LEADING THE CHARGE TO BOOST UK EXPORTS

Transcription

1 News from Britain s Leading Port Operator LEADING THE CHARGE TO BOOST UK EXPORTS How ABP and its customers are investing for growth CONTENTS Autumn 2016 p6 Brett Aggregates confidence in ABP p10 Port of Ayr records busiest day in 25 years p13 First vessels berth at Green Port Hull Keep in touch online

2 welcome 2.3m warehouse investment at the Port of Newport Message from James At ABP we say we are Keeping Britain Trading. But what does that mean? This edition of Ports Talk makes that abundantly clear. It s not just us of course, it s our customers. Our ports form a vital link in their supply chains, connecting Britain to global markets. Our investment in vehicle handling in Southampton is a fantastic example see page four. As British automotive manufacturers scale up production to meet spiralling global demand, ABP s role is to ensure that we have the capacity to continue to deliver their product swiftly to international markets. We have a proud track record of investing in Southampton to deliver facilities for UK manufacturers. This investment means that Southampton is now the UK s leading export port by value, handling some 40 billion of exports every year. Of that total, 36 billion of exports are destined for markets outside of the EU, making Southampton s role increasingly significant as Britain looks to increase its trade with the rest of the world post Brexit. While Southampton neatly demonstrates the point, the same is true right across the group, from ball clay manufacturers exporting through Teignmouth, to timber producers accessing markets out of Ayr to farmers in East Anglia, who rely on our port of Ipswich to the extent that it is again the UK s biggest grain export port see facing page. Our customers are telling us we are making progress and that they are starting to feel the difference see page 15, but it s not the same story across the group and we are still some way off the level we need to be operating at. If Britain is to continue to prosper outside of the EU, then we will need our manufacturers to operate at the top of their game. For them to deliver, they in turn will need ABP to do the same. Work has started on a 2.3 million project to develop new warehousing space at the Port of Newport to accommodate the increasing agriculture-related cargo volumes at the port. Once completed, it will provide an additional 3,500 square metres of covered storage for the port. The investment also includes provision of new weighbridges to help improve operational efficiency during cargo handling. Between 2009 and 2014, the Port of Newport saw its agribulk operations increase by 118% from handling 139,329 tonnes to 283,770. South Wales Director Matthew Kennerley said: Over the last five years we have seen agribulk cargo volumes increase steadily through the port, driven by the needs of the domestic agricultural industry and the bio-energy sector. We are committed to ensuring that our facilities are market leading, able to accommodate increasing cargo volumes and able to adapt to the commercial requirements of our customers. This investment follows on from more than 15 million that has been spent at the Port of Newport during the last two years to ensure that Welsh and UK industries, who are seeking to access deep sea global markets, can do so as effectively and efficiently as possible. James Cooper Chief Executive From left to right: Mark Bowen, Andrew Scott Managing Director, Chris Green, ABP Port Manager Cardiff and Newport, and Glyn Duggan, Andrew Scott Project Manager at the site where the new warehousing space will be located. Image courtesy of Holli Abraham, HA Photography 2 Autumn 2016

3 Ipswich breaks grain handling record The Port of Ipswich, the UK s number one grain exporting port, has handled more than one million tonnes of grain in the 2015/16 harvest year, a record total for the port and its customers. In the last harvest year, approximately 1,093,481 tonnes of grain were handled, surpassing the previous best year in 2009/10 where 933,000 tonnes passed through the port. It s also a third increase on last year s total of 822,448. Short Sea Ports Director Andrew Harston said: The tonnage of grain we have seen handled at the Port of Ipswich in the recent harvest year signifies the importance of the East Anglian farming community. Britain has always had a strong role in exporting grains such as wheat to the rest of Europe. But following a steady grain season and the recent decline in the value of sterling, the export of wheat and other grain commodities has never been more competitive. Our customers Nidera and Clarkson Port Services, who operate the Ipswich Grain Terminal and Sentinel Terminal respectively, have seen tremendous results this year and we look forward to working with them to ensure further success in the 2016/17 year. In the first half of 2016 alone, 563,760 tonnes of grain were exported from the Port of Ipswich an increase from the first half of 2015 which saw 368,795 tonnes exported. In the 2015/16 harvest year, 750 ships called at the Port of Ipswich, a 17% increase from the previous harvest year. Autumn

