Background

The installation of a new linkspan bridge for the St Helier ferry terminal required the removal of a large outcrop of granite rock.

Scope of Works

The old Linkspan which acted as a ramp to load vehicles on to the ferry had to be removed and upgraded to a new structure.  The new linkspan was repositioned and a large section of granite bedrock had to be removed whilst taking account of the operations of a busy harbour.

Solution

The client arranged for the existing linkspan to be lowered down onto a floating pontoon and taken away.  WM Plant Hire then mobilised a 65 tonne long reach excavator with underwater breaker and rock wheel mounted on the Doreen Dorward barge from Jenkins Marine.  GPS computer technology enabled the exact profiling of the granite whilst underwater and allowed the positioning of the new linkspan.  The works were carried out around the tide and the shipping zones, to maximise productivity and minimise disruption to the harbour.