Peel Ports Group has invested £10 million ($12.6 million) on a new outer lock gates at the Port of Liverpool.
The new gates will play a key role in enabling the safe navigation of local vessels, increasing reliability and improved operational efficiencies for port users.
Gladstone Dock has been serving vessels for more than 95 years, with original works completed in 1927.
The Group appointed Ravestein BV as a contractor, which specialises in the fabrication of heavy steel structures, to install the new gates.
The works concluded in May 2023, with the gates expected to be in action for the next 50 years.
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Construction of the gate took place in Holland, with each gate weighing 300 tonnes, and measuring 20 metres for 20 metres wide.
To transport such substantial weight and size, Ravestein BV commissioned a specially-designed barge to make the voyage between Holland and Liverpool.
Marking its maiden voyage, the barge ensured that zero road miles were used for the delivery of the gates, supporting Peel Ports’ ambitious plans to become a net-zero port operator by 2040.
Phil Hall, Mersey Port Director at Peel Ports Group, said: “This latest investment signals our dedication to future proofing our operations at the Port of Liverpool, as well as our commitment to providing a safe and reliable passage for vessels through our waters and ports.
“The new gates will be used for decades to come, helping to create a more efficient and speedy service for cargo owners.”
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The project was delivered as part of Peel Ports’ newly launched partnership programme, which has reportedly facilitated collaborations with leading consultancy firms to deliver multimillion-pound sustainable infrastructure projects.
The facility will have 300 metres of dedicated quayside and state-of-the-art cranes to optimise vessel discharge.
Peel Ports has invested over £1 billion ($1.2 billion) on sustainable infrastructure projects over the last decade, with a further £200 million ($252 million) planned in the next 12 months.
