This week the Ground Force team takes on an unusual project on the banks of the River Stour in Tuckton, Bournemouth. Morna and her husband Matthew live in a typical semi-detached house between Bournemouth and Christchurch and the garden at the back of the house slopes straight down to the river. Before The area consists of a dull patch of sloping concrete and a slipway for a rowing boat. There is a little boat shed, some new wooden posts and although few plants are used, those chosen are big and bold with strong lush foliage. After The end result is a tidy berth where you can wine and dine as life on the river passes by.
Driftwood is laid to rest as a finishing touch to give that extra nautical feel.
Each deck is built with a separate rectangular frame with posts that are concreted in to the bank to make a solid foundation. Grooved planks are used for the decking. The timber is also pressure treated, to make it last longer. The back of the upper deck and the front of the lower deck are supported on legs to hold them level, with the front of the upper frame resting on the back of the lower one. The grooved planks are laid diagonally and planting holes are left at intervals.