by Graham Tutthill

gtutthill@thekmgroup.co.uk

There will be a rare sight in Dover during the next few weeks when the Wellington Dock is drained so work can be carried out to remove and repair the dock gates in the marina.

And while it is empty, Dover Harbour Board will take the opportunity to clear out all the rubbish which has been thrown into the River Dour further upstream and made its way into the dock.

The gate seals have been damaged, so will have to be repaired to maintain the water levels.

In preparation for the work, boat owners and berth holders have been contacted to coordinate the lifting-out of boats from the Wellington Dock, as the dock will have to be drained for the gates to be taken out and repaired.

Mike Krayenbrink, director of port development at the Port of Dover, said: "We will be working closely with the Environment Agency to ensure that impacts of the work on the River Dour which flows into the Wellington Dock, including on fish migration, are properly considered and addressed.

"The Wellington Dock becomes a repository for rubbish which is dropped upstream into the River Dour and works its way to the harbour."

While the dock is drained, workmen will clear rubbish that has accumulated and some other additional work will also be carried out, such as dredging and dock wall surveys, in order to make the most of a very rare occasion that the dock is drained.

Mr Krayenbrink added: "These are essential works that are being undertaken at the earliest opportunity in order to maintain and protect the marina for our yachting community and as a valued community asset."

The work should be completed by mid-December.