Repairing the North Pier at Sharpness Dock

The task in hand

The pier dates back to 1874, when the Dock was opened, and some of its mighty eleven-metre-tall greenheart legs are original.

As a gateway from the River Severn to the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal the pier is exposed to huge tidal pressures, and mainly submerged, so a regular programme of repairs ensures it is kept in top condition.

This year our engineers are using a spider crane to bring in massive greenheart oak planks which will be fixed in place by a team lowered down on ropes suspended over the muddy riverbed.

The pier – vital statistics

About Sharpness Dock

Sharpness is one of the most inland ports in Britain and the Canal & River Trust is the statutory harbour authority. Each month the Dock welcomes up to 25 ships bringing in supplies from mainland Europe for the UK's agricultural industry, and cement for the construction sector.