02 April 2007
A crane that has been in place on the North Quay, since 1971, a "Scotch Derrick", is to be replaced in the summer by Jersey Harbours. This is the first stage of Jersey Harbours' five year crane strategy where five of seven cranes will be scrapped and replaced by two cranes.
With over 98% of all goods arriving into the Island through the port it is important that Jersey Harbours provide a modern, commercial and efficient port, to serve the Island.
Today’s ports have to work with containerised traffic, and not the loose bulk cargo the cranes currently in use were designed for. The change in freight distribution is to maximise economic efficiencies and to meet health and safety standards.
The "Scotch Derrick" which by modern standards is slow and out of date has reached the end of its economic and operational life, and the work practices associated with it no longer comply with European Health and Safety standards for safe working on top of containers on board ship
The Deputy Harbour Master, Captain Peter Moore, said, “Jersey Harbours have maintained this crane past its sell by date. If it keeps on breaking down the insurance company may withdraw cover. More importantly, if it breaks down frequently Jersey Harbours may have to move cargo vessels to Victoria Pier. This move would cause delays and incur extra costs.”
The replacement crane will maximise the use of quay space and give the port a greater flexibility to distribute goods from a ro-ro and lo-lo ramp. Having two options for the despatch and receiving of goods will ensure Jersey Harbours will remain competitive in both markets, and continue to provide an economical, beneficial life line to the Island.
Notes
For more information please contact
Captain Peter Moore, Deputy Harbourmaster tel no 885588
gov.je