A Disabled Fishing Club, dedicated to providing accessible outdoor fishing experiences for individuals with disabilities, required the relocation of its pontoon access system from a lake in Shropshire to a reservoir in the Peak District. The pontoon system, a crucial component of the club’s fishing facilities, provides safe and convenient access to the water for club members with mobility challenges. Due to changes in the availability of the original lake and the desire to offer members a more suitable fishing environment, the pontoon system was moved to a reservoir that offered better fishing opportunities and improved accessibility.
The relocation project involved logistical planning, careful consideration of environmental factors, and ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. The project aimed to enhance the fishing experience for club members by improving access while maintaining the integrity of the existing pontoon system.
Objectives
Relocation of the Pontoon System: Safely demobilise, transport and install the pontoon access system at a new location.
Accessibility: Ensure the new location provides improved access to individuals with mobility impairments.
Minimal Disruption to Club Activities: Ensure that club members’ access to fishing facilities is not significantly disrupted during the transition, and that the existing club location is left in a clean and tidy manner.
Challenges
Logistical Complexity: Moving a large pontoon system, a 3m wide swim ramp, and safety equipment, required precise planning. The route from the original lake to the Pontoon and Dock warehouse, and then to the reservoir, was not straightforward, passing many weight restricted and tight lanes, and height restricted bridges.
Design and Modifications: The pontoon access system had to be adapted for the new reservoir, considering factors like water depth, windage, and the specific needs of the disabled fishermen. The design of the docking system and ramps needed to be customized to meet the new sites mooring layout.
Environmental Concerns: The reservoir's ecosystem needs to be protected, and any installation or relocation activities required careful consideration of aquatic life, water quality, and local regulations.
Club Member Engagement: The club had to keep its members informed throughout the process, ensuring they understood the reason for the relocation and how it would ultimately improve their fishing experience.
Approach & Actions Taken
Pre-Move Assessment and Planning
Prior to the move, a site survey was conducted at the old lake and new reservoir to evaluate the water conditions, space available for installation, and potential environmental considerations. This helped determine the ideal location for the pontoon system and any modifications required to make it suitable for disabled access at the new location. The team also assessed the condition of the existing pontoon system to ensure it could be safely disassembled and relocated, and for any initial damages that could hinder the demobilisation.
Environmental Review
To stop contamination to the local wildlife, water quality, and the overall habitat, all the equipment moved from the original location was firstly delivered back to the Pontoon and Dock warehouse for thorough cleaning with an industrial pressure washer, scrubbed with biodegradable cleaning solution and then pressure washed again.
Design Customization
The pontoon system was modified for the new location by adjusting the configuration of the pontoon. A mooring frame with a winch on, was also re-designed by our fabrication contractor (Stainless Design and Fabrication) using the old frame and re-installed onto the new pontoon system. Additional mooring brackets were also designed and fabricated for the new mooring system. There were additional handrails installed, along with further safety curbing around the swim ramp, to allow safe access for wheelchair users on the pontoons.
Relocation and Installation
The move was executed by a team of experienced marine contractors at Pontoon and Dock, specializing in marine infrastructure. The pontoon system was carefully disassembled, cleaned, and transported to the new reservoir using P&Ds own cranes and flatbed trucks. Upon arrival, the pontoons were reassembled and positioned at the new location. The team ensured that all necessary safety checks, including securing the structure to the existing moorings, were thoroughly completed.
Member Engagement
The club kept members informed throughout the process. The members were invited to visit the new site ahead of the grand reopening to provide feedback on any improvements and to familiarize themselves with the new access points.
Outcomes
Enhanced Accessibility
The new pontoon access system greatly improved accessibility for members with disabilities. The ramp ensured that wheelchair users and those with other mobility impairments could safely access the fishing boats from the pontoon. Modifications such as handrails, gangways, and improved slip-resistant surfaces made the pontoon safer and more navigable for all club members to use.
Positive Member Feedback
The transition to the new reservoir was well-received by the club members. The updated pontoon system made it easier for individuals with varying disabilities to engage in fishing activities. Members appreciated the enhanced safety features and the access ramp allowing for safe transition in a wheelchair, from pontoon to boat. The kayak/canoe launch also allows easier access to water for disabled and less abled users.
Minimal Environmental Impact
Through careful planning, the relocation was completed with minimal impact on the reservoir’s ecosystem. Thorough cleaning of the pontoon not only stopped any cross-contamination, but made the pontoons look brand new.
Operational Efficiency
The project was completed on time and within budget, allowing the club to resume regular fishing activities with minimal disruption. The new site’s improved facilities will lead to an increase in club participation and satisfaction, which positively impacted membership numbers.
Next Steps & Conclusion
After a period of usage, more bespoke handrails are required, utilising the half size fishing railings already installed. This will allow safer use of the pontoon in general. A transition ramp from the slipway onto the transition ramp is also required. When budget allows, further enhancement to the system is planned in the future.
In conclusion, the successful relocation of the pontoon access system not only improved the fishing experience for the Disabled Fishing Club’s members but also set a new benchmark for accessible outdoor recreational spaces. The project exemplifies how thoughtful planning, a commitment to accessibility, and careful environmental stewardship can come together to create inclusive, sustainable solutions for recreational activities. The club’s members now enjoy safer, easier access to the water, and the new reservoir offers a more pleasant environment for fishing, contributing to the club’s continued growth and success.
Comments