10.12.2007

Causeway up the Creek

The Port of London Authority has spent £145,000 improving river access for fishermen and boaters at Holehaven Creek.

Engineers have built a new timber causeway at Canvey Island in Essex, making it safer for river users to reach the water.

The port authority took action after weather had weakened the original structure, last rebuilt in 1988, and the tides caused mud and silt to build up around it.

The authority's contractors Land and Water Services Ltd and subcontractors Teignmouth Marine Services built the new causeway alongside the first, and then removed the original once work was done.

Dave Nicol at Holehaven Causeway

PLA construction superintendent, Dave Nicol said: "By leaving the first causeway in place, we kept access open for boaters while work was underway.

"The new causeway's not only safer, but it's also higher than the original, keeping it clear of the mud.

"The work was finished before over-wintering birds arrived, so we managed to keep disruption to the environment, as well as boaters, to a minimum."

The project was completed on time and in budget.

Notes for editors

• The Port of London Authority is responsible for navigational safety and related matters on 150km (95 miles) of the tidal Thames from Teddington to the sea
• Photos available on request from Martin Garside, PLA. Tel: 01474 562366 or Email