The artificial beach nourishment project is underway on the coastal stretch south of Figueira da Foz (Cova-Gala – Costa de Lavos), led by APA - Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente (Portuguese Environment Agency), with the placement of sediments in the emerged area between breakwaters 5 and 4 of Cova-Gala beach, which aims to protect the coastline.
On July 10, a 1.1 km long pipeline was installed in the sea, allowing dredging and repulsion of sediments from the borrow area located off Claridade beach to begin. The aim of this operation is to build an access ramp, which will enable the artificial nourishment of the beaches north of groin 5.
"During the execution of the work in the emerged and submerged areas of the beach, and in order to ensure the safety of people and property, the sand between breakwaters 5 and 4 should not be used for bathing activities until the work in progress is completed. This measure was coordinated with the competent authorities, including the Municipality of Figueira da Foz and the Port Authority of Figueira da Foz. The population is invited to respect the signage on site and to cooperate with the agents in the field, in order to ensure the smooth running of the works and the safety of all," says the APA.
The artificial nourishment works include the beaches between groynes 3 and 5 of Cova-Gala, as well as the reinforcement of the beach platform and dune cordon, from the beach south of groyne 5, over a total length of approximately 1,625 meters. The volume deposited is approximately 3.3 million cubic meters, distributed between the emerged area (approximately 1.8 million m3) and the submerged area (1.5 million m3).
Supported by a Base Project and Execution Project, as well as an Environmental Impact Study prepared in conjunction with these, this project follows the Environmental Impact Assessment process, in which an Environmental Impact Statement was issued with a favorable decision, subject to compliance with numerous terms and conditions. A Cost-Benefit Analysis was also prepared, the positive result of which guarantees the feasibility of the intervention.
Source: https://www.figueiranahora.com/
Photo source: https://www.feriasemportugal.com/