Teesport owner invests £1.35m in new "safe and stable" pilot vessel

The owner of a North East port has announced that it has invested £1.35m in a new pilot vessel.

PD Ports, owner of Teesport and legal guardian of the River Tees, has made the investment to enable it to continue to service the river and secure international trade growth opportunities.

The new vessel will facilitate the safe transportation of pilots to and from vessels as they enter the river.

The state-of-the-art Stainsby will replace the Coatham pilot vessel, which will now find a new home at the Port of Tyne after 20 years servicing the River Tees.

The vessel can travel at speeds of up to 24knots, and uses a low emission engine to help keep fuel consumption and environmental impact as low as possible.

Frans Calje, CEO of PD Ports, commented: “As the legal guardians for the River Tees our primary job is ensuring safe navigation for vessels.

“It is our duty to ensure the river is managed safely and effectively when fulfilling its potential to support future trade growth across the Tees Valley and the UK as a whole.

“Together with fellow businesses along the river, Teesport already contributes in excess of £1.4bn to the economy each year.

“This investment will enable Teesport to continue servicing the river and the region as we secure the Tees Valley in pole position for international trade growth opportunities.”

Paul Brooks, harbour master, said: “The arrival of the Stainsby means that we have the best technology, built to the highest engineering standards, which will provide a safe and stable platform for pilots and keep Teesport open for business.

“The pilot vessels, alongside our dedicated crew, are instrumental in keeping the Port operating 24/7, 365 days a year, no matter what challenging conditions we are faced with.”

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