LNG Terminal South Hook

Around 20% of the gas consumed in the UK passes through the South Hook terminal. Huge LNG carriers bring it in from Qatar where it is extracted, and unload their cargoes in Milford Haven. Designed, built and equipped by BESIX, the more than 2 kilometres long jetty has two docking areas, able to accommodate simultaneously two of the world's largest LNG carriers (Qmax).

BESIX had to start by demolishing many structures of the former berthing and mooring areas, and rehabilitating others. All these operations required the use of heavy marine equipment, including one of Europe's largest floating cranes and 4 jack-up platforms. This presented potential risks to marine flora and fauna, and especially to the coral populations patiently developing on the seabed.

To preserve the marine environment as far as possible, BESIX examined and adapted its demolition and construction methods, including shotcreting and pile drilling. Its in-house engineers and specialists had to be imaginative with equipment and methods to minimize the footprints of anchors and barge piles on the seabed and avoid damage to the existing coral.