4 exporting is great Leading the charge to boost UK exports As ABP signs a Memorandum of Understanding with the Exporting is GREAT campaign, the Port of Southampton announces a 50 million investment into new handling facilities for British-made vehicles. 4 Autumn 2016 ABP is leading the charge to boost UK exports, by announcing a 50 million investment in vehicle handing facilities to support the continued growth of exports through Southampton. The capacity of the vehicle handling facilities will increase by more than a third, with more car spaces available for British made vehicles ready to be exported globally. And in another development underlining ABP s commitment to help boost UK exports, ABP has signed an MOU with the Government s Exporting is GREAT campaign. Already the UK s leading export port, with 40 billion of British manufactured goods passing through each year, Southampton is also the country s number one for vehicle handling. In 2015, more than 900,000 vehicles passed through the port, including 520,000 for export. Southampton is a key route for British brands to access international markets and this investment will allow exporters to take advantage of the global demand for British-made vehicles. Liam Fox, International Trade Secretary The first 25 million tranche of the investment will deliver two new vehicle handling facilities, together capable of storing 7,600 vehicles on route from UK factories to global markets. The second phase of investment will see a further two facilities built. Ultimately, the investment will add a further 15,000 spaces to

5 the port s capacity and take the total number of vehicle handling facilities in Southampton to nine, capable of carrying 55,000 vehicles. International Trade Secretary Liam Fox said: This investment is positive news not just for Southampton, but for our worldclass automotive industry as a whole. Southampton is a key route for British brands to access international markets and this investment will allow exporters to take advantage of the global demand for Britishmade vehicles. Director Southampton Alastair Welch added: ABP has already invested more than 32 million over the past five years to support the growth in vehicle exports. We continue to work closely with our customers to ensure that this growth can be sustained. The investment is testimony to the performance of the Port of Southampton and will help increase the port s vital contribution to the regional and national economy. ABP is also supporting the Exporting is GREAT campaign which was launched in November Driven by the Department for International Trade, its main objective is to see 30,000 UK registered businesses who are new to export start selling their goods and services overseas by As some 95% of the nation s trade in goods move by sea, working together with the Exporting is GREAT campaign is vital in highlighting how ports are the key link to providing British businesses with access to global markets. As part of ABP s commitment to boosting exports, we have partnered with the Port of Dover and CBI to launch the Maritime Nation campaign. We believe that we should be proud to be part of a maritime nation, and Maritime Nation aims to raise awareness of the vital contribution that the UK marine and maritime sector provides to the economy. Maritime Nation reminds us that the UK relies on the sea for trade. There is significant potential for maritime manufacturing and service to drive exports. Over the coming months, Maritime Nation will roll out of a series of events and initiatives. The first major initiative will be an event to celebrate the anniversary of the Exporting is GREAT campaign at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in November. This event will bring together a range of businesses, not just those working in the sector, but also those who rely on the sector to successfully trade overseas. A promotional video has been launched which can be viewed on the Maritime Nation website: maritimenation.co.uk Autumn

6 customer feature Confidence in strong relationships built with ABP over many years has allowed Brett Aggregates to invest for the future at Ipswich. Founded in 1909, Brett Aggregates is the largest independent producer of sand and gravel in the UK, serving London, the East and South East of England. Its operation at Ipswich includes marine sand and gravel production of about 200,000 tonnes per annum and this is expected to rise over coming years. In 2015 the largest self-discharge stone import Ipswich had ever handled 9,600 tonnes of ballast for processing arrived at the East Anglian port on the MV Victor Horta. This has continued in 2016 with Brett Aggregates already bringing in three more cargoes of the same size. Brett Aggregates has recently invested in a substantial refurbishment and upgrade of its aggregates processing plant at Ipswich, which was completed in January of this year. This has not only given the company capacity to handle large shipments now arriving on a regular basis but also positioned it well to meet future demand. Eastern Area General Manager for Brett Aggregates Adam Smith said the company enjoys working with ABP in a relationship based on openness, resourcefulness and a can-do attitude. We have regular meetings with ABP, they have a pragmatic approach to issues we have and are always open to discuss new opportunities with locally-based key contacts to assist in getting to solutions in a timely manner. The relationship has been built over a decade of co-operation and dialogue between Ipswich port management and Brett Aggregates Development Director Oliver Brown, as well as on a daily basis between key staff at Ipswich. Head of Operations at the Port of Ipswich Andy Constable characterised the partnership as established, professional and cooperative. We have daily contact with the Brett team on an operational level involving myself, our Operations Manager and Berthing Officer. Our Harbour Master is also involved in technical discussions in relation to river transit and berthing prior to the introduction of new vessel types to the port. We have regular meetings with ABP, they have a pragmatic approach to issues. Adam Smith, Eastern Area General Manager, Brett Aggregates Strategically we have ongoing dialogue with Development Director at Brett Aggregates Oliver Brown in relation to potential business opportunities and property matters. Before taking up his current position Oliver was Brett Aggregates Operations Director, which means he has a really good working knowledge of the port. Ipswich is among Brett Aggregates 32 quarry sites and wharfs in London, the South East and East of England from where it supplies building and civil engineering contractors, smaller companies and individuals with a wide range of traditional and recycled products. At Ipswich, the company imports marine dredged ballast and processes it on-site in its aggregate processing plant for onward sale. The site is both rail and road linked and the material is onwardly distributed throughout Suffolk, Essex and London, primarily for use in concrete production, including Brett Aggregates own concrete plants. Notably, sand exported from Ipswich in the past has been used to produce precast concrete segments for the 15 billion Crossrail project for a new high-speed rail network in London. The site also handles various sizes of hardstone for local asphalt production and supply to local infrastructure contracts. Brett Aggregates also offers aggregate stevedoring services at Ipswich. Adam said: The Port of Ipswich complements our other operations in Suffolk. We have four land-based quarries and with Ipswich we have a great coverage of the Eastern aggregates market. 6 Autumn 2016

