Vancouver ‘Barge on the Beach’ deconstruction underway
Posted July 26, 2022 9:04 am.
Last Updated July 26, 2022 9:08 am.
It beached its way into the hearts of Vancouverites eight months ago, but the barge at English Bay is finally being taken apart.
Work is underway to deconstruction what’s affectionately become known as “Barge on the Beach.” The removal process is expected to take up to four months to complete.
A company has begun drilling piles into the shoreline to anchor the barge while it is cut apart and removed.
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The barge broke free of its moorings during a fierce storm and extremely high tide last November.
There were concerns it would hit the Burrard Bridge before it washed up high on the sand and rocks near Sunset Beach, defeating all efforts to drag it free earlier this year.
Happening now: the loose barge. The tugboat. They’re trying. @CityNewsVAN pic.twitter.com/jEkQ66yV0a
— Kier Junos (@kierjunos) November 16, 2021
Vancouver officials say the removal plan will ensure protection of sensitive marine habitat and has been developed in consultation with industry experts, partners, and First Nations groups.
The large structure has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
The Vancouver Park Board even put up a “Barge Chilling Beach” sign, a nod to both “Dude Chilling Park” in the city’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood as well as the popular “Bard on the Beach” outdoor Shakespeare festival. That sign was later vandalized.
With files from The Canadian Press
