Cardiff Bay Barrage Research Articles

“At night they glow red with fire”: tracing the environmental impact of industrialisation in travel accounts of Merthyr Tydfil, 1848–1881

One would be forgiven for overlooking the fact that Cardiff is a city with a waterfront. Large-scale civil engineering projects such as the Cardiff Bay Barrage have obscured the Welsh capital’s rel...

Affect and Dialogue in Collaborative Cross- Disciplinary Research: Developing Interactive Public Art on Cardiff Bay Barrage

Abstract Where Cartesian philosophy distinguishes the perceiving and perceptual mind from the body, phenomenology constitutes the experiential/experiencing body as the subject, giving rise to the affective potential of art. An immersive world of digital connections, smart cities and the Internet of Everything dramatises the centrality of relationship, the intertwining of Self and Other, in the lived environments of human experience. This article addresses the contextual, disciplinary and practical challenges encountered in developing an ambitious interactive public art project embedding SMART technology on the coastal fringes of Cardiff, the capital city of Wales (UK). It examines the processes and problems involved in delivering a stimulating aesthetic experience in and on a complex site, for a complex audience profile. It traces, in particular, the dependence of a multi-disciplinary project team on the theoretical and practical effects of affect in their ongoing effort to produce engaging, provocative, socially inclusive interactive public art, in and through human-centred design techniques.

A case study of evidence for showing ‘no net loss’ of bird biodiversity in a development project

AbstractGiven the development of global pressures on habitats and biodiversity, it is important that developments are accompanied with a compensation element leading to ‘no net loss’. We show how (using a standardised sampling process) a statistical assessment of the biodiversity quality of the target organisms (birds) in a compensatory provision can be shown to be a compensation or not. We used the example of the Cardiff Bay Barrage (Wales) where a bay was inundated and compensation site at Newport Gwent Levels (Wales) created. Bird data for the Cardiff Bay prior to the inundation and for Newport following inundation of Cardiff Bay were analysed to create a series of biodiversity quality indices and these were compared statistically. The analysis showed the compensation habitat was better than the original. Results were poor for Dunlin and Redshank, already subject to regional decline in the Severn Estuary and estuaries in NW Europe.

Cardiff Bay barrage: management of groundwater issues

The Cardiff Bay barrage, a 1·1 km long structure across the mouth of Cardiff Bay impounding a 200 ha freshwater lake, was central to the UK government's urban development programme to regenerate the docklands area of Cardiff. The Cardiff Bay Barrage Act 1993 included a groundwater protection scheme for buildings, providing owner/occupiers with recourse to remedial works or compensation should circumstances prove that construction of the barrage caused or probably caused groundwater damage. To allow a comparison of pre- and post-impoundment groundwater levels underlying south Cardiff, a groundwater monitoring system comprising 236 automated data loggers covering an urban area of 15 km2 was established between 1995 and 1999. To mitigate the possibility of a rise in groundwater levels in certain identified areas, various types of groundwater control systems were installed prior to impoundment in November 1999. Management (including collection and interpretation of data) and maintenance of such an extensive system have required great effort, resourcefulness and logistics. This paper presents a brief history of the scheme and an overview of the management of such a diverse and challenging groundwater project.

Effects of the Cardiff Bay tidal barrage on the abundance, ecology and behaviour of shelducks Tadorna tadorna

Abstract Closure of the Taff/Ely Estuary by the Cardiff Bay barrage in 1999 resulted in the replacement of intertidal mudflats by a permanent freshwater lake. This led to an 89% reduction in the population of shelducks Tadorna tadorna. The birds switched from foraging mainly for Nereis diversicolor and Hydrobia ulvae by scything with the bill as they walked across the mudflats at low tide, to feeding on benthic chironomid midge larvae while swimming in shallow water around the margins of the lake. The population decline occurred as a consequence of a decrease in the area available for foraging — from about 1 km2 of mudflats to about 0.1 km2 of water shallow enough for shelducks to reach the bottom when dabbling, head dipping and upending. Contrary to expectation, the amount of time shelducks spent feeding was similar pre‐ and post‐barrage, and their body and plumage condition improved. A tidal rhythm in activity persisted, with a reduced amount of feeding at high tide, probably because of the slight rise in water levels that sometimes occurred at this time. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Consequences of short‐term changes in coastal processes: a case study

