Bridging the future with new ferry facility

A new linkspan has just come into operation at Portsmouth International Port, the latest multi million pound investment in new facilities at Britain’s Best Connected Port.

The linkspan, which is best described as a drawbridge for getting vehicles on and off ferries, is now in use at Berth 4.  It follows a tightly choreographed operation to install after a three day sea crossing from Deest in Holland where it was manufactured.

The old linkspan was over 25 years old and had provided a smooth service for 40,000 ferry movements. Using the latest technology, the linkspan, part of an overall £9million project, is more efficient than the structure it replaces. This has made it eligible for EU PECS (Ports Energy and Carbon Savings) grant funding.  The project is receiving in excess of £500,000 from the Interreg 2 Seas programme 2014-2020, which is co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

Portsmouth International Port has made a number of major investments over the last decade, including an environmentally friendly airport style passenger terminal and extended berthing facilities. The new linkspan continues a drive to provide flexibility in the future as vessels grow larger and maritime markets change.

Mike Sellers, Port Director at Portsmouth International Port, said “Last year we signed a 10 year agreement with Brittany Ferries, agreeing to continue to work closely together. This new linkspan is a symbol of that partnership, with Brittany Ferries being the primary users of Berth 4. The improvements we make made today will serve their vessels of tomorrow.”