Hugh Shaw, the Secretary of States Representative for Maritime Salvage and Intervention (SOSREP), was involved throughout and has informed the owner that he has no objection to the plans. Weather permitting, it is estimated that the project will take approximately 12 to 14 weeks. Options examined ranged from righting the vessel (known as par-buckling), cutting it up on-site or a combination of both. The preferred method will involve cargo, trailer and machinery removal, including any debris and any pollutants, whilst maintaining the integrity of the hull. The vessel will be stripped down internally until only the shell remains. The hull will then be cut into manageable pieces and transported for recycling.

The Environment Group has been advised along with DEFRA, the Environment Agency, the Marine and Fisheries Agency and Natural England. All of those parties recognise that, due to the uncertainty and technical difficulties of righting the vessel, cutting up on-site is now the best option.

A Heysham based demolition contractor, Hancock's Contractors, were engaged to cut up the stricken vessel in early April. The company is reported to be working closely with the Environment Agency and was making preparations on-site prior to starting work at the end of last month. One of the first tasks will be to remove any remaining cargo and clean up any traces of oil or other possible pollutants. Work will then commence to dismantle the upper decks and interior, leaving the hull until last. During each stage of the process, anti-pollution measures will be in place to ensure that the beach is not contaminated in any way.

Work will continue around the clock until the job is completed but will be heavily dependent on tides and weather conditions. If all goes well the last remains of the ship will be removed by the end of June.

Riverdance was blown ashore on Cleveleys Beach, North Shore, Blackpool after getting into difficulties and developing a serious list in gale force winds and heavy seas on 31 January.

By Jack Gaston