AbstractIn 1997–98, unique critical beach erosion led to structural failure along the Penarth, South Wales, UK coastline and anthropogenic activities, such as the construction of the Cardiff Bay Barrage and offshore marine aggregate dredging, were suggested as causes. The time‐frame of significant erosion was between 1995 and 1997 and forcing agents (extreme sea level and wind direction) and shoreline indicators (mean beach level and MHW) were analysed in order to assess change. Water level analysis showed that although there was no significant difference between actual and predicted mean sea levels, extreme sea levels at that time were significantly higher (t = 3·305; d.f. = 8; p < 0·05). Three wind direction analyses (annual mean, mean annual maximum gust and mean annual maximum gust ≥28 kn) between 1995 and 1997 also showed significant differences (p < 0·05). All comprised more easterly components which meant they approached the beach from the sea. Furthermore, gusts ≥28 kn from the northeast quadrant, that is, 0° to 90° true, were significantly more frequent during these years (t = 3·674; d.f. = 8; p < 0·01). Justification of statistical significances was established and there was supporting evidence of unusual meteorological conditions at that time. Relationships showed correlation between forcing agents (extreme sea level and wind direction) and shoreline indicators (mean beach level and Mean High Water). Furthermore, regression analysis showed winds from the northeast quadrant resulted in steeper longshore gradients, as a consequence of beach material loss. Therefore, it was concluded that the critical erosion of Penarth beach between 1995 and 1997 was caused by increased wave attack from the northeast and southeast quadrants, generated by unique significant changes in wind direction and extreme sea levels. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Beach Response to a Total Exclusion Barrage: Cardiff Bay, South Wales, UK

The regeneration of 1100 ha of derelict industrial land to the south of Cardiff included the construction of the 1.1-km-long Cardiff Bay Barrage (completed November 1999), which impounded two major South Wales rivers. A 160 m groyned beach, composed of four groynes and three bays, adjacent to and seaward of the barrage breakwater was monitored between September 1997 and September 2002 to assess pre- and postconstruction beach evolution. Overall, mean beach levels increased throughout the five-year period, resulting in a net gain of beach covering equivalent to 818.8 m3 (1800 tonnes). After barrage completion, both longshore and cross-shore gradients became less volatile and increased beach levels in the bay nearest the breakwater, prevented tidal action and erosion at the cliff toe. This was a significant change from initial conditions that was verified by parametric and nonparametric tests at the 99% confidence level. Regression analysis determined that there were significant temporal relationships. Spatial analysis identified two highly significant longshore trends with respect to distance from the breakwater and showed that this influence decreased with distance. More than 72 m from the breakwater, the regression equation (R2 = 96%) modelled a trend of falling beach levels caused by net sediment transport. Conversely, from 72 m to the breakwater, beach levels increased at a rate greater than twice the fall in the previous section (R2 = 92%). These trends were further supported by significantly greater level differences across the second groyne. Impacts of temporal and spatial trends, especially subsequent to barrage completion, were evidenced by the change in beach morphology and similar contour orientation in all three bays. Models were developed and proposed as management tools to identify potential changes in coastal processes, as well as the rate of change of the barrage's upstream influence with respect to net sediment flow. Groyne removal was suggested to provide recreational beach space.

Groundwater modelling for the Cardiff Bay Barrage, UK – prediction, implementation of engineering works and validation of modelling

The Cardiff Bay Barrage has raised the mean water level in Cardiff Bay by 4.2 m. When the scheme was proposed, there were concerns that this rise in base level would cause a corresponding rise in shallow groundwater levels, impacting housing in south Cardiff. An extensive hydrogeological investigation and associated groundwater modelling were undertaken, resulting in published conclusions that the risk of impact was small, and within the range of engineering control measures. As part of the consent to proceed, an extensive water level monitoring system has been operated, and the effect on housing has also been monitored. Now that the scheme is complete, it is possible to review the modelling work undertaken to predict the effects and to compare the predictions with measurements, thus validating the modelling work. Direct comparison of water levels is difficult, but cumulative frequency curves show that no unexpected adverse effects have occurred. The prediction that, with suitable engineering works, there would be no impact on housing, is substantiated.

