The Port of Southampton has successfully concluded a significant navigation channel-widening project in its Western Docks, facilitating the passage of the largest container vessels alongside the largest cruise ships berthed in the port.
This marks the first major channel-widening initiative undertaken at the UK port in the decade. The project involved the removal of approximately 900,000m³ of predominantly clay-based material along a 2-kilometer stretch of the channel, resulting in a widening of 30 to 65 meters.
Over two years, the project was meticulously planned and executed by ABP Southampton's Engineering and Marine Teams. Extensive navigation simulation exercises were conducted to determine the necessary scope of work, while comprehensive geotechnical surveys provided insights into the nature of the material to be dredged and the appropriate dredging equipment to be utilized.
“This project is a considerable investment enabling the world’s largest vessels to enter the Port and support the UK’s import and export markets. It has been a very complex and challenging project to navigate due to the number of stakeholders and consenting requirements, as well as delivering the project through the winter with several significant weather events,” stated Andrew Hallam, ABP Southampton Programme Lead.
Divers were deployed to assess the seabed for historical unexploded ordnance and to safely recover marine debris such as anchors and tyres. Before the commencement of dredging operations, archaeological sampling was conducted. To minimize environmental impact, the dredging activities were restricted to the winter months, ensuring the preservation of the salmon migration route to the River Test.
“The container vessels coming into Southampton are the largest in the World, carrying up to 24,000 containers. This programme enables the safe navigation of these huge vessels and supports the UK container handling capability. Our thanks are extended to all those involved in the project,” added Steve Masters, Southampton Harbour Master.
