Dover Western Docks Revival

Dover, UK

Project synopsis

Tender, outline and detailed design of major infrastructure project at the Port of Dover, incorporating integrated temporary works design.

Contractor

VolkerStevin Boskalis Westminster JV

End client

Dover Harbour Board

Awards

CEEQUAL Excellent

Tony Gee was responsible for concept and detailed design associated with the £115m Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) scheme for VolkerStevin Boskalis Westminster JV to provide a new cargo terminal, distribution centre and transformation works to the public waterfront. Services provided included the design of a new 550m long public access pier, design of a 120m long navigation access structure including lock gates and bascule bridge, temporary works design and independent checking of quay walls and heavy duty pavement.

Project Summary:

DWDR is one of the largest port development projects within the UK and as the single biggest investment by the Port of Dover a flagship scheme for both the port and town. The marine civils works were a key element of successfully delivering the new cargo facility and enhanced public waterfront and included :

  • Over 2km of combi-piled quay walls and associated hardstanding
  • 1.2M m3 of dredging
  • 900,000 m3 of reclamation
  • 550m long new marina pier
  • Creation of a 240 berth marina
  • 120m long new navigation access incorporating full tide lock
  • Mitre and sector gates
  • 15m span bascule bridge
  • Service diversions and upgrades
  • Public realm enhancements

New Marina Pier

The New Marina Pier is supported 90No. 1.8m diameter tubular piles with pairs of AZ24 sheet piles installed between each to form a wave wall for the new marina. This involved piling into unstructured and structured chalk of variable quality and working closely with the site team to validate pile capacities.
The Marina Pier design was developed with VolkerStevin to ensure a solution which was buildable within the shortest timescale taking cognisance of the environmental conditions including wave, wind and the 7m tidal range.

Navigation Access

The new navigation access includes a lock and 120m cut through existing beach, highway, hardstanding and grade II listed dock walls. Pairs of sector and mitre gates provide vessels with full tidal access to the Wellington Dock and the hydraulically operated lifting bascule bridge provides critical vehicle and pedestrian access across the structure.
Phased construction of the navigation access was required to enable service diversions to be undertaken without disruption to private and public users, including those serving the Eastern Docks ferry terminal. Interfaces between the new navigation access and the existing highway and grade II listed dock walls and adjacent historic structures were given careful consideration in developing the design solution.

Environmental, Sustainability and Social Values

Tony Gee led the design and construction teams to ensure sustainability and environmental aspects were paramount in key decision making leading to a CEEQUAL Excellent rating which exceeded the targeted very good rating.
The DWDR scheme contributed over £150m to the local community with approximately £47,000 invested in community initiatives. Tony Gee supported the community engagement with STEM activities at a local primary school.