Brighton Marina

Securing Brighton Marina: Enhancing Structural Integrity with Advanced Corrosion Protection

Brighton Marina is a lively, cosmopolitan destination that offers a warm welcome, exceptional facilities, and easy access to open water. Nestled beneath striking white cliffs just half a mile east of the historic city, it stands as the UK’s largest marina. 

Constructed between 1972 and 1976, Brighton Marina was built with robust sea defences, including east and west breakwaters made from circular caissons. These breakwaters play a crucial role in protecting approximately 1,000 homes, 1,600 boats, and a thriving retail and leisure complex.

In 2001, a comprehensive monitoring program was introduced, involving regular concrete condition testing. Results revealed high chloride levels in some areas, which is common in marine environments. Over time, this led to reinforcement corrosion, causing cracks and spalled concrete. The absence of construction joints contributed to vertical shrinkage cracks in the parapet walls, which in turn triggered longitudinal corrosion-induced cracking. Additionally, isolated corrosion areas caused spalling, leading to surface deterioration on the walls and soffits of the caissons.

After nearly 40 years of minimal maintenance on the caissons, it was clear that repairs were necessary and in 2013 Brighton Marina Estate Management Co. Limited commissioned  Mouchel to undertake a thorough inspection of the caissons condition. Mouchel recommended that a corrosion prevention system was installed and CRL was appointed to carry out some small-scale Cathodic Protection (CP) trials to 2 of the caissons using various cathodic protection techniques to determine the most effective restoration approach and help to refine the preferred technical solution.

The corrosion prevention/repair trial utilised two types of Cathodic Protection to prevent further corrosion. The repair process began with the removal and repair of any spalled concrete, including the replacement of any corroded reinforcement. Once the damaged areas were restored, Sacrificial/Galvanic Anode Cathodic Protection (SACP) was installed for the lower sections, while an Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) mesh system was applied to the upper areas. This was followed by the placement and grouting of discrete anodes for additional protection. Finally, a sprayed concrete overlay or wearing screed was applied over the ICCP mesh system to ensure durability and long-term structural integrity.

At the same time as the CP trials were being conducted, CRL carried out the repairs to the various areas on the externals of the breakwater.

With these vital improvements, Brighton Marina remains a safe, vibrant hub for both residents and visitors. This project highlights the importance of proactive maintenance in protecting iconic maritime structures.