7 He added: Our dedicated and skilled people have contributed massively to the ongoing success of the Ipswich site. They have ensured the smooth and efficient operation of the site, ensuring a seamless service during the refurbishment and upgrade of the aggregates processing plant. Their role is the cornerstone of our success so far and key to our reputation of delivering for our customers. Crucially, the reintroduction of bulk rail freight into Ipswich port by ABP and the improvement of rail marshalling areas on neighbouring Network Rail infrastructure have played a major role in providing the pre-conditions for investment by such firms as Brett Aggregates. Andy said he expected to see a greater proportion of imported product leaving the port by rail in the future. ABP and Brett Aggregates would expect to be positioned to maximise opportunities at Ipswich in coming years by building on a solid platform underpinned by this successful working relationship. Confidence is the key to the strong working relationships and investing in the future with ABP. BRETT AGGREGATES LEAVES NO STONE UNTURNED Autumn

8 health & safety Health & Safety update by Peter Wilkinson, Group Head of Health & Safety By now many of our employees would have attended the Beyond Zero orientation workshops which are being rolled out across the business. These four-hour workshops bring a completely different approach to the way health and safety is promoted in ABP. This is a far more inclusive approach designed to get the commitment of each person by taking a different view on their safety, and the safety of their colleagues, by making it relevant, personal and important. By encouraging conversations and discussing our attitude to safety we can improve our relationships with each other and in turn safety. By doing this together, we can accomplish a lot more and improve on our personal and joint relationships to safety. These four-hour workshops are only a part of the process. Management have attended a two-day commitment workshop and regional leadership teams are carrying out two-day leadership workshops. More sessions will follow as we promote safety through the Beyond Zero process in the weeks, months and years to come. At the moment Beyond Zero is positioned as a safety initiative, however it reaches far beyond safety and will underpin how we all behave as ABP employees in the future. It is, however, a choice that we must all make. Going home safely every day is a choice. Following safety procedures is a choice. Taking responsibility for your safety and that of others is a choice. Speaking up about something unsafe is a choice. There are more choices we can make but by making them, we can make our workplace safer for everyone. 8 Autumn 2016 Beyond Zero on the road A twenty-foot container converted into a cinema has toured ABP s ports to educate workers on the importance of road safety. ABP s latest safety campaign toured the UK in a bid to educate port workers about the dangers of working in busy environments with high volumes of traffic. A 20-foot container containing a cinema made its way 2,500 miles across the UK promoting greater awareness around road safety during the summer. Port workers were given the opportunity to watch two short movies produced by ABP which focused on the impact of poor safety practice and its affect on not only the worker, but their colleagues, family and friends. Working in a port environment requires workers to use their senses differently and the purpose of the road safety container is to highlight the importance of our senses in such a busy environment with roads that are being used by more than just cars. The event was a Beyond Zero initiative, which is a long-term journey to create a behaviourbased safety culture within ABP. The aim is for all employees to do the right thing, every time. The Beyond Zero Road Safety tour was a particularly important aspect of the Beyond Zero journey. Evidence shows that there is almost no real understanding by pedestrians or cyclists of the field of vision from a HGV cab. As such an exercise was set up to enable both parties to experience the other s perspective first-hand, and highlight how important it is for everyone to stay vigilant when in a mixed vehicle and pedestrian working environment. The event attracted over 300 people across each of the ports, including customers and tenants.

