The Rothen Group were asked by Canal & River Trust to carry out repairs to address the eroded bank of the Ashby Canal, which had multiple wash holes and areas of narrow towpath.
The Project
The project brief was to install soft bank protection, divided into two sections. The soft bank protection comprised 300mm diameter coir rolls placed on a single layer of rock rolls and secured with galvanised steel wire to chestnut posts. The entire length was backfilled with puddling clay.
The coir rolls are planted with a range of native plant species, ideal for a range of wildlife to nest and feed from. They are quick to establish and form a soft bank fringe of native vegetation, ideal in rural locations or to add some colour tourban settings.
All the materials were floated to site from our wharf at Mancetter on our historic carrying boat ‘Archimedes’. She also provided welfare for the team during the works.
We worked with the CRT Philanthropy Manager, Eleanor Mason, to enable the donor for the works, and Andy Thorpe, to work with the project team and assist with the installation of the coir rolls.
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Following the storm seasons of 2023 & 2024, the EA set out to review its impact on the UK’s waterways. The River Derwent in Derby was flagged after a sonar scan of its navigation identified a scour hole – a direct result of heavy rainfall pushing sediment downstream.
Our Accreditations
"The bank protection works look very impressive - the line of the coir & rock rolls is good, and the towpath width is greatly improved. The team have made a good job here."
Neil Bedford
Canal & River Trust