In summary
- A large section of eroded riverbank posed a severe flood risk to the surrounding area
- Using sheet piles and choir matting in a client-supplied design, we successfully stabilised the bank
- We landscaped the embankment using existing earth to restore its natural appearance
Project in numbers
1st system of its kind installed by the Environment Agency
100% manual design with no power requirement
1 person operation for safer, simpler inspections
The need
Safer access to a gauging station in Devon was required to allow Environment Agency teams to carry out inspections, routine maintenance and sampling in the river channel.
The challenge was to introduce a solution that would not obstruct river flow, interfere with the accuracy of gauging equipment or increase flood risk – all while improving safety for operators.
The solution
We delivered a bespoke fold-away access system designed to meet the Environment Agency’s safety and monitoring requirements, without changing the channel profile or affecting flow.
All components were manufactured offsite in collaboration with a supply partner, with some refinements made to the design before a factory acceptance test confirmed performance.
On site, we built a recessed, self-draining concrete foundation within the riverbank to house the platform and ladder. Once installed, the system could be manually operated by a single person and safely stowed to leave a flush, secure surface.
We provided training to Environment Agency staff to support safe use and long-term maintenance.
The completed system enables consistent access for monitoring, supporting accurate water level tracking and contributing to local flood forecasting and management.
It also sets a new standard for future installations in similar environments.
The benefits
- Improves operator safety with a secure access point
- Protects gauging accuracy by maintaining river flow
- Enables inspections and maintenance without additional infrastructure
- Reduces risk and future costs through a low-tech solution
- Supports flood monitoring and sets a precedent for future sites
