One of the most famous docks on the Tyne is being filled in to create more space for the development of the port.
The Port of Tyne Authority are creating just over 13 acres of operational land by infilling the 150-year-old Tyne Dock using the dredged material from the New Tyne Crossing project.
The port authority’s chief executive Andrew Moffat said: “Last year, the port was approached by Bouygues Travaux Publics, the contractors of the second vehicle tunnel, who explained their plans to dredge the Tyne as part of the construction process. We talked to them about how they could recycle the spoil from the construction of the tunnel by using it to infill Tyne Dock.
“After exploring various options, it was agreed that this was not only environmentally sound but also a far more effective way for both parties to progress.”
Soil is to be pumped direct into Tyne Dock from the trench that is to be dredged for the new tunnel. The dredging has been brought forward from November and was due to start last month, using a cutter suction dredger.
More on this and other news in Sea Breezes Magazine - October 2009 Issue