Restoring Itchen Quays: Precision Repairs
Abigail Tomelty
18/11/24
The Itchen Quays, also known as Berths 30–36, were originally constructed in 1939 to accommodate dock cranes and freight trains operating along the length of the quay. Today, their primary use is the loading of new vehicles onto ships for export to international markets.
In 2023, an inspection by Ramboll revealed extensive spalling in the concrete structure, prompting Associated British Ports (ABP) to issue a tender for repair works. CRL was awarded the contract and is now in the final stages of a comprehensive concrete repair project on the underside of the berths.
In 2023, an inspection by Ramboll revealed extensive spalling in the concrete structure, prompting Associated British Ports (ABP) to issue a tender for repair works. CRL was awarded the contract and is now in the final stages of a comprehensive concrete repair project on the underside of the berths.
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This technically demanding project presents unique challenges due to the location and environmental conditions. The team has employed a specialized scaffolding platform, constructed from the seabed upward, to access the repair areas. The use of this scaffold is heavily influenced by tidal fluctuations, which limit working hours and add complexity to the project schedule.
Once the scaffolding is in place and the repair areas have been marked out, hydro-demolition is used to remove the damaged concrete, the exposed rebar is thoroughly cleaned and treated with an anti-corrosion primer, and sacrificial anodes are placed into the patches to negate the incipient anode effect. New concrete is then spray applied into the broken out areas to reinstate the original line & profile.
The site's proximity to Southampton Docks, one of the UK’s busiest ports, adds another layer of complexity. Operations must be carefully planned to minimize disruptions to cruise liners, cargo ships, and the frequent Red Funnel ferry crossings to the Isle of Wight.
CRL commenced this project in May 2024, and completion is anticipated by the end of November 2024.
This work represents a significant investment in preserving the infrastructure of Southampton’s iconic port, ensuring its continued service for years to come.
Once the scaffolding is in place and the repair areas have been marked out, hydro-demolition is used to remove the damaged concrete, the exposed rebar is thoroughly cleaned and treated with an anti-corrosion primer, and sacrificial anodes are placed into the patches to negate the incipient anode effect. New concrete is then spray applied into the broken out areas to reinstate the original line & profile.
The site's proximity to Southampton Docks, one of the UK’s busiest ports, adds another layer of complexity. Operations must be carefully planned to minimize disruptions to cruise liners, cargo ships, and the frequent Red Funnel ferry crossings to the Isle of Wight.
CRL commenced this project in May 2024, and completion is anticipated by the end of November 2024.
This work represents a significant investment in preserving the infrastructure of Southampton’s iconic port, ensuring its continued service for years to come.