UK port first sees centralised air traffic systems applied to marine ops

Peel Ports Group, the UK’s second biggest port operator, is investing £2.7m across its network of seven Statutory Harbour Authorities to streamline marine operations.

“This is a huge advance for our customers, our people and port operations generally,” said David Huck, deputy chief operating officer at Peel Ports.

“The technology will allow us to provide a more efficient, more resilient and safer service and will ensure that Peel Ports Group has a port control platform aligned to the group’s future growth plans.”

The operator has already introduced AutoGates in Liverpool and the Navis N4 terminal operating system across its network, including the new Liverpool2 deep-water container terminal, so it is well aware of how centralised technology can speed up operations.

Peel’s new package of technologies includes vessel identification and tracking, solid-state radar and weather stations. It will be complemented by a new online booking system for its customers and a comprehensive people development programme.

All marine operations will transition over the coming months and will be managed centrally from a new industry-leading command centre at the company’s headquarters in Liverpool. There will be supporting control operations and smaller satellite operations throughout the company’s port network that includes seven UK Statutory Harbour Authorities.