Hanson orders marine aggregate dredger

The investment is part of the company’s overall strategy to replace its existing marine aggregates fleet. Delivery is expected in 1Q21.

The new dredger will operate as part of Hanson Aggregates Marine, which is the largest producer of marine-dredged sand and gravel in Europe. The new vessel will be built in Galati, Romania and its design will provide increased payload and efficiency. It will be able to carry up to 7000 t/trip of marine aggregates, as well as improved fuel consumption and operational and maintenance savings. Further benefits of the dredger include the following: focus on safety, performance, and sustainability; reduced maintenance and increased uptime; a modular design that allows for the easy replacement of worn parts; stability that offers the crew the comfort and capability to work on rough seas; and fast and efficient dry-side loading.

“Marine aggregates are critical to Hanson’s UK business, as they are used in around half of our ready-mixed concrete plants and are becoming more and more important due to the increasing scarcity of land-won sand and gravel, particularly around London and Southeast England,” said Simon Willis, CEO of Hanson. “Working sustainably is a key priority for us and, while the use of marine aggregates reduces the need for quarrying on land, as well as the associated transport emissions, dredging the seabed brings with it a responsibility to protect the marine environment.

“Damen Shipyards is aligned with our priorities and has a proven track record for sustainability and health and safety, and we are looking forward to working together to deliver this new dredger.”

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/europe-cis/30052019/hanson-orders-marine-aggregate-dredger/