HUMBER PORTS A SIGNIFICANT GATEWAY FOR UK OFFSHORE WIND INDUSTRY, SAYS INSPECTION DIRECTOR
The four ports in Humber are a significant gateway for the UK’s offshore wind industry, according to an industrial inspection director.
Kevin Black, Director of Services and Inspection at IMES International, said the ports in Immingham, Hull, Grimsby and Goole hold the keys to the development of the offshore renewables industry, and that marine and industrial companies should consider investment in the area a wise choice with long-term, positive impacts.
His comments come as the services firm signs a six-figure deal with Associated British Ports (ABP) Humber to ensure the operational integrity of crane and bulk handling rigging equipment across the four ports.
The three-year contract will require full-time riggers to cover the area, bringing IMES’ workforce in Yorkshire up to 17. The new scope of work will ensure ABP’s rigging and wire rope equipment meets safety and operability certifications, through inspection, testing and repair work.
Mr Black continued: “The integrity of crane and associated equipment in these ports is crucial for safe, efficient and productive operations. The Humber ports are of great significance to Yorkshire’s economic make-up, and we’re proud to play our part to ensure it continues.
“The area boasts a hugely talented and knowledgeable workforce, and from our ongoing projects in Yorkshire, we’ve seen first-hand how their skills result in successful projects. We’re looking forward to drawing on Humber’s workforce for our future work in the region.”
The Humber ports will directly service Round 3 windfarms, including Dogger Bank, Hornsea and East Anglia, prompting the creation of two specific port developments at Green Port Hull and Able Marine Energy Park.
Mark Hennessy, ABP Group Technical Authority, said: “ABP are looking forward to establishing a positive and effective relationship over the course of the contract and beyond in order to ensure the continued operation of business throughout the Humber.”
ENDS