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Floating boom rental for Nuneham Viaduct
Published on 16 Jul ‘24
Floating Boom Rental for Nuneham Viaduct Project
Floating boom rental for Nuneham Viaduct project

The Nuneham Viaduct, spanning the River Thames near Abingdon in the United Kingdom (UK), faced a critical issue due to the progressive settlement of its south abutment. The ageing structure, combined with the nature of the floodplain material, necessitated an emergency response. As a result, our client TMS Ltd (Teignmouth Maritime Services), the projects’ in-water construction specialists, approached us to discuss the proposed rental option for a floating boom for the emergency reconstruction.

Solution selection decision

The scope of the in-water works for our client encompassed two primary objectives:

1. Installing temporary piles and a support system to lift and re-support the existing viaduct bridge deck above the compromised abutment.

2. Providing comprehensive in-water logistics and safety measures, including materials transport, pollution control, and collision protection for the in-river construction activities.

For collision protection, the client opted to rent Bolina Watercraft Safety Booms, anchored with 2.5-ton concrete anchor blocks. This choice was grounded in the boom’s proven performance under combined boat and barge impacts, common in the navigable Thames environment. The bright colour of the boom materials enhanced visibility, demarcating the works area effectively.

We proposed our rental solution as it provides peace of mind with its comprehensive end-to-end approach, reducing project management complexities. This sustainable option allows for reuse, promoting environmental responsibility. Moreover, it eliminates the need to hold stock or store, offering a project-specific, streamlined solution for the Nuneham Viaduct reconstruction.

To address the pollution control requirements, Ecobarrier Silt Curtains were selected due to their ability to contain both surface debris and suspended sediment in the water column.

Performance evaluation

The client encountered no significant challenges related to the marine barriers during the course of the project. The rented Bolina Watercraft Safety Booms were never put to the test by live traffic, likely due to their high visibility, making them easily avoidable by passing vessels.

Additionally, the Ecobarrier Silt Curtains proved highly effective in containing surface debris and suspended sediment. The stark contrast in water quality and turbidity inside the enclosed boom area compared to the surrounding river environment was evident throughout the project, the client mentioned.

Nuneham Viaduct project outcome

The deployment of the marine barriers for the Nuneham Viaduct emergency reconstruction project was a resounding success. Selecting Ecocoast’s barriers for collision protection and pollution control played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and environmental integrity of the in-water construction activities. The barriers’ high visibility and proven performance were instrumental in the project’s smooth execution, ultimately contributing to the project’s overall success.

Congratulations to our client TMS Ltd for receiving the European Commercial Marine Award for best marine civil engineering project 2nd year running, this year with this emergency project assisting Balfour Beatty! Source: Seaplant.

For more information about this project or our products, contact us at [email protected].

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FAQS

Floating booms are versatile barriers widely used across a range of environments to protect water bodies and infrastructure from pollution, debris and other hazards. Here are some of the primary locations and scenarios where floating booms are typically deployed:

  • Rivers, Lakes, Canals and Waterways: Booms are deployed in rivers and lakes to manage floating trash, logs, aquatic plants and invasive species, as well as to contain oil or chemical spills.
  • Coastal Areas: Along coastlines, they help protect beaches and sensitive habitats from pollution and debris, especially during storm events or industrial activities.
  • Ports, Harbors and Terminals: To contain oil spills, prevent the spread of floating debris and protect critical infrastructure from contamination.
  • Critical Infrastructure Sites: Including dams, hydroelectric power plants, reservoirs, weirs, intake and outlet structures, where accumulated debris can disrupt operations or damage equipment.
  • Specialized Applications: Security booms are installed to restrict access to high-risk or sensitive areas such as naval bases, power stations and airport runways.

Yes, floating booms can be used in fast-flowing or tidal waters, but the right type of boom and proper installation are essential. Specialized booms designed for strong currents and tidal changes, along with secure anchoring and deployment, help maintain effectiveness. Regular monitoring is also important to ensure optimal performance in these challenging conditions.

Our floating booms are engineered for exceptional durability and long-term deployment. Many Bolina booms have been in continuous use in the UK, with some installations still performing effectively after more than two decades in the water. This longevity is due to their robust construction and high-quality materials, which allows the booms to automatically adjust to changing water levels and withstand demanding environmental conditions.

Routine inspections and minimal maintenance help maximize their service life, but in many cases, Bolina booms require little to no maintenance even during long-term deployment. Their proven track record in challenging environments, including harsh winters and high-flow rivers, demonstrates why Bolina booms are a trusted choice for permanent waterway protection in the UK and worldwide.

In the Nuneham Viaduct Project, the floating booms were anchored using 2.5-ton concrete blocks. This robust method provided the necessary stability to keep the booms securely in place, even against strong river currents and potential collisions with boats or barges.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about our turnkey solutions! Our team of marine experts is ready to assist you.