Opportunities in a climate of uncertainty

A mixed picture emerged from the last British Ports Association (BPA) conference. It seems that while the impact of government spending cuts on stakeholders remains unclear, (as does that of the new marine planning regime), there are still signs that trade is picking up and opportunities are there to be seized in other areas such as support of offshore renewables and modal shift .

Sir Alan Massey, head of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) emphasised the vital role that a vibrant and safe port industry plays in the UK economy. Forecasts suggest a need for growth in port capacity to meet future demands, but this is “challenging” whilst business volumes and funding sources remain depressed.

Further, the future face of planning remains hazy. The regional approach centred around Regional Development Agencies seems to be on the way out. In its place a local approach is promoted by government centred on a framework of National Policy Statements for Ports, Transport and Energy and Local Enterprise Partnerships. At the same time, the newly formed Marine Management Organisation (MMO) will be responsible for a significant range of responsibilities including marine licensing and marine planning, an area which is to undergo “comprehensive” development over the next ten years.

Richard Bennett (Department of Transport), Alastair Wilson (Scottish Government) and Robert James (MMO) concurred that the UK’s new austerity government, with its focus on localised approaches, will encourage simplification of regulation and more comprehensive stakeholder engagement .

Opportunities for modal shift

The drive to de-carbonise supply chains is generating interest in options for modal shift. The Freight Trade Association’s Christopher Snelling stressed the need for ports to understand what shippers want, and position accordingly. Shippers operate with a supply chain focus and need cost effective service levels and reductions in ‘carbon per unit transported’ without paying a premium, so they welcome co-operation on innovative approaches, mindful that supply lines should not be jeopardised.

Peter Ward of Freight by Water related the growing interest from a number of shippers in switching from a fixed UK port of entry to using multiple ports and a more regional approach. This ties in with the idea that coastal shipping and modal shift may also be encouraged by increasing oil prices. For example, one British retailer switched to a multiple points concept for its 2009 Christmas logistics programme, using six ports of entry. Following its success, this Christmas sees an expansion to eight regional ports.

Seasonal opportunities may also be a future option for coastal passenger services. Chris Fisher of Fisher Associates presented a pilot study for the development of a service in Lyme Bay and Poole Bay which is aiming to relieve seasonal congestion and provide a viable service to tourists and locals alike. Again, the financing of the infrastructure will be a key factor determining its success.

Working and planning with the local community

“Historically towns and communities grew up around ports and they prospered together,” Bart Derison of Connect reminded us. These relationships have broken down so the question is, “how can we reconnect?” The public’s knowledge of port activities must be improved, emphasising the social and economic relevance of ports to people’s lives. Opening up the port to social events and amenities, visits to and from schools and informative websites are some of the options being considered.

Warrenpoint Harbour Authority (WHA) has reconnected to its community through the redevelopment of the Town Quay. Originally, WHA’s plans to fill in the quay were turned down following fierce local opposition. However, Peter Conway explained that with a new team at WHA, consultations were opened with the community and local businesses, with the result that vibrant life has now returned to the derelict quay with a waiting list for moorings.

Richard Marks of Royal Haskoning explained how Port Master Planning can be a valuable vehicle to engage the local community and stakeholders in future plans illustrated by an ongoing process at Newhaven. He explained how robust future plans can be achieved through consultation, developing and building upon a shared vision which helps provide stakeholders with what they need.

Environmental Challenges

The Port of Workington recounted the results of a short period of severe rain over Cumbria at the end of 2009. The River Derwent was inundated with the loss of bridges and life. Port infrastructure was washed away and 60,000 m3 of sediment deposited in the port.

Despite this, the port was fully operational by 10 January. The experience highlighted important lessons to be shared: Janet Fallon stressed the need to be prepared for climate change impacts, and explained that adequate insurance to cover both loss and remedial work is key.

Environmental Indicators

Dr Chris Wooldridge of Cardiff University reviewed key environmental issues impacting UK and EU ports from the 2009 ESPO/EcoPorts environmental survey. An important barometer are the Top Ten Issues as compared between surveys. Dredging disposal was the number one priority for ports six years ago, while this last survey puts it at number four, with garbage and waste now taking the top spot. Energy consumption (placed at number two) and relationships with the local community have entered the top ten priorities for the first time.

Onshore power supply

James Garvie from RSK introduced onshore power supply (OPS) or cold ironing as a potential solution to reduce ship emissions and improve air quality in ports.

He explained that whilst this may bring benefit to the port and shipping lines it is not a simple solution. OPS development requires close co-operation between the port and the shipping lines to assess feasibility and compatibility.

Additional port power capacity may be required which in the UK may impact on the port’s Carbon Reduction Commitment. The World Ports Climate Initiative (WPCI) has developed a website to support ports considering OPS implementation: www.onshorepowersupply.org.

Delegates may be heartened that whilst the day to day battle to combat the current economic climate continues, there are may be a number of lights on the horizon for the UK Ports Industry. Jim Stewart, BPA Chairman, closed the conference which once again has proved to be a valuable forum for the British Ports Industry to come together ,and share good practice. Delegates are welcomed to the Isles of Orkney – the venue for next year’s event on 20-22 September 2011.

Kate Royston, Robbee Smole Sustainable Business Solutions