Slipway at Havelet is finally reopened
HAVELET slipway has reopened after four years.
The popular slipway close to Castle Cornet initially sustained damage in the 2014 storms and repairs were conducted. But in November 2018 it again bore the brunt of force 10 winds and large waves, leading to serious cracks appearing, and capstones falling onto the beach, forcing the structure to close.
Guernsey Ports confirmed the long-awaited reopening yesterday.
‘The repairs were originally tendered in 2019, but the project was postponed in early 2020 due to the risks to funding and contractor availability because of Covid-19,’ said a Guernsey Ports spokesman.
‘The works were competitively retendered in late 2021, following which Geomarine was appointed. The design incorporates reinforced concrete slabs with both steel and fibre reinforcement. The slabs are tied into the slipway and main sea walls via stainless steel dowels.
‘Stainless steel mooring cleats have also been embedded with the reinforced concrete for boat users.’
One reason for why the work took so long was the fact the area is tidal, which restricted when work could be carried out.
‘Careful planning was therefore required to schedule when specific repairs could be undertaken,’ the spokesman said.
‘The main works were undertaken over the summer to minimise the risks of delays due to storms.’
To help users, a textured finish has been applied to the concrete surface of the slipway to minimise the risk of slippages.
Additional works to enhance the foundation protection to the base of the slipway wall will be undertaken by Guernsey Ports’ maintenance team in January 2023.
That is weather-dependent, so dates have not been finalised, but it is anticipated this will take between five and 10 days, during which time the slipway will be closed to the public.
