Breathe new life into your water course.

Silt Removal, Desilting & Dredging​

Silt Removal, Desilting & Dredging

Over time, the breakdown of organic matter — such as dead leaves, plant debris, and agricultural runoff — causes silt to accumulate on the bed of ponds, lakes and rivers. Left unmanaged, this build-up reduces water depth, increases flood risk, generates unpleasant odours from biological decomposition, and can ultimately threaten the long-term viability of the watercourse itself and the wildlife within it.

Aquatic Solutions UK carries out silt removal, dredging and silt pumping works across watercourses of all sizes. We work carefully to minimise disruption to the surrounding environment, flora and fauna throughout every project.

For more information about our silt removal, desilting and dredging services, get in touch on 01788 810614, or fill out our contact form today.

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Silt Removal Solutions

Often the biggest practical challenge with any silt removal project is managing the spoil — what to do with the material once it’s been removed. Off-site disposal can be very costly, so we focus on finding the most effective on-site solution for each project. Following a free survey, we’ll recommend the most appropriate method for your site.

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Silt Pumping or Silt Dredging Over Flat Land

Where suitable land is available nearby, silt can be pumped or dredged directly out of the water and deposited on land. It can be spread evenly and left for vegetation to re-establish naturally, or stockpiled behind a temporary bund to prevent runoff and allow drying before removal or reuse. Once dried, the material is generally useful as topsoil, for landscaping, raised beds, or as a soil conditioner.

Silt Pumping Using De-Watering & Silt Bags

Silt is pumped directly into geotextile dewatering bags positioned on flat ground. The water drains away through the fabric, leaving a concentrated mass of silt that can be opened and repurposed on-site. As silt is composed largely of decayed organic matter, it makes excellent compost or a nutrient-rich soil amendment for landscaping and planting.

Nicospan bank repair installation

De-silting Using A Nicospan Membrane

Where space around the watercourse is limited, installing a permeable Nicospan membrane along the water’s edge creates a contained area into which silt can be dredged using the Truxor’s clamshell bucket. Water drains back through the membrane, leaving the silt behind to consolidate and dry naturally.

Once the area has dried, it can be planted with marginal vegetation to create an attractive, naturalistic bank edge. The membrane depth, shape and extent can all be tailored to suit your requirements.

We Work With

Environment Agency logo
RSPB logo
Royal Horticultural Society logo
The Wildlife Trusts logo
National Trust logo