9 Electrical Project Engineer and Safety Representative on the Humber David Humphreys speaks to Ports Talk about why ABP s safety initiative Beyond Zero should be embraced by everyone. Everyone reading this will be aware of the intense focus ABP currently has on safety, and rightly so. But despite this, as a group we are still behind the current targets and events across the group sadly remind us of the dangers while at work. Many people around the group may remember safety drives of the past and may initially greet Beyond Zero with cynicism and scepticism. True, there is a certain absolutism of zero which makes it seemingly unattainable, however there is no refuting that the quest for zero incidents, injuries or fatalities will make ABP safer than ever. Some may ask, what makes it different this time round? We ve all witnessed change around the organisation and will all have our personal views, but I think it s safe to say we can all agree on the importance of adjusting our stance on safety. Beyond Zero isn t just about statistics, it is about instilling a positive safety culture and promoting positive attitudes around health, safety and environmental issues regardless of our region or department. However, the compliance teams around the group can t succeed on their own, they are reliant on the help and support of the workers on the ground and at the heart of ABP. A key component of Beyond Zero is giving colleagues the confidence to speak up. If something doesn t quite look right, it probably isn t. We all need to take ownership and be confident enough to stand up for safety. There is a huge risk in choosing to look the other way. Standing up for safety could take many forms, from stopping people onsite and questioning their lack of PPE, to submitting a Spot-It form to highlight hazards of a working procedure. Spot-Its can be completed and submitted confidentially and may seem like a simple tool, but they are an effective, proven way to improve working practices and eliminate workplace hazards. The reporting of accidents and near misses is fundamental to highlighting failures in management systems, hazards, potential risks or potential improvements. It is important to understand why these failures/incidents transpired to put processes in place to prevent recurrence. The management teams have never been more supportive of safety and are keen to listen and understand the day-to-day issues and hazards which could be present on our ports. I would encourage everyone to get involved to make ABP a great, safe place to work. Don t look the other way, remember, safety starts with you. If it doesn t look right, challenge it, report it and ultimately stop it. Autumn

10 news Port of Ayr has busiest day since 1991 A series of onshore wind farm projects in Scotland see an increase of traffic at the port. Picture: Eddie Allison, Advanced Aerial Media 10 Autumn 2016

11 The Port of Ayr recorded one of its busiest days in the last 25 years, with five vessels calling at the port. Overall, it was one of the busiest weeks in Ayr in a generation, with ten vessels calling at the port four of those for renewable energy projects. The last time the port saw this level of activity was when 1.1 million tonnes of open cast coal was exported through Ayr in Today, as the UK energy industry transitions to renewable energy sources, the boost in ship numbers has been a result of growing demand to serve wind farm projects underway in the south-west of Scotland. The record day saw the port become a hub of activity with five ships calling in Ayr, each accommodating different cargoes such as onshore wind turbine components, coal exports and timber discharge. Wind turbine components were delivered for three separate renewable energy projects: The MV Abis Bergen and MV Fehn Pollux delivered wind turbine blades for the Brockloch Rig wind farms; The MV Arctic Rock arrived with wind turbine blades for the Dersalloch wind farm; and The MV Dragonera delivered tower sections and the nacelle for the Minnygap wind farm. Port Manager for Ayr and Troon Stuart Cresswell said: Along with our traditional agribulk and mineral business, the wind turbine contracts we have secured this year have provided a fantastic boost to the port and all our local supporting contractors and suppliers. Short Sea Ports Director Andrew Harston said: Following our success in supporting additional cruise calls this year, we are now actively supporting the development of more renewable power in south west Scotland. The location of ABP s Ayrshire ports places them in close proximity to these onshore wind farms. The Ports of Ayr and Troon are equipped and ready to work with renewable energy companies to serve their projects. This has been a strong period for our two Scottish ports. ABP is continually investing in the ports to underpin the important regional role they fulfil in serving the needs of the Ayrshire region and the west coast of Scotland. Autumn

