Client
Brighton Marina Estate Management Co. Limited
Value
£450k
Sectors & Services
Marine Structures Concrete Repair Corrosion Control Cleaning & Preparation Projects
Brighton Marina, located just half a mile east of the historic city, is the UK’s largest marina and a key coastal hub, hosting approximately 1,600 boats, 1,000 homes, and a vibrant retail and leisure complex. Constructed between 1972 and 1976, the marina features robust sea defences, including east and west breakwaters built from circular caissons.
After decades of exposure to the marine environment, monitoring programmes identified high chloride levels and resulting reinforcement corrosion, leading to spalling, cracking, and surface deterioration of the caisson walls and soffits. CRL was commissioned to conduct targeted corrosion prevention trials, restore damaged concrete, and safeguard the structural integrity of this iconic maritime asset.
Services undertaken
- Visual inspection and assessment of caisson concrete
- Removal and replacement of spalled concrete
- Replacement of corroded reinforcement
- Installation of Sacrificial/Galvanic Anode Cathodic Protection (SACP)
- Application of Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) mesh system
- Placement and grouting of discrete anodes
- Sprayed concrete overlay or wearing screed application
- External breakwater concrete repairs
- Surface preparation for coating and overlay adhesion
- Structural restoration to ensure long-term durability and resilience
The project began with small-scale trials to determine the most effective corrosion prevention techniques for the breakwaters. Initial works involved the careful removal of spalled concrete and the replacement of any corroded reinforcement. Once these areas were restored, CRL implemented a dual Cathodic Protection (CP) strategy. Sacrificial/Galvanic Anode Cathodic Protection (SACP) was installed in the lower caisson sections, providing passive protection by corroding in place of the embedded steel. For the upper sections, an Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) mesh system was applied, offering active corrosion mitigation through controlled electrical currents.
Discrete anodes were strategically placed and grouted to enhance protection in critical areas, while surface preparation ensured optimal bonding of the protective systems. A sprayed concrete overlay or wearing screed was applied over the ICCP mesh to deliver additional durability and resilience. Simultaneously, CRL carried out external repairs across the breakwaters, addressing surface deterioration caused by long-term chloride ingress. These integrated methods combined advanced electrochemical protection with conventional concrete repair techniques, ensuring long-term structural stability and operational continuity.
"Working on the Brighton Marina corrosion protection project was both a challenging and rewarding experience. The expertise and dedication of our team played a key role in delivering high-quality repairs, reinforcing the breakwaters, and safeguarding the marina for years to come."
Ben Lawson | Contracts Manager | CRL
To secure Brighton Marina against future corrosion, long-term preventative measures were applied alongside conventional repairs. The combination of SACP and ICCP systems provides ongoing protection to the reinforcement, mitigating chloride-induced corrosion across the caissons. Surface preparation prior to overlay application ensured strong adhesion and prevented future delamination, while the sprayed concrete or wearing screed enhances durability and resilience in a harsh marine environment.
These measures minimise future maintenance requirements, extend service life, and safeguard the marina’s operational and structural integrity. By integrating electrochemical and traditional repair techniques, the project delivers sustainable asset management for one of the UK’s most significant coastal structures.
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.
