Better prospects for UK repairer

The Hebburn yard, which suffered a disappointing end to 2011 with the unexpected loss of an aircraft carrier contract, says it has bounced back and with a comprehensive programme of work on five vessels.

Two newly-built subsea construction vessels, chartered by Reef Subsea, have been alongside at Bede Quay undergoing work which includes changes to the exhaust systems and accommodation areas. The vessels were built in China but arrived at A&P in late February for enhancements which the yard says will enable them to better meet the needs of the oil, gas and renewables industries.

A&P Tyne projects director Darren Brown said: “In addition to the exhaust system changes, we are upgrading the accommodation, increasing the number of cabins and shower facilities and supporting the ROV team in rebuilding the ROV control centre. It’s a valuable order, lasting eight to nine weeks.”

The yard also welcomed offshore support vessel Normand Oceanic, part of a large fleet operated by Subsea 7, one of the world’s leading subsea engineering and construction companies. A&P Tyne says it successfully fulfilled four important orders for Subsea 7 last year and is delighted to secure repeat custom.

The 156.9m long Normand Oceanic was at the yard for electrical work for ROV installation, the installation of new cabling and modifications to bulwarks. The job was scheduled to take 17 days of intense work, round-the-clock, with a considerable quantity of equipment to be installed.

Two other vessels – the offshore support ship Highland Prestige and the Ugland UR141 barge were drydocked for general maintenance work and overhauls, lasting between 7-10 days. Mr Brown said: “It’s traditional, dry dock programme work, all of which is very welcome, it keeps business going and people employed.”

The yard is reported to have been extremely successful in recent times, completing a major section of the new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth six weeks ahead of schedule last summer, but it suffered a blow in November when BAE Systems decided to reclaim some carrier work it originally intended to sub-contract to A&P.

Mr Brown said: “We are dealing with some big companies, such as Subsea 7, and we are now becoming the yard of choice in many instances. It’s not always just down to price, it’s quality and schedule and a major factor is safety – and we have an exceptional safety record.”

A&P Tyne managing director Stewart Boak said: “Following a relatively quiet time at the end of 2011, it’s pleasing to now feel a buzz about the yard. The increase in contracts creates an excellent opportunity for A&P to demonstrate that we can deliver high-quality, on-time, cost effective product to our customers. We are now working extremely hard to secure new contracts for the second half of the year to maintain the momentum we have generated this year to date.”

Mr Brown added: “It’s wonderful to see the yard busy again, we have over 200 people working here plus 150 sub-contractors, so it’s a hive of activity.”