Premier Falmouth Marina in Cornwall is undergoing major expansion and as part of the project, a solution was sought to sustainably manage over 32,000 tonnes of contaminated sediment from the harbour area.

A technical team from 4Recycling were brought in to assess the quality and potential land recycling options for the dredgings, based on in-situ core samples taken from the Marina.

Analysis demonstrated that the dredgings had low levels of metals and good soil properties, making it an ideal material for restoring local china clay quarries. After consultation, the Environment Agency authorised use of the material for restoration.

4Reycling is now working alongside specialist contractor Land & Water Services to manage the contaminated sediment and recycle it. The dredging project will increase the size and capability of the marina.

Premier Marinas’ managing director, Pete Bradshaw, said: “We just knew there had to be a better solution than landfill – and anyway, landfill tax would have meant that the project was not viable. The project has meant that we have in some small way contributed toward the restoration of the old China Clay sites.”

Maxine Perella

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