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Portsmouth
Factfile |
 Portsmouth |
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The Solents Role- Marine Aggregates |
The aggregate industry in the Solent is divided into 2 parts:
- Extraction of aggregates - substantial dredging activity takes place off the southeast coast of the Isle of Wight to collect the aggregate.
- Landing of aggregates - The bringing ashore of the material takes place at a number of sites, including Portsmouth and Langstone Harbours.
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Photograph courtesy of BMAPA |
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The process of finding a dredging site involves surveying and sampling hundreds of square miles of seabed, because each specific site has to meet strict environmental criteria. Initial information about the contents of the seabed is first provided by the British Geological Survey. More detailed information is found using a variety of geotechnical and geophysical methods. This means applying science and technology techniques - for example, the taking of core samples (actual samples from the seabed). Furthermore, when surveying or dredging is carried out, the latest satellite technology is employed for accuracy - this can be done to within 5 metres of the designated site. |
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