RESIDENTS and mariners have been alerted to harbour improvement works in Harwich Harbour.

The works began on Saturday and will see the trailing hopper suction dredger, Rotterdam, used to carry out dredging.

Rotterdam will also be disposing of material at the Inner Gabbard East disposal area, 30km east of Harwich.

Sarah West, Harwich Haven Authority chief executive, which oversees the harbour, said: “Vessels up to 395 metres length overall may be permitted to pass the dredger within the harbour, subject to agreement by Harwich Vessel Traffic Service and ship-to-ship agreement.

“The dredging contractor is the Van Oord and Boskalis Westminster Joint Venture appointed by Harwich Haven Authority to carry out the Harwich Haven Channel Deepening Project.

“All dredging vessels are subject to Harwich VTS Traffic Organisation.”

Given the increased frequency of vessel movements and dredging operations, Harwich Haven Authority has reminded mariners of the importance of regulated vessel requirements.

Marine radio’s importance has also been emphasised with the necessity to maintain a listening watch on channel VHF 71 contributing to the keeping of a good all-round lookout.

For more information on the dredging plant’s location contact Harwich VTS on VHF 71 or listen to the daily Chanel Deepening VHF broadcasts on VHF 11.