Landmark Land Reclamation Project Completed at the Port of Dover
A powerful joint venture between maritime engineering leader Boskalis Westminster and construction firm McLaughlin & Harvey has reached a significant milestone, announcing the successful completion of a major land reclamation initiative at the Port of Dover.
The project, officially designated as Stage 3B of the Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR), represents a £53 million investment in the port’s future infrastructure. Initiated in 2024, the scheme was designed to modernize the port’s footprint by repurposing historically underutilized areas, specifically the Wick Channel, Tidal Basin marinas, and Granville Dock.
Transforming the Port Landscape
As the principal contractor, McLaughlin & Harvey spearheaded a complex engineering operation that has fundamentally reshaped the waterfront. The project has successfully created 10 hectares of new, high-value port land—a vital expansion for one of the world’s busiest ferry ports.
The engineering challenge was immense, requiring the precise placement of nearly 900,000 cubic metres of infill material. This massive effort successfully raised the existing dock bed to within 0.5 metres of the current quay wall levels, effectively turning previously submerged areas into viable, usable ground for future development.
Complex Infrastructure Upgrades
The scope of the project extended well beyond basic land creation. To prepare the area for long-term operational use, the team undertook a series of intensive demolition and site preparation activities. This included the removal of legacy pontoons, gangways, and associated marine equipment from the Tidal Basin and Granville Dock. Furthermore, aging structural elements, such as the North Pier and the Ferry Jetty, were carefully demolished to allow for the modernized layout.
Beyond the earthworks and demolition, the venture focused on future-proofing the site through the installation of robust utility and road infrastructure. A cornerstone of this phase was the implementation of extensive drainage works, supported by a sophisticated new stormwater pumping station designed to manage the environmental demands of the expanded site.
The completion of this land reclamation project marks a pivotal moment in the Dover Western Docks Revival, signaling a new chapter for the port’s capacity to handle increased traffic and modern operational needs. By successfully integrating these reclaimed acres into the existing port infrastructure, Boskalis Westminster and McLaughlin & Harvey have provided the Port of Dover with the space and stability required to maintain its status as a critical gateway for international trade and travel.