Groundwater modelling for the Cardiff Bay Barrage, UK - prediction, implementation of engineering works and validation of modelling

Groundwater modelling for the Cardiff Bay Barrage, UK - prediction, implementation of engineering works and validation of modelling

Environmental regulation of the Cardiff Bay Barrage

This paper describes the environmental regulation of Cardiff Bay by the Environment Agency (and its predecessors) from the early planning of the barrage to February 2002. Temporary impoundment took place in November 1999, with the bay being filled with seawater and occasionally emptied. Permanent impoundment with fresh water was achieved by April 2000. The framework for regulation was established by the Cardiff Bay Barrage Act 1993, which authorised the construction of a barrage across Cardiff Bay to impound the rivers Taff and Ely. Since impoundment, the water environment has required careful and balanced management to take into account the sometimes conflicting needs of water quality, fisheries, flood defence, recreation and business. The Agency has played a key role in ensuring that such management takes place without compromising environmental standards.

Cardiff Bay Barrage: planning and design

In 1986 Mr Peter Walker, Secretary of State for Wales, accepted the view that the Cardiff Bay area was in urgent need of urban renewal. The government, with support from the Vale of Glamorgan, the county of South Glamorgan and the City of Cardiff, created the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation (CBDC). Its remit was to regenerate some 1100 ha in this area of south Cardiff. The keystone to this strategy was the construction of the Cardiff Bay Barrage, to impound the estuaries of the rivers Taff and Ely, creating a 200 ha fresh water lake and about 12 km of attractive waterfront. Works of this magnitude and scope on tidal waters at that time required an Act of Parliament. The 1100 m long barrage includes sluices, locks, an outer harbour, fish pass, embankment and bridges. The sluices have a capacity of 2300 m3/s, to discharge combined flood flows from the Taff and Ely. The gates close to exclude the highest tides, allowing bay water levels to be controlled even in extreme conditions. A large fish pass allows migratory fish to move easily between the rivers and the sea. The paper describes the overall objectives of the Cardiff Bay Barrage, and the design of the barrage.

Cardiff Bay Barrage: construction

Cardiff Bay Barrage is a 1·1 km long impounding structure across the combined mouths of the rivers Taff and Ely in Cardiff, in south Wales. Completed in 1999, the £220 million project has transformed the city's coastline from unsightly tidal mud flats to an attractive 200 ha fresh water lake. It consists of a rockfill embankment flanked by a concrete section containing five sluice gates, three 40 m long locks and a fish pass. This paper describes the construction of the project, from building a major temporary cofferdam and temporary access bridge to dredging operations, piling, concreting, earthworks and caisson installation. It reports in particular on the challenges of working in an urban estuary with a tidal range of 14 m—the second highest in the world.

Cardiff Bay Barrage: planning and design

In 1986 Mr Peter Walker, Secretary of State for Wales, accepted the view that the Cardiff Bay area was in urgent need of urban renewal. The government, with support from the Vale of Glamorgan, the county of South Glamorgan and the City of Cardiff, created the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation (CBDC). Its remit was to regenerate some 1100 ha in this area of south Cardiff. The keystone to this strategy was the construction of the Cardiff Bay Barrage, to impound the estuaries of the rivers Taff and Ely, creating a 200 ha fresh water lake and about 12 km of attractive waterfront. Works of this magnitude and scope on tidal waters at that time required an Act of Parliament. The 1100 m long barrage includes sluices, locks, an outer harbour, fish pass, embankment and bridges. The sluices have a capacity of 2300 m3/s, to discharge combined flood flows from the Taff and Ely. The gates close to exclude the highest tides, allowing bay water levels to be controlled even in extreme conditions. A large fish pass allows migratory fish to move easily between the rivers and the sea. The paper describes the overall objectives of the Cardiff Bay Barrage, and the design of the barrage.

Environmental regulation of the Cardiff Bay Barrage

This paper describes the environmental regulation of Cardiff Bay by the Environment Agency (and its predecessors) from the early planning of the barrage to February 2002. Temporary impoundment took place in November 1999, with the bay being filled with seawater and occasionally emptied. Permanent impoundment with fresh water was achieved by April 2000. The framework for regulation was established by the Cardiff Bay Barrage Act 1993, which authorised the construction of a barrage across Cardiff Bay to impound the rivers Taff and Ely. Since impoundment, the water environment has required careful and balanced management to take into account the sometimes conflicting needs of water quality, fisheries, flood defence, recreation and business. The Agency has played a key role in ensuring that such management takes place without compromising environmental standards.

