Shiplake Rowing Facility

Henley-on-Thames

The project at Shiplake Rowing Facility saw the installation of a 35.9 linear metre rowing pontoon, designed to meet the demanding needs of a modern rowing facility. 

Client Cook Piling
Date October 2024
Where Henley-on-Thames

Shiplake College provides top-tier rowing facilities that support student development and attract competitive events. Previously, a fixed concrete quay created challenges, as low river levels made it difficult to access rowing boats with outriggers, and high river levels caused flooding that often rendered the quay unusable.

The new floating pontoon resolves these issues, offering consistent water access and enabling the college to host a wider range of events, even during fluctuating river levels.

With a low freeboard of 150mm, the newly installed pontoon allows oars to clear it easily while maintaining maximum reserve buoyancy, stability and excellent slip resistance through our patented GRP decking. This design prioritises safety, especially for young rowers carrying boats in wet conditions. The design also incorporates the safest methods for carrying boats onto the water.

We worked closely with Cook Piling, a respected main contractor, who managed the delivery and towing of the pontoons to the site, highlighting the strong partnership between our companies.

The project team overcame several challenges, including a flooded site during the initial survey. Team members wore dry suits to conduct a detailed total station survey and collect accurate data.

The bend in the Thames, characterised by steep banks and narrow access points, presented additional challenges. By collaborating with Cook Piling, we efficiently delivered the pontoons to their Henley yard and towed them to the site. The steep bank angles required adjustments to the pontoon layout, prompting us to fabricate and install a new angle infill while adhering to project timelines.

The new facility provides a stable, safe platform for launching and recovering boats. It benefits Shiplake College students, visiting rowers and the college itself by enhancing its ability to host high-quality rowing events and attracting more participants and spectators.

From the outset the client benefited greatly from Inland and Coastal being on site at our initial client meeting. They were able to demonstrate the benefits of the pontoons and show examples of previous projects first hand. We have worked together with Inland and Coastal before and know the will act promptly should any issue arise to ensure the job is completed on time to budget.
— David Clarke, Commercial Director, Cook Piling