Marine construction to trial new timbers

Researchers from the Environment Agency (EA) are working with the Timber Industry in an attempt to broaden the types of hardwood used in marine and freshwater construction projects.

Until now, the marine and freshwater construction industry has typically relied upon a small number of hardwoods that have been tried and tested in the past, including Greenheart, Ekki and Opepe.

However, the EA wants the construction industry to consider using alternative hardwoods in marine and freshwater construction, particularly in constructing flood defences, to ease to pressure on declining hardwood forests.

Mark Yeomans, a spokesperson for the EA, said the research will consider a wide range of factors that affect a wood’s performance, including abrasion resistance and engineering properties.

The first phase of the research, to be completed by November 2008, will shortlist five new types of hardwood to be tested against British Standards for durability and strength.

Timbers that pass the test will be trialled in live projects, including landing stages, lock gates and beach groins.