Public input sought on dredging options

A series of public meetings will be held in the coming weeks to discuss what dredging options could be adopted for Bermuda's shipping channels.

Bermuda Environmental Consulting Ltd (BECLtd) was tasked by Government to undertake Environmental Impact Assessments of three possible modification models.

The first option involves dredging and widening of the North Channel with some removal of coal reefs.

The second option involves extensive sand dredging to the the South Channel.

And the third option involves realignments and improvements to the South Channel by extensive sand dredging.

All three options would involved limited dredging within 'The Narrows' - that portion of the channel off St. Georges that allows ships to pass through the Island’s reefs.

Now the firm is looking input from community on the proposed upgrades that would allow newer and bigger cruises ships into Dockyard.

BECLtd will be meeting with all key regulators, shipping operators and clients including relevant local businesses and environmental non Governmental organisations to examine the options and capture feedback.

Public consultation will take the form of town hall meetings, manned open house sessions to encourage informal consultations, and presentation of information via a dedicated website (channelstudy.info). The website is set up to accept written submissions. 

On Tuesday 18th March an open house will be held at the Anglican Cathedral Hall, 29 Church Street in Hamilton from 11 am – 3 pm for people to learn more about the project.

There will also be three town hall meetings: Hamilton at The Anglican Cathedral Hall, 29 Church Street on Tuesday 1st April from 6 to 7:30PM and Dockyard at the Heritage Wharf Terminal on Thursday 3rd April from 6 to 7:30PM. The third meeting will be held in St. George’s in mid April, with the exact date yet to be confirmed. Further meetings will be held if there is a need.

For additional information please contact Bermuda Environmental Consulting Ltd at 400 5990.