Gloucester’s Last Shipwrights Struggle Against Growing Silt in the Docks

Gloucester’s last traditional shipwrights are raising alarms over the continuing battle against silt accumulation in the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal. Tommi Nielsen, co-founder of T. Nielsen and Company, a firm with a global reputation for historic wooden ship restoration, has witnessed firsthand how the problem is worsening.

Since starting the company in 1988 alongside Sarah White, Tommi has seen the docks accommodate large vessels, including majestic three-masted tall ships. However, recent years have brought a troubling change. The escalating silt buildup, primarily caused by water pumped from the River Severn into the docks to supply around half of Bristol’s drinking water, has hindered access for larger ships.

Annually, some 200 million litres of water are extracted from Sharpness for Bristol Water, but this process inadvertently deposits approximately 50,000 cubic metres of silt into the docks—an environmental challenge complicating navigation and ship maintenance.

Despite millions invested by the Canal and River Trust in dredging efforts—Gloucester alone accounts for about a third of the trust’s national dredging budget—the problem remains daunting. A £4.5 million recovery program launched after unprecedented silt levels during a dry summer is halfway through, having already removed 37,000 tonnes of silt, with further dredging planned for the autumn.

Previously, the bucket dredger Thomas Fletcher operated continuously until 2000, efficiently clearing mud for disposal in the River Severn. However, new environmental regulations now prevent this disposal method, making dredging more complex and costly.

Mr. Nielsen praises the dedication of the Canal and River Trust but fears they are losing ground. The increased silt has forced T. Nielsen and Company to transport more vessels by road, as fewer tall ships can safely navigate the docks.

“Fifteen years ago, we regularly accommodated large three-masted tall ships, but today, only smaller vessels can get in,” Nielsen explained. “We rely increasingly on bringing ships in by road, which isn’t ideal for our traditional shipbuilding work.”

Additionally, local plans to develop land at West Quay, which would have disrupted outdoor workspaces essential for ship restoration, have been withdrawn. Mr. Nielsen expressed relief and gratitude for the strong local support that helped protect the shipyard’s operations.

The Canal and River Trust reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining Gloucester Docks’ accessibility. A spokesperson stated, “We are working tirelessly, investing a significant portion of our national dredging funds to improve conditions here. We value our partnership with T. Nielsen and other local businesses and will continue efforts to keep Gloucester Docks operational for years to come.”