The south-west Cumbrian Port of Barrow plays a key role in serving the offshore energy industry in the region described as Britain's "energy coast". The port has 15ha of secure open storage and is the site of BAE Systems' submarine design and manufacturing facility.
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DOCUMENTS AND LINKS
Property Solutions Port Charges Barrow 2024 Pilotage Fuel Surcharge Draft Port Of Barