Marine aggregate dredging affects less than 1 per cent of the UK’s territorial waters – yet provides 20 per cent of the sand and gravel we need in England and Wales. The industry’s output is equivalent to approximately 50 quarries which would otherwise be needed on land. The fact that dredgers can deliver close to the heart of urban areas or direct to coast protection and beach replenishment projects removes many thousands of lorry journeys from our roads. Here, we quote some of the key facts and figures about marine aggregate dredging.
Key facts:
Key statistics: (All figures shown relate to 2006)
Aggregate market in Britain
Sand & gravel market in Britain