Impact of engineering structures on tidal flow and sediment distribution in the Thames

Abstract

Summary The Thames is one of the most suitable estuaries in which to examine how engineering works affect flow and sediment movement. Case histories are given to demonstrate the important influence of both structure location and structure design on river conditions. They also illustrate methods available for predicting the consequences of works or for identifying cause and effect following changes in estuary regime. Finally, they provide warning of the penalties of failure to take account of the hydraulic implications of a new structure.

Observations of the morphodynamic behaviour of an intertidal mudflat at different timescales

“…Kendrick & onshore 0~.~¢6 Derbyshire (1976) observed that the reduction (to virtually nothing) in the volume of maintenance dredging in one reach of the tidal Thames between 1963 and 1966 resulted in higher silt concentrations being carried in the flood tidal flow. Survey data showed a corresponding increase in the mean bed level for the reach and presumably (Kendrick 1984) more material was available for deposition in regions of low tidal velocity, i.e. bankside areas.…”