Conversion Of A Commercial Dock For Use ByLeisure Craft

Abstract

Port Managers and Engineers around the world must consider the best means and methods to maintain, or preferably increase, income while satisfying the changing requirements of their customers. Since the early 50's commercial vessels have increased in size and capacity. This has resulted in a growth in the number of deep-water berths. To be a valued asset such facilities require a major investment, however, the traditional impound docks are the losers in these developments due to the associated reduction in demand from smaller commercial vessels. This reduction in use results in a commodity that is uneconomical therefore removal of the risk is inevitable. But the removal of an impound dock is an expensive option and difficult to justify financially. Throughout the UK a number of redundant commercial docks have been converted to marinas for leisure craft by providing associated ancillary services together with constructing a new entrance and installing new lock gates. At the Port of Dover, Granville Dock is an impound dock that has recently been converted to satisfy the needs of leisure craft. This conversion was achieved with a surprisingly low financial investment. This paper considers the options open to the Port Management and the methods adopted to satisfy the needs of the future users of the marina. Items such as the availability of experienced skilled craftsmen and the statutory health and safety aspects of a pair of modified mitre gates for the Port Management are discussed. The completed entrance gates have allowed the conversion of Granville Dock to operate as a successful anchorage for leisure craft.