Concrete structure deployment off barrier

Work has been progressing today, Tuesday, to install a concrete structure which – it is hoped – could go some way in solving the long running issue of waves sweeping over the Second Barrier during bad weather.

Orkney Islands Council aim is to have a concrete caisson put in place off the Second Barrier to test the potential for using devices of this kind to reduce the impact of waves on the causeway.

Following a competitive tendering exercise, the contract to deploy the caisson was won by Orkney-based Leask Marine.

In December the structure was towed to a temporary mooring off the First Barrier ready for final deployment when conditions allowed. The company has also been undertaking preparatory work with the caisson and at the site off the Second Barrier.

Today, Leask Marine vessels could be seen manoeuvring the caisson off the Second Barrier as the project continues.

The council has been undertaking work since the spring of 2015 on the necessary planning, survey, consenting and risk assessment processes needed before the deployment could take place.