£350k on new wave defences for Bridge Marina

Tuesday 28 January 2020

A new purpose-designed wave wall has been installed at St Sampson's Harbour, aiming to better protect the marina from the elements.

The new pontoons have replaced those damaged in a storm at the end of October 2019, where a combination of a very high tide and an easterly gale caused severe damage to the defences and one of the supporting piles on the Southside.

In total, Ports' Commercial Manager Doug Wright estimated the project cost around £350,000, and said the new wave walls had been designed by the supplier.

"This project’s completion was vital to protect St Sampson’s Harbour Marina," he said.

"The work involved a number of specialist Guernsey Harbours’ staff and third party contractors. We are extremely pleased with the new wave attenuating pontoon design. The St Sampson’s Harbour Marina is an important asset for Guernsey Harbours and holds 344 local vessel berths.

"The contractor and our Technical Services team have had to work in very challenging weather and marine conditions to complete the project. A huge degree of thanks is due to the team involved for their dedication and professionalism."

After the damage in October, Guernsey Harbours' divers carried out a full assessment of the damage, and that information was used by the suppliers to work up their replacement solution.

The new wave walls were installed recently in between tidal and weather slots. Guernsey Harbours' new workboat was used for the installation. 

Pictured top: Sarnia in action in St Sampsons Harbour.