Location
Yalding, Kent
Client
Environment Agency
The two independent canoe platforms had to be built simultaneously, within an accelerated programme to enable the works to be completed before the river level, which had been artificially lowered, was reinstated to its natural navigation depth.
One platform was constructed by excavating into the riverbank, and reducing the sheet pile wall to suit. The platform was of concrete construction, with a timber decked frame at the waters edge to provide a safe and comfortable finger hold to enable canoeists to pull themselves out of the water. The structure was finished with hand packed gabion baskets, and Douglas Fir timber handrailing.
The second platform was constructed of large Oak walings & cross beams, supported on 7m long timber piles. The piles were not driven, but installed by way of pre-augering the holes using an excavator mounted hydraulic auger. This was carried out at low water, using bog mats to support the machine, and a truck mounted crane to drop in the piles. This was a much more economical method of installation, compared with driving the piles in the more traditional fashion. The structure was finished with red angelim timber decking, with finger holds either sides for easy access.
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