PD Ports opens new marine operations facility on River Tees
PD Ports has opened a new multi-million-pound marine operations facility on the River Tees in northeast England, strengthening the infrastructure used to maintain safe navigation and support port activities.
Located at Cargo Fleet Wharf within Teesport Commerce Park in Middlesbrough, the purpose-built facility provides a permanent base for the company’s Marine Operations and Marine Engineering teams.
The investment supports PD Ports’ responsibilities as Statutory Harbour Authority for the River Tees and the Port of Hartlepool, including the maintenance of navigable channels, marine infrastructure and operational vessels.
The new three-storey building replaces ageing facilities at Vulcan Street that had been in use since the 1960s.
New maintenance capabilities for marine vessels
The facility brings marine operations and engineering activities together in one location, with dedicated space for vessel maintenance and repair.
A specialist workshop allows smaller marine vessels to be lifted from the river onto the quay and transferred indoors for maintenance, a capability that was not available at the previous facilities.
According to PD Ports, the arrangement is intended to improve working conditions for marine engineers and support more efficient maintenance of the company’s operational fleet.
The building was designed and delivered largely by PD Ports’ internal civil and facilities engineering teams, with support from local suppliers.
Supporting navigation and port operations
PD Ports’ Marine team carries out a range of activities essential to the operation of the River Tees and Port of Hartlepool.
These include dredging, hydrographic surveying, maintenance of navigational aids and oil spill response. The Marine Engineering team also maintains vessels used for surveying, pilotage and other port-related activities.
The company’s marine fleet includes Emerald Duchess and Heortnesse, alongside smaller survey and pilot vessels.
PD Ports has previously invested £23 million in Emerald Duchess, reflecting a separate programme of investment in its marine fleet.
The new facility is intended to provide additional operational support for these activities and improve coordination between marine personnel and engineering teams.
Continued investment in River Tees infrastructure
Paul Foreman, Chief Executive Officer of PD Ports, said the investment reflects the company’s long-term responsibilities for maintaining the River Tees as a safe and navigable waterway.
The facility will also provide space for engagement with port users, customers and other organisations involved in activities along the river.
PD Ports’ statutory harbour responsibilities extend beyond its own terminal operations, covering navigation and marine safety for businesses operating throughout the River Tees.
The company’s marine function traces its origins to the establishment of the Tees Conservancy Commissioners in 1852 and will mark 175 years of operations in 2027.
The latest investment adds to PD Ports’ existing marine infrastructure and fleet capabilities supporting commercial shipping and port operations in the region.