12 news ABP Southampton to double in excitement in 2017 Following from the first two successful ABP Southampton Half Marathon and 10K events, organisers have announced that next year s event on 23 April 2017 will also include a full marathon. Southampton Director Alastair Welch said: We are delighted to be supporting the first marathon in the city for around 30 years, and following the popularity of the ABP Half Marathon and 10K races, we believe this will be a hugely successful event. We re looking forward to involving even more local businesses, charities and raising funds for causes across the region, as well as encouraging keen runners to take part and see the best that Southampton has to offer. Registration for next year s event is now open. ABP employees can register for free using the following code: DOCKGATE4. More information can found at: abpsouthamptonhalf.co.uk Barrow welcomed largest cruise vessel to ever call at the port When the MS Braemar called at the port, it was the second cruise vessel to stop at Barrow in a two-month period. The Fred. Olsen Cruise vessel is 196 metres in length and can accommodate over 900 passengers, making it the largest cruise ship to visit since the port s first cruise call in While cruise ships are today not a regular sight at the Port of Barrow, the port has a long association with the industry dating back 100 years, including when the then Vickers-Armstrongs shipyard built the 12 Autumn 2016 Strath Class Liners for the Peninsular & Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O) in the 1930s. Short Sea Ports Director Andrew Harston said: The Port of Barrow is best known today for its role as a base for manufacturing submarines. However, the arrival of MS Braemar, following the visit of the Saga Pearl II last month shows that the port is capable of handling a wide variety of vessels for different customers. The benefit of hosting cruise vessels here at Barrow is that we are able to showcase Barrow and the Lake District area to tourists from all over the UK and the world. It boosts the region s profile and tourist numbers, and will provide economic benefit to the local communities. The area has a lot of attractions to entice cruise companies and their passengers. With the port well-equipped to handle cruise calls, we hope to see more cruise ships at Barrow in the future. Picture: Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines.

13 First vessels berth on Green Port Hull quayside Two vessels are welcomed at newly constructed berths at Green Port Hull. The newly constructed berths built as part of the Green Port Hull development on Alexandra Dock in Hull have welcomed their first vessels. The vessels, Stema Shipping s MV Bulknes and MV Beltnes, used the berths to deliver almost 400,000 tonnes of crushed stone from Norway, which will be used to surface the Siemens site. Bringing the stone by sea will remove 20,000 truck deliveries from the road network. Three berths have been built by ABP to accommodate wind installation vessels (WIV) visiting the Siemens facility. The new quayside measures 620 metres and offers a continuous berthing face. Head of Projects Humber Simon Brett said: It s fantastic to see vessels using the new facilities and testing out our construction. All berthings have gone very smoothly which fills us with confidence for the arrival of the first wind installation vessels early next year. We re delighted to see this investment become operational, giving life to a project that is already creating jobs and that will make a significant contribution to the regional and national economy. The ships have been brought in by the GRAHAM Lagan Construction Group Joint Venture (JV) which is ABP s main contractor for the enabling works on site. The stone is being discharged at a rate of approximately 3,000 tonnes per hour via an on-board conveyor system and a boom, which deposits the cargo directly onto the quayside. The vessels, which brought the cargo from Jelsa in Norway, measure 176 metres in length and have a 26-metre beam. Autumn

14 news Grimsby Open day 200,000 lifeline for historic hoist The 100-year-old boat hoist standing guard over the Port of Goole s South Dock is undergoing a 200,000 programme of refurbishment that will guarantee its future, thanks to ABP and Historic England. The Grade II structure was built in 1912 to transfer coal coming down the inland waterways into the holds of waiting ships ready for export, but it hasn t been used since the closure of Yorkshire s coal mines in the 1980s. Restoration works were last undertaken in 2006 and this latest programme of restoration saw a 135,000 investment by ABP, which was matchfunded by Historic England. The entire project is expected to be complete by Port Manager for Hull and Goole Mark Frith said: We have always been mindful of the importance of the hoist to the people of Goole and of our role as custodians of the structure. We began discussions with Historic England in early 2015 and it was agreed that we would work together to ensure the necessary maintenance and repairs were carried out to guarantee the building s future for the port and for the people of Goole. The hoist is a unique reminder of Goole s industrial heritage and we re delighted that its future is now secure. Historic England provided a grant of 105,500 to carry out additional work to refurbish the Tipping Ram House. The works are due to be completed over the coming weeks at a combined cost of 235, Autumn 2016 More than 5,000 people visited Grimsby s Royal Dock to take advantage of a free open day organised by ABP. The event was arranged to celebrate National Armed Forces Day, which attracted around 200,000 people to Grimsby and Cleethorpes the day before. As well as plenty of family-friendly activities such as bouncy castles, face painting and pilot launch trips around the dock complex, visitors were also able to get on board a number of vessels including Sandown class Mine Countermeasures Vessel HMS Blyth, TS Royalist and an offshore wind operations and maintenance vessel courtesy of Windcat Workboats. Patrol boats HMS Ranger and HMS Blazer were also on display and visitors were serenaded by the Sea Cadets band as they enjoyed ice creams on the quayside. Humber Director Simon Bird said: The weekend was absolutely superb and the borough did an excellent job of celebrating National Armed Forces Day. The displays and parades were thoroughly enjoyable and as the Naval vessels were berthed at the Port of Grimsby, we opened up the gates to allow people onto Royal Dock to see them up close. The open day was a huge success. Thousands of people were able to enjoy a day out exploring the dock seeing vessels they wouldn t ordinarily see and we were delighted to be able to join in the celebrations and provide an event that everyone could enjoy.

