SSD STA Kentish Ragstone Supply

The Environment Agency requires natural stone aggregate for embankment repairs to the tidal River Ouse embankments in East Sussex between Newhaven and the A27 (near Lewes). The banks of the tidal River Ouse were raised in the fifties and the exposed face was protected from scour at high tide by a revetment know as pole wharfing. The revetment consists of chestnut stakes and woven chestnut poles retaining limestone cobbles.

A 10 year maintenance programme of embankment repairs began in 2014 and involves replacing damaged or missing polewharfing. Where significant erosion has occurred gabion baskets or clay blisters will be used. Approximately 1,000 - 2,000 tonnes of aggregate each year (from 2015 to 2024) are expected to be used for polewharfing and as gabion fill material.

The average annual quantity of aggregate is likely to be around 1,200 tonnes however this figure could vary from year to year as the work is dependent on the condition of the embankments, suitable ground conditions and financial budget. Work is typically restricted to between April and September to coincide with the favourable ground conditions (although emergency repairs may be required outside of this period).