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Displaying items by tag: Ro Ro Upgrade

#Ports&Shipping - The Scottish south-western Ports of Ayr and Troon has been further reinforced by the completion of upgrades at Troon harbour, another project aimed at positioning the port for future growth.

According to Associated British Ports (ABP) following extensive off-site works over the winter period, Troon's East pier Ro Ro terminal saw the delivery and installation of six upgraded fender units to improve the ability of the pier to accommodate larger vessels on the berth in all weather conditions.

Completion of this upgrade will allow ferries and other vessels of up to 160m to berth and will also give access to the port’s massive 180 tonne capacity linkspan, which remains the largest on the Clyde.

ABP’s latest investment follows closely on from the delivery of the port’s new Pilot boat, the “MV Scotia” and reinforces gains made at both harbours in recent years.

Commenting on these recent developments Stuart Cresswell Port Manager for Ayr and Troon, said: “The world of shipping never stands still and with a growing trend towards building ever larger vessels, we understand that it is absolutely essential for us to keep investing in our infrastructure and equipment to ensure we can continue to provide an efficient service for all of our customers.

“The fender upgrade at Troon represents a £600,000 investment just shortly after we have taken delivery of our new £700,000 pilot boat. The combination of these improvements will allow us to berth the largest of vessels in all weather conditions, which is an essential requirement for the running any modern port.”

Published in Ports & Shipping

As an island economy, a healthy maritime sector is key to our national competitiveness. Virtually all our imports and exports pass through Irish ports.

Ireland is dependent on ports and shipping services to transport goods and 90% of our trade is moved though Irish ports. Shipping and maritime transport services make a significant contribution to Ireland’s ocean economy, with the sector generating €2.3 billion in turnover and employing over 5,000 people in 2018.

Ireland’s maritime industry continues to grow and progress each year with Irish ports and shipping companies making significant investments. The ports sector in Ireland is currently undergoing a number of expansions and developments with Dublin Port’s Alexandra Basin development, the development of Ringaskiddy in Cork by Port of Cork and the development of Shannon Foynes Port. Along with these major investments, shipping companies are also investing heavily in new tonnage, with Irish Ferries, CLdN and Stena leading new build programmes.

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A recent study carried out for the Irish Ports Association (IPA) totalled 75.7 billion during 2004 and their net economic impact was some 5.5 billion supporting around 57, 500 full time employees.

Liam Lacey, Director of the Marine Institute’s Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) said, “The Irish maritime industry can look to the future with confidence. It has shown itself to be resilient and agile in responding to challenges. Over the past decade, it has had to respond to the challenges of the financial crisis of 2008, the uncertainty surrounding Brexit and recent challenges. Ireland’s maritime sector has continued to underpin our economy by maintaining vital shipping links for both trade and tourism.”