A £500,000 excavator involved in the £32 million Aberaeron Coastal Defence Scheme in Wales found itself stranded at sea after an unexpected electrical malfunction.
The incident occurred while the heavy machinery was being used to construct the outer extents of a rock breakwater during low tide.
According to Ceredigion Council, the malfunction occurred as the excavator, part of a fleet working on the coastal project, was engaged in its task.
Despite attempts to repair the fault before the tide came in, the efforts were unsuccessful. As a result, the excavator was left stranded and partially submerged as the tide rose, as captured in dramatic images by local photographer Matthew Cole.
In a statement, a spokeswoman for Ceredigion Council told Herald.Wales: “Efforts were made to repair the excavator prior to the tide turning, but unfortunately these were unsuccessful. Measures were then taken to isolate the electrics and seal all fluid tanks prior to the excavator becoming submerged, and also cap/secure any items where sea water could enter the machine.”
The council has informed Natural Resources Wales about the incident, and discussions are ongoing about how and when the excavator can be recovered from the water.
The Aberaeron Coastal Defence Scheme is a significant project aimed at protecting the Welsh town from coastal erosion and flooding. The works include the construction of a rock breakwater extending from North Pier, the refurbishment and rebuilding of South Pier’s head, the construction of flood walls, the installation of a flood gate at Pwll Cam inner harbour, and improvements to existing defences along South Beach.
