Nature-based canal sediment dewatering and hydraulic dredging in Scotland

Description of impact

The Suricates partners instigated the first large scale hydraulic dredging and nature-based dewatering of canal sediment in Scotland, at lagoon Locks on the Caledonian Canal in summer 2021

Who is affected

Scottish Canals, canal users, users of the A82

Narrative

The first full-scale application of hydraulic dredging in Scottish Canals was planned and facilitated as part of the Interreg NWE Suricates Project, using a novel, nature-based solution to receive and dewater the the pumped slurry. This approach avoided a significant number lorry movements and disruption to the A82 trunk road. The natural separation removed sand and coarser aggregates in a form suitable for use in concrete or tarmac, together with a finer soil-forming material which then met the BS3882 specification for low fertility top soil. The approach allowed continuous use of the canal by river traffic and leisure users during dredging.

Impact status	Open
Impact date	May 2021 → Jun 2021
Category of impact	Environment and sustainability - natural world and built environment, Economic and commerce, Quality of life and safety, Professional practice, training and standards
Impact level	Adoption