LEICESTER Marina on the Grand Union Canal North of the city is back to full capacity after a loss of berths owing to restoration work.
With Spring on the way the completion of bank restoration works by civil engineering firm Greenford Ltd, could not have come at a better time, leaving the marina with its full capacity of 160 berths.
Ailing section
Leicester Marina owners, Raynsway Properties, wanted to ensure the marina was in top form and authorised the necessary restorative works which were required for an ailing section of the marina bank, that required the removal and replacement of 67 metres of failed bank protection which involved the temporary detachment of pontoons, removal of existing sheet piling, installation of new sheet piling and timber detail, and the reinstatement of the footpath the length of the bank.
Julie Brace, Leicester Marina Manager, explained:
"From start to finish we have been very happy with the restorative works that Greenford Ltd have carried out at the marina. They were very accommodating to ensure there was minimal disruption for residents and visitors on site and we wouldn't hesitate to call on their services again."
Far from routine
The project was far from routine for principal the contractor, as completing such works in the middle of a still operational and very popular marina required constant consideration of not only the needs of its client but also those of the day to day operations of the boaters mooring there during the works.
The bank restoration works were completed late February allowing the marina to now be back to operating at full capacity. Despite being only four miles from Leicester city centre, Leicester Marina maintains a relaxing country atmosphere and adjoins the beautiful Watermead Country Park which boasts walking trails, a wild bird sanctuary with observation points, and cycle routes.
Facilities
The marina itself offers well maintained green spaces, BBQs, and picnic areas as well as facilities including: a marina office, pump out, Elsan, diesel, launderette, showers, toilets, electricity, water, gas, slipway, brokerage and coal.