The majority of dredged sites within the inner estuary of the Thames, by volume and frequency, are undertaken using water injection dredging (WID), rather than more conventional excavation processes. The technique involves the injection of high volumes of water into the recently deposited seabed sediments.

Is the Thames still dredged?

The site received its Waste Management Licence in 1977, and this has been maintained. The site was acquired by RSPB in 2001, to provide a habitat for overwintering waders. Nevertheless, it continues to receive dredge material.

When was the Thames last dredged?

Regular dredging was undertaken for 50 years on the stretch of river from Datchet to Staines following the 1947 floods, but was stopped in 1996 when the agency took over responsibility.