By
Rebecca Gibson |
Portsmouth International Port is to install 14 automatic quick release mooring hooks to two of its berths, making the arrival and departure processes faster and safer for cross-channel ferries.
Developed by Isle of Wight-based company Strainsall, the £400,000 system will be installed on Berth 3 and Berth 4, reducing the need for port staff to handle heavy mooring ropes on exposed areas of the dock. The system is combined of both single and double hook machines and should be operational by the end of March 2014.
“The Strainstall system will really modernise our operations, an investment that helps to further protect the safety of our workforce,” said Martin Putman, the port’s manager. “I’m personally delighted the most competitive tender for the best system came from a company on the Isle of Wight. That means money stays in the local economy, helping to protect jobs. It also guarantees us a high level of service, with maintenance and spare parts just a short ferry ride away.”
The new investment is the latest in a series of developments at Portsmouth International Port. In 2012, Berth 2 was extended to cater for vessels of up to 240 m, while a wider turning circle was created to improve cruise ship access in 2013.