22-Jul-2004

Hutchison Ports (UK) Limited’s (HPUK) proposal for a new deep-water container terminal at Bathside Bay has won a top award for its approach to landscape design. The Local and Site Planning Award was awarded to LDA Design Consulting LLP (LDA Design), landscape consultants to HPUK, by the Landscape Institute, the professional body representing landscape architects, scientists and managers, at its prestigious 75th Anniversary Awards ceremony.

LDA Design’s concept incorporates a number of features to enhance the setting of the proposed terminal, most notably a new wetland area alongside the A120 to create an attractive approach to the proposed facility, and to Harwich. The judges praised many aspects of the project, including the creation of a small boat harbour, for “extending the recreational resource and providing a sensitive transition from the small scale of Harwich to the large scale deep-sea facility”.

Richard Pearson, Managing Director of HPUK, said of the award:

“We have been extremely impressed by the bold, innovative approach LDA Design has taken towards the Bathside Bay project.”

He continued:

“LDA Design has successfully interpreted our brief to ensure that our operational needs are met, whilst at the same time providing us with a thoroughly modern, and aesthetically appealing, new port facility. The design incorporates extensive tree planting and a “green” buffer zone that helps shield the working area of the Port. The award is a fitting testament to LDA Design’s skill and vision.”

Colin Goodrum, Partner at LDA Design, added:

“LDA Design is proud to have received the award, one of three received from the Landscape Institute this year. HPUK has been an exemplary client, willing to consider the local wider issues of impact. HPUK has supported design initiatives to mitigate impacts and comprehensively masterplan the new terminal in an appropriate and sensitive manner.”

The development of Bathside Bay would provide 1,400 metres of deep-water quay, dredged to 15 metres alongside, able to accommodate the largest vessels operational today.

The new terminal would provide 772 direct jobs, with 930 more in associated industries, and would generate some ¢G50 million per annum for the local economy.

A Public Inquiry into the proposals is currently underway, and is due to end on 17th September 2004.