent results elsewhere. We are hopeful it could prove to be a cost effective solution to the expensive and difficult task of disposing of the sediment and could be a major breakthrough for dredging the lower reaches of the Broads."
However, Mrs Wakelin said it was not likely to be a solution for the upper, shallower reaches where the tidal flow is not as great.
The navigation will remain open while the trial is in progress, although it will be slightly restricted.
The Broads Authority will be working closely with the Great Yarmouth Port Authority, English Nature, and the Environment Agency to monitor where the sediment comes to rest. The results will help determine where else the new technique might be used.
03/04/2006