15 customer survey Progress has been made as we improve our customer service After two years in post, ABP Commercial Director Jens Nielsen updates Ports Talk on the evolution of the company s commercial offer and the results of the latest customer survey. You ve been at ABP two years now what progress have we made? Our customers are telling us that we have made some progress over the last couple of years but we have more to do. It is still too early to claim we have reached the levels we re aspiring to but we know exactly what we need to do to keep improving. We ve got better at delivering continuous improvement and definitely have a greater focus on customers and quality of service. Essentially, we ve given ourselves a strong platform. I think we have a clear structure now within commercial and property that has enabled us to work much more closely together across ports and regions. This is important as our customers expect us to be an easy company to work with. Our new Key Account Management approach is making a difference in this respect, providing customers with one clear point of contact and importantly establishing account teams, which are responsible for looking after our customers interests across all of our ports and activities. Our Industry Teams have made very positive contributions, providing constructive, new ideas and solutions, which are now firmly embedded in our regional strategy plans for delivery. The teams have also worked hard to develop new value propositions and marketing material, which we look forward to launching during the autumn. I m also pleased with how the CRM implementation has gone so far and I m looking forward to the next phase of the project this autumn. I fully expect the system to become an integral part of how we operate and manage our business. The exciting changes in the property department are among the most radical changes ABP is making as part of our Business Transformation project. We re investing in additional regional resources and are also establishing four new functions in our central support centre: Estate Management Lead, Property Data Manager, Building Surveyor and Property Development Manager. These will bring increased focus on property development, transform the quality of our data and our ability to use it constructively as well as ensure we at all times are compliant, enhance the appearance of our estate and improve service levels to our customers. The ABP estate consists of nearly 12,000 acres of land. It is a significant portfolio and we need to ensure it is managed to the highest standards in order to provide successful platforms for our customers and deliver maximum returns for our owners. Are we where you hoped we would be are we on track? I m by nature impatient, so I would have to say that we re not fully on track in all areas. We have been set back by slower than expected recruitment and there s more to be done in terms of getting the message of customer focus spread to all corners of the company. I am though very encouraged and appreciative of the support I ve been given by all of the regions and am confident we will deliver on our targets. What are our customers telling us? We ve just conducted our latest customer satisfaction survey with a cross section of our business. The overall average was 4.11 on a scale from 1-6 and 3.79 on the specific question how satisfied are you overall with ABP s services? The response to this specific question from the same customers in last year s survey was 3.24, which represents a 17% improvement. It shows that we re making progress, but there s more to do. The survey tells us ABP is seen by our customers as Being good at managing our responsibilities as a Harbour Authority Having a positive and visible safety and compliance culture A company that our customers can trust and is increasingly easy to do business with Improving our cargo handling services However we need to be better at Notifying customers of problems and resolving them, Improving the accuracy of our invoicing Empowering our staff to make decisions Being open to new ideas and proactively supporting our customers trade We will be working closely with the regions to identify strategies for improvement which will be actioned and implemented during the autumn. What is holding us back? I m not sure anything is holding us back, but there are real challenges. We need to be excellent at managing change, embracing change and be open to new ideas. It is not easy in particular at supervisory and front line level, where you re faced with the immediate operational and human impact of any changes we re making. We as senior management have to get better at explaining the changes we wish to make and why. Communication with front line staff and listening to their experience is critical and is an area where we need to improve. I m confident Talking ABP will help us achieve this and that together we will reach our objectives. What are you most proud of achieving in your time here so far? I think it s too early to start talking about achievements. We can only do that when we have reached our target of a customer satisfaction score of five or above in everything we do and we re seeing significant and sustained growth in our revenue line. Job only just started, we still have more to do. Autumn

