RNLI Portishead

This project delivered a new Lifeboat Station and Launch Ramp for a B Class Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat. Plandescil were responsible for the design of the ramp superstructure and substructure, along with a pedestrian beach access stair. The main ramp structure only provided the capability to launch during part of the tidal window and so a historic slipway was modified to accommodate the lifeboat launch at low water. The Bristol channel experiences the second greatest tidal range in the world, making tidal working a major challenge. Access was however the principal challenge of the construction which needed to adopt a ‘top down’ construction, chasing the tide out, and due to environmental restriction precluded a temporary ramp being installed from the promenade to the foreshore. To ensure the structure met the RNLI’s 100 year service life, a full load test was undertaken.