Cardiff Bay Barrage: planning and design

In 1986 Mr Peter Walker, Secretary of State for Wales, accepted the view that the Cardiff Bay area was in urgent need of urban renewal. The government, with support from the Vale of Glamorgan, the county of South Glamorgan and the City of Cardiff, created the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation (CBDC). Its remit was to regenerate some 1100 ha in this area of south Cardiff. The keystone to this strategy was the construction of the Cardiff Bay Barrage, to impound the estuaries of the rivers Taff and Ely, creating a 200 ha fresh water lake and about 12 km of attractive waterfront. Works of this magnitude and scope on tidal waters at that time required an Act of Parliament. The 1100 m long barrage includes sluices, locks, an outer harbour, fish pass, embankment and bridges. The sluices have a capacity of 2300 m3/s, to discharge combined flood flows from the Taff and Ely. The gates close to exclude the highest tides, allowing bay water levels to be controlled even in extreme conditions. A large fish pass allows migratory fish to move easily between the rivers and the sea. The paper describes the overall objectives of the Cardiff Bay Barrage, and the design of the barrage.

Environmental regulation of the Cardiff Bay Barrage

Environmental regulation of the Cardiff Bay Barrage

Cardiff Bay Barrage

Cardiff Bay Barrage is one of the key elements in the urban regeneration of South Cardiff. This paper outlines the need for that regeneration and takes an overview of the barrage project. It considers the legislative process and the economic considerations that were necessary before the £120m structure could be constructed. Environmental considerations were important. The effect of the barrage on over-wintering wading birds and the loss of a Site of Special Scientific Interest had to be mitigated, a £10m fresh water habitat was constructed. Groundwater rise within the City of Cardiff consequent on construction of the barrage was reduced by provision of a dewatering system and a system of surveys on 25 000 properties ensure that any possible damage due to groundwater rise is identified and can be rectified. Water quality issues including oxygenation of the bay are considered. The barrage design is outlined as an introduction to subsequent papers. The contractual issues are discussed, the out-turn cost was only 5% above the estimated out-turn cost when the project commenced on site. The development outputs predicted when the project was under consideration have been achieved and the economic return on the project shows a pay back period of less than 2 years

Cardiff Bay Barrage: construction

Cardiff Bay Barrage is a 1·1 km long impounding structure across the combined mouths of the rivers Taff and Ely in Cardiff, in south Wales. Completed in 1999, the £220 million project has transformed the city's coastline from unsightly tidal mud flats to an attractive 200 ha fresh water lake. It consists of a rockfill embankment flanked by a concrete section containing five sluice gates, three 40 m long locks and a fish pass. This paper describes the construction of the project, from building a major temporary cofferdam and temporary access bridge to dredging operations, piling, concreting, earthworks and caisson installation. It reports in particular on the challenges of working in an urban estuary with a tidal range of 14 m—the second highest in the world.

Cardiff Bay Barrage

Cardiff Bay Barrage is one of the key elements in the urban regeneration of South Cardiff. This paper outlines the need for that regeneration and takes an overview of the barrage project. It considers the legislative process and the economic considerations that were necessary before the £120m structure could be constructed. Environmental considerations were important. The effect of the barrage on over-wintering wading birds and the loss of a Site of Special Scientific Interest had to be mitigated, a £10m fresh water habitat was constructed. Groundwater rise within the City of Cardiff consequent on construction of the barrage was reduced by provision of a dewatering system and a system of surveys on 25 000 properties ensure that any possible damage due to groundwater rise is identified and can be rectified. Water quality issues including oxygenation of the bay are considered. The barrage design is outlined as an introduction to subsequent papers. The contractual issues are discussed, the out-turn cost was only 5% above the estimated out-turn cost when the project commenced on site. The development outputs predicted when the project was under consideration have been achieved and the economic return on the project shows a pay back period of less than 2 years

Cardiff Bay Barrage: overview of hydraulic studies

The assessment and planning of Cardiff Bay Barrage required an extensive programme of hydraulic studies, beginning with a pre-feasibility study leading to the full feasibility study. Following approval of the basic barrage scheme and the award of a design contract more studies were needed to confirm the design criteria and refine certain aspects of the design. The paper gives an overview of the full range of hydraulic studies undertaken by HR Wallingford, including flood routing, water quality, sedimentation and wave studies.