Recycling & Reusing
Projects supported by reusing old timber groyne wood
Our timber groynes have an average lifespan of approx. 25 years; when they are replaced, the removed timber is carefully sorted and re-used in a host of new projects.
The reinstated seawall
The collapsed seawall
Ventnor Esplanade coastal defence reinstatement, Isle of Wight
Esplanade Promenade is a key route for walkers and cyclists; coastal defences date back to 1960’s. On 3 November 2022, a large hole and cracks appeared in the revetment slope and apron of the seawall, closing part of Ventnor’s Eastern Cliffs Esplanade. Within days, part of the seawall collapsed into the sea.
Recycled groyne timber from BCP has been used with sheet piles to reinstate the sea defence, completed spring 2023.
The project is described in a BBC South News story below, with further information at www.iow.gov.uk
Courtesy of BBC South News, March 2024
Durley Chine Environmental Hub, Bournemouth
Opened in February 2023, the Hub is helping to deliver a step-change in the reduction of waste and elimination of single-use packaging along the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole seafront.
The main building is a timber framed structure, highly insulated with recycled material; built to the recognised Passivhaus standard for highly efficient energy design. Its sustainable construction includes 45 tonnes of recycled groyne timber to create the cladding, decking, & structural supports.
Project details at www.bcpseafrontprojects.net
Calstock footbridge, Cornwall
Re-purposing recycled BCP groyne timber enabled the Tamar Community Trust to construct this footbridge to retain a popular path along the river bank.
The bridge at Calstock, Cornwall, which spans 1.2km (0.7 mile) within the Tamar Valley Discovery Trail, was completed in May 2022. It was created over a newly flooded wetland, as a part of the River Tamar Walkway and Wetland Project. The bridge was part of a £3.1m flood defence scheme in the village, delivered by the Environment Agency, Tamar Community Trust, Calstock Parish Council, Calstock Footpath Society and Tamar Valley AONB.
Project information at www.gov.uk
Lake Pier, Hamworthy, Poole
A 2023 joint project between the Bird and Recreation Initiative (BARI) and BCP Council’s Greenspace Development Team to help protect over-wintering birds from recreational disturbance.
BCP recycled groyne timber was used to create new artwork and improved pathway access to the shoreline. By enhancing and promoting Lake Pier as a key watersports launch site, this facility will divert use and reduce pressure on other more sensitive areas such as Holes Bay and Lytchett Bay.
Project information at www.bcpprojects.net
Whitecliff Park, Poole
This unique bench was designed by BCP Council’s Greenspace Development Team using recycled timber piles from the Bournemouth coastline.
Project information at www.mackley.co.uk
Highcliffe Castle zig-zag
Recycled groyne timbers were used to clad the wall of the restored zig-zag path. Completed in April 2019, this popular access route links Highcliffe Castle & the seafront.
Project information at www.dorsetcoasthaveyoursay.co.uk