Porthcawl Harbour Sediment Sampling

As a part of an ongoing regeneration project surrounding Porthcawl Harbour, Bridgend County Council plan to redevelop the harbour itself and at the request of the Council, Soil Environment Services Ltd were commissioned to sample, test and report on the harbour sediment in order to calculate the scope of works required for sediment removal. Focus has been on the potential contamination which may exist in the sediment.

Development proposals include lock gates that will be installed over the existing entrance sill to prevent the harbour drying as the tide recedes. To provide the required depth within the harbour in order for this to happen, it is proposed that sediments are dredged to 1.5 m below their current level.

Soil Environment Services were required to determine the extent of any contamination of the harbour sediments and provide the information necessary for a FEPA License for the disposal.

Sampling took place on a grid pattern and on two occasions of the sediment from the surface and at dredge depth. Testing of metals and hydrocarbons was undertaken. Sampling protocol followed the Marine Motoring organisation, (MMO), OSPAR, CEFAs action levels and FEPA guidelines.

All equipment was taken into the harbour at high tide

Low tide allowed augers to be used

Soft sediment areas were sampled from the boat

Cool box storage

All equipment was removed by boat