Associated British Ports embarks on a significant dredging operation to enhance Lowestoft’s capabilities.
- The ambitious project will remove 170,000m3 of material to create berth pockets with a minimum depth of 7.5m.
- The dredging will enable the port to accommodate next-generation offshore support vessels, paving the way for a renewable energy hub.
- Key engineering support is led by Ayesa, focusing on re-engineering the quayside for enhanced operations.
- Completion is targeted for late 2024, marking a transformational milestone for the port and local economy.
Associated British Ports, in collaboration with McLaughlin & Harvey, has initiated a substantial dredging operation at the Lowestoft Eastern Energy Facility. The project aims to extract 170,000m3 of material, resulting in a minimal berth depth of 7.5 metres. This effort is intended to facilitate the docking of advanced offshore support vessels, which is anticipated to transform the port into a pivotal hub for the offshore wind industry.
The operation is underpinned by the expertise of Ayesa, the lead engineering consultant, tasked with significant re-engineering of the existing quayside. This development will ensure the port aligns with modern standards required to support the burgeoning renewable energy sector. The undertaking will eventually offer 350 metres of dock space, capable of accommodating three service vessels simultaneously, and provide a vast area of 3.2 hectares for storage and marshalling operations.
Funding for the project comes significantly from the Towns Fund, a governmental initiative designed to spur economic development in smaller communities. This investment affirms the strategic priority of establishing Lowestoft as a key player in the renewable energy landscape.
ABP’s regional director, Julian Walker, emphasised the strategic significance of the dredging project, highlighting it not just as an infrastructural advancement but as an essential investment for the future of Lowestoft and its energy sector capabilities. Additionally, the operations are being conducted with strict adherence to environmental standards as outlined in ABP’s marine licence.
The dredging work is carried out by the Boskalis Suction Dredger, Sospan Dau, supported by small survey craft ‘Sea Eagle’. These efforts follow previous work by grab dredger UKD Cherry Sand, ensuring the project remains on track for its 2024 completion goal.
The successful completion of this dredging initiative is set to solidify Lowestoft’s position as a key operational hub in the evolving energy sector.
