Whitby builder to expand

Parkol Marine in Whitby, UK, is hoping Scarborough Council will allow them to expand their shipyard premises to bring more work into the yard. The northern end of Eskdale Wharf, which includes the former harbour joinery workshop, was mothballed some time ago and the Council is weighing up what to do about the derelict part of the wharf.

Parkol Marine, which occupies most of the wharf, has made an approach to the council concerning an offer to rebuild a vessel, which could create a large number of jobs. Parkol owner Jim Morrison said it would be difficult if someone else was to use the land.

He said: “It is a question of space. When we have to bring in the crane to move boats it will not be easy if someone is using that property. We are the busiest shipyard in the UK and if we had that extra land it would bring in more work.”

He continued by saying “We have a tug in the harbour right now that, if the joiners workshop was not there, we could lift out of the water and start work on. “The shipyard is currently working on its largest-ever ship ? a 21.5m trawler ? but is hoping to start work this week on an even bigger vessel which measures in at 22.8m.

The head of Whitby harbour services said: “They confirm that they have full order books for some time in the future and feel the need in any event for more space in the long term to promote their boat-building and repair business.” He also said that there is no doubt the future of the whole wharf is linked to the shipbuilding company but councillors are being urged to draw up terms for the lease so competitive bids can be sought.