LNG Terminal South Hook

Concrete, steel, coral: a respectful cohabitation

In Wales, BESIX constructed the jetty for the South Hook LNG regasification terminal at Milford Haven, on the site of the former ESSO refinery. With the greatest respect for the marine ecosystem.

20% of the UK's natural gas

Around 20% of the gas consumed in the UK passes through the South Hook terminal. Huge LNG carriers bring it in from Qatar where it is extracted, and unload their cargoes in Milford Haven. Designed, built and equipped by BESIX, the more than 2 kilometres long jetty has two docking areas, able to accommodate simultaneously two of the world's largest LNG carriers (Qmax).

Proof of BESIX's expertise in the difficult conditions of needing to preserve a marine ecosystem.

High risk for the marine ecosystem

BESIX had to start by demolishing many structures of the former berthing and mooring areas, and rehabilitating others. All these operations required the use of heavy marine equipment, including one of Europe's largest floating cranes and 4 jack-up platforms. This presented potential risks to marine flora and fauna, and especially to the coral populations patiently developing on the seabed.

BESIX innovates to preserve the seabed

To preserve the marine environment as far as possible, BESIX examined and adapted its demolition and construction methods, including shotcreting and pile drilling. Its in-house engineers and specialists had to be imaginative with equipment and methods to minimize the footprints of anchors and barge piles on the seabed and avoid damage to the existing coral.