16 news Southampton to upgrade Fresh Produce Terminal The Port of Southampton has announced an 8.3 million upgrade for specialist facilities at its Fresh Produce Terminal to allow it to undertake a much faster, more energy-efficient operation at its cargo-handling terminal. The port will install two top-of-the-range mobile cranes and refurbish its cool store and chilled produce processing area, with work starting in the next couple of months. The terminal is operated by Solent Stevedores and was originally developed for the handling of tomatoes imported from the Canary Islands between October and April. Refurbishments will expand the cool store s temperature range and chilled storage capacity, which means the port can handle more cooled fruit as well as other temperature-controlled, high-value products. Terex Port Solutions will supply the new cargo-handling cranes. The diesel-electric harbour equipment will replace four older cranes on the quayside, available to handle critical project cargoes such as turbine components and yachts. ABP awarded the refurbishment contract to Hampshire-based Brymor Construction. The development will involve updating the warehouse to provide a range of temperatures and improve lighting, hygiene and welfare facilities. Southampton Director Alastair Welch said: This latest 8.3 million investment to improve port facilities will ensure we develop our capabilities to meet the increasing demands of the Fresh Produce Terminal into the future. The proposals to install new, more efficient harbour cranes and improved temperature controlled warehouse facilities together with the use of new energy efficient lighting and chilling technology will greatly enhance our customer offer. Owner and CEO of Solent Stevedores Stuart Cullen said: This is another example of Solent Stevedores working in harmony with ABP to improve port facilities in Southampton. As a result of our joint enterprise, 15 million has been invested over the past ten years to improve port infrastructure. This continuing investment has not only contributed towards significant additional tonnage being handled in the Port of Southampton, but has resulted in a 500% increase in the number of full-time staff employed by Solent Stevedores. 16 Autumn 2016

17 environment River Afan to benefit from renovation project Work has begun on a major renovation project that will strengthen and improve Green Park Weir on the River Afan in Port Talbot. The Green Park Weir Improvement Project is the result of several years of collaboration and investment between members of the River Afan Water Management Group who have been working in partnership to deliver Sustainable Natural Resource Management at the site. The group brings together key stakeholders and is composed of ABP, Natural Resources Wales, Tata Steel (UK) Ltd, Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, and the Afan Valley Angling Club. ABP has awarded the contract for the renovation work to local construction company Andrew Scott and the complex project is expected to take about eight months to complete, depending on river flows. These necessary improvement works to the weir will provide huge benefits to the River Afan in terms of water management, increased water security for local businesses, and safeguarding the well-being of future generations in the Port Talbot area. Once completed, the works will also have a positive impact on the migratory fish stocks of the river as it will allow for easier passage while improving existing conditions and developing more sustainable fish populations in the river. Projects Engineer Bob Slorach said: This job is complicated because of the need to rebuild the whole weir while working within the river itself and maintaining river flows and flows to the docks for navigation and the steel works. This means available working areas are very restricted. However, the project is vital in order to ensure the future of the river management and the local economy. Green Park Weir has been in its present form since the 1890s which is why it is now in need of repair and strengthening. The weir exists to impound water in the Afan which flows down a feeder channel to Port Talbot dock, providing water for dock operations and to Tata Steel (UK) for cooling and other essential purposes in the Port Talbot Steelworks. Building bridges with biodiversity Understanding biodiversity across our 21 ports is important. One of our key objectives at ABP is to ensure the biodiversity at our sites are well understood and conserved. We have plenty of examples which we can be proud of. After engaging with the local community in Ayr, we have started tree planting; we work in partnership with the Humber Conservation Volunteers; in Immingham we are preserving protected woodland and at King s Lynn the staff are protecting cormorants. In Cardiff, the port has taken its commitment to the environment one step further. Around 20,000 square metres of land at the port have been left undisturbed for the development of wildflowers and natural habitats. To kick-start this biodiversity development, indigenous wildflowers were sown in some of these areas to create meadow habitat. These unmanaged areas are left to grow naturally and only cut twice per year after the flowers have pollinated. Staff in Cardiff also manage the Severn Estuary SSSI at the Cardiff foreshore which is home to the internationally vulnerable Childing Pink flower (Petrorhagia nanteuilii) and to ground nesting birds such as curlews and oystercatcher. Teams cut back vegetation during the March pre-growing/nesting season to create a low-level open heath-like environment, free of brambles and bracken to permit the growth of maritime plants and grassland. Additionally, beehives have also been placed on the port. As bees are considered the primary providers of pollination services for most insect-pollinated crops and wildflowers within the UK, the bees on the port provide increased pollination potential and facilitate the spread of wildflowers. Wildflowers, specifically, are important to wider biodiversity, providing food, shelter and other resources to mammals, birds and insects. On a longer time-scale, pollination can also affect the spread of rare habitats and this has unique biodiversity, cultural and economic value. It is ongoing projects such as these which contribute to a healthier biodiversity among our ports. Autumn

18 people ABP apprentices sail the seas for challenge of a lifetime Eight ABP apprentices took on the challenge of a lifetime recently when they participated in the 2016 Apprentice Ship Cup. The apprentices, who all work for ABP on the Humber in the marine and engineering departments, spent five days aboard the tall ship Bessie Ellen. The last wooden sailing ketch still under sail travelled from Falmouth to Southampton in a race that sees young people from across the UK and beyond take each other on to be crowned winners. The race is organised by Merseyside Adventure Sailing Trust and companies sending teams of apprentices include: ABP, Glendale, Peel Holdings, Sellafield Limited, Nuvia, Riverside, GetRag, Liverpool City Council, Pendennis Ship Builders and Liverpool University. The event is designed to give apprentices the chance to develop their teamworking and problemsolving skills, as well as their self-confidence and leadership and communication skills. The race ended with a gala dinner and presentation ceremony, at which ABP was named Biggest Promoter of this year s race. Marine Operations Apprentice George Davies on his first trip on board a sail training ship said: Some challenging weather conditions of strong winds and heavy rain meant we had some exciting sailing and it really brought home the need to work as an effective team. Top ten accountancy world ranking for Emma Sampson Congratulations to Emma Sampson, Management Accountant based in Head Office, for achieving the joint-ninth highest mark in the world for her CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) Strategic Case Study Exam. In the letter Emma received from CIMA they said: To be among the top ten in the world is regarded by CIMA as a considerable achievement. Emma s success in the Strategic Case Study exam marked the end of three years of hard work studying for her CIMA qualification and Emma is now a qualified Management Accountant and a CIMA Commendee. 18 Autumn 2016 ABP employees join customers in raising money for East Anglia Air Ambulance The Galloper Wind Farm project held a charity cycle and walk event to raise money for the East Anglia Air Ambulance. ABP and other contractors involved in the project were invited to participate. Rob Page and Andy Miley took part in the 96-kilometre cycle route starting from Harwich, and Lucia Firman took part in the 37.5-kilometre walk route starting from Dunwich. Both routes finished in Lowestoft at the OGN base. Everyone managed to complete the event in less than seven hours and it was a good way of getting to know people. The event smashed its fundraising target of 5,000, raising over 7,600.

19 Nesting peregrine falcons at the Port of Fleetwood Fleetwood employee Mike Treece-Birch has been documenting the breeding project around the peregrine falcon nest at the port since After two years, Mike can report that there are two young peregrines living at the port. As some of you may remember, the peregrine falcon nest at the Port of Fleetwood had eggs stolen from it at the beginning of I decided to place a new nest box in a different location to start another breeding project. Almost immediately, the peregrine falcons begun to use it. There were a couple of setbacks along the way (one of the female falcons disappeared, and another was found injured in the River Wyre). A third female falcon appeared with the male and they stayed together right through In April this year it was apparent she was in the nest box and sitting tight. All was going well, and in mid-may we noticed she appeared to be feeding young. The feeling that all the work we put in is hard to describe it was brilliant! At the beginning of June we could see two, possibly three, young peregrines standing in the nest box entrance waiting for mum and dad to fetch dinner. It was all confirmed in mid-june when two young peregrines, one male and one female successfully fledged and were flying around with the adult birds learning to hunt and become selfsufficient before being driven off by the adults before the next breeding season. Pirate fun at Ipswich Haven Marina ABP s Ipswich Haven Marina has joined in on the fun and hosted a pirate-themed bonanza weekend at the Ipswich Waterfront celebration. The Ipswich Haven Marina hosted the funfilled weekend to complement waterfront celebrations organised by the Ipswich Borough Council. The theme proved popular with the community and visitors to the area. Ipswich Haven Marina Manager Linda Pipe said: Our weekend bonanza has normally been held in conjunction with the Ipswich Maritime Festival. But with the introduction of the Waterfront celebration, management agreed that we needed to be involved and support this new event. Our pirate theme was a fantastic way of getting the community involved with the marina, and a great opportunity for the staff and berth holders to participate in a fun weekend. Port of Ipswich trains with local fire service As part of the Port of Ipswich s ongoing working relationship with the Princes Street Fire Station, a joint training exercise was recently held at the Ipswich Wet Dock. The training exercises are a regular occurrence between the two groups, fostering good relations and an understanding of what to do in the event of an emergency. Harbour Master Captain Jerry Coleman said: We worked with the Red Watch crew from the Princes Street Fire Station to undertake two training exercises, a portable fire pump activation and body recovery from the water. While these are unlikely events, we still need to be prepared and these exercises are extremely useful for all involved. Get in touch ports Ports Talk is contributed to by employees and customers of ABP. If there is anything you would like to see in any future editions of Ports Talk, or if you have any suggestions on how we can make Ports Talk even better, please get in touch with the Ports Talk team at Autumn

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22 News from Britain s Leading Port Operator LEADING THE CHARGE TO BOOST UK EXPORTS How ABP and its customers are investing for growth CONTENTS Autumn 2016 p6 Brett Aggregates confidence in ABP p10 Port of Ayr records busiest day in 25 years p13 First vessels berth at Green Port Hull Keep in touch online