14 December 2011
For the first time in 23 years, a major refurbishment project is currently underway at La Collette Marina, St Helier. A major element of the scheme, which is due to be completed by early April 2012, involves replacing the old marina pontoon system.
The work was commissioned following a condition survey, which found that the existing pontoons had a number of significant failures and in time, for safety reasons, would require closure of sections of the marina. Furthermore, the cost of upkeep and maintenance had become uneconomical and failure to repair them would result in loss of income for Jersey Marinas as they would be forced to reduce the number of pontoons available. As well as replacement of the old pontoons other improvements will include better lighting and safety equipment as well as refurbishment of the access arrangements and gate.
Support for the refurbishment programme among the Jersey marine leisure community has been positive and Jersey Marinas are grateful for their co-operation and support in helping them to achieve the temporary relocation of vessels.
Group Commercial Director for Jersey Airport and Harbours Myra Shacklady said the future benefits will outweigh the current inconvenience that may be caused. She said "In the short term Jersey Marinas will benefit from a reduced maintenance burden and in the long term we will have an asset that stretches beyond 20 years. The improvements will enable Jersey Marinas to offer our customers a product and service in line with today’s marine leisure industry demands and expectations."
Following a tender process, Southampton-based manufacturers, Walcon Marine, is supplying and installing the pontoons as there are no similar manufacturers in Jersey. The company is calling upon local resources to assist with the project, including equipment and crane hire as well as transport, disposal and recycling.
Wherever possible, rather than simply scrapping the old pontoons, efforts are being made to recycle the materials, which include the separation of timber decks, floats and steel frames. The timber will be re-used and the scrap value of the steel will have a modest financial benefit to the project.
A project budget of up to £700k has been allocated, monies for which come from Jersey Marinas trading fund. The work has been timed to take place over the winter period so as to cause the minimum of inconvenience and to be completed in time for the start of next summer’s boating season.
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