Despite unpredictable weather during the past few weeks, the beach replenishment operation along the Dorset coast at Bournemouth is only a few days behind schedule. The image, shot on the last day of 2006, shows the new material being pumped ashore at Boscombe pier. The bulldozers, which are constantly driven in salt water, are not able to be protected from the corrosive environment in any way. The grinding action of the sand on the sprockets for the tracks, and the strain on the gear-boxes give the lifespan for one of these machines of around 3 years, after which they are cleaned up, re-painted and sold on. They cost around £250,000 each when new!
The refurbishment of Boscombe pier entrance, a grade 2 listed building, is due to commence mid January.
© 2007
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