Southampton ship repairer raises game with 1,000 tonne lift facility
A leading Southampton-based ship repairer has stepped up its facilities to customers with a 1,000 tonne lift facility in Portsmouth harbour.
Testbank Ship Repair and partners Trafalgar Wharf unveiled the Rolls Royce syncrolift, one of the biggest of its kind in the South, at a cable cutting ceremony. Guests watched as the hull of the Serco Denholm vessel, 'Teesdale', was given a six-metre vertical lift for repairs and inspection.
Testbank Managing Director Jason Coltman said the lift had been brought back into use after a period spent out of commission and is capable of handling a wide range of contracts including superyachts, pilot boats, tugs, commercial ferries and naval vessels.
Mr Coltman said: "Before having the ship lift facility we were compelled to use other companies to slip our clients' vessels, but now we can be a one-stop shop for complete projects at our own location."
Trafalgar Wharf has been developing the ex-Vosper Thornycroft location in Portsmouth harbour since last September. It is ideal for boat operators of all sizes to take their vessels for lifting, launching, storage and repair. Thirty-five commercial tenants are now on site.
Jonny Boys, Managing Director of Trafalgar Wharf, said: "Testbank are a fast growing, forward thinking ship repair company. Being able to work with them is excellent news for us and the site as a whole. They share in our vision to resurrect this important site for marine uses."
Trafalgar Wharf is a 24-acre waterside side at the top of Portsmouth harbour offering facilities and commercial space for marine companies of all sizes. Spaces are available from 70 sq ft to a massive 70,000 sq ft.
Testbank took on the management of the Trafalgar Wharf ship lift facility in Portsmouth harbour in June 2009.
All the facilities at Trafalgar Wharf, including the ship lift, are available for public use by arrangement.
For more information visit http://www.testbank.co.uk.
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