New harbour signal station being installed
INSTALLATION of a new signal station is currently under way at the harbour, with an estimated cost of £320,000.
Guernsey Vessel Traffic Service has been based in a temporary cabin since the original building at the end of the White Rock Pier was demolished 10 years ago.
But now a new two-storey container conversion is being installed on the site of the original structure, which will accommodate two VTS operator positions on the first floor and a server room and breakout space on the ground floor, along with welfare facilities.
Guernsey VTS is responsible for vessel traffic management within St Peter Port and St Sampson’s harbours and their approaches.
This involves monitoring and managing vessel movement, and by providing information to commercial and leisure mariners.
The station is staffed by seven VTS officers, who use a variety of systems including VHF radio, radar and AIS to deliver the vessel traffic service.
James Way, assistant harbourmaster and VTS manager at Guernsey Ports, said VTS was the first point of contact for commercial and leisure vessels.
‘VTSOs are on watch 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,’ he said.
‘The new signal station will provide improved facilities and a modern and comfortable working environment for our staff, enabling them to focus on delivering an effective and professional traffic management service.’
Guernsey’s harbourmaster Captain David Barker said VTS was important for safe and efficient vessel movements.
‘Investment in this new signal station will allow Guernsey Ports to deliver a 21st century VTS service, which fully complies with international standards and is vital to maintain lifeline passenger and freight services to Guernsey and our outlying islands,’ Captain Barker said.
The final costs for the project are estimated at £320,000.
Once installation of the building is complete, internal fit-out of data and radio telephony services will commence, with the new signal station expected to be fully operational in early 2022.
No reduction in the existing VTS service is anticipated in the interim.
