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Ipswich tidal barrier gate

Ipswich has a long history of flooding both from high fluvial flows and surge tide effects, with more than 1,500 residential and 400 commercial properties currently within the risk area. The new tidal barrier gate will prevent surge tides and allow control of fluvial flow.

The scheme, which is being undertaken by VBA – the joint venture between VolkerStevin, Boskalis Westminster and Atkins, is now well underway. It involves the design, construction and installation of a 30m wide tidal barrier gate, construction of piled flood defence walls on either side of the barrier, a MEICA control building, the installation of mechanical and electrical equipment, flood gates on the east and west banks within the flood walls, scour protection and landscaping works. Once successfully completed, we will maintain the new tidal barrier for a further two years.

The main cofferdam has now been closed and a temporary diversion channel formed around the works. Work is progressing to install the foundation bearing piles which are up to 50m long to toe into the underlying chalk. The foundation tubes are being delivered by sea to the Port of Ipswich where they are loaded on to a barge for transport to site. Space is limited on the site so the barges double up as an additional material storage area.

The works also include collaboration with sister companies VolkerGround Engineering and VolkerBrooks.

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