The consolidation work on the first 80,000m2 of the first sediment containment basin of Darsena Europa’s future container terminal has been completed seven days ahead of schedule.
Over the past few months, the contractors (Sidra, Fincantieri, Sales, and Fincosit), under the supervision of Port Network Authority (PNA) technicians, have been working tirelessly to compress the ground using a technique known as preloading. This involves a mound of earth and quarry material (preloading) used as a steamroller to “squeeze” the land, forcing water out through drainage outlets. .
The mound of earth has now been moved to the next 80,000m2. The goal is to consolidate the entire sediment basin (37 hectares in total) by June 2027.
Port Network Authority president, Davide Gariglio, expressed his satisfaction. He thanked the companies and PNA technicians: “It is a job well done and completed ahead of schedule thanks to everyone’s professionalism and commitment,” he said.“ I am confident that the work will proceed according to schedule,” he added, stressing the PNA’s sustained effort over the last few years to ensure the network ports become increasingly efficient and competitive. This is reflected in approximately one billion euros in infrastructure funding, a large part of which is destined for the Darsena Europa.
In announcing the completion of this phase, Livorno’s Prefect and designated Commissioner for Darsena Europa, Giancarlo Dionisi, highlighted its importance. “This is a fundamental technical step, which allows the ground to settle in a controlled fashion. It creates the necessary conditions for building the definitive infrastructure,” he said, adding that meeting deadlines and, in this case, finishing ahead of schedule are not secondary considerations. “The credibility of a major infrastructure project, especially in the eyes of investors, is built on facts, verifiable results and commitments being fulfilled,” he said. He thanked the staff and senior managers at the Port Network Authority and the companies operating on the construction site “for their competent, professional work and sense of responsibility.”
Translation by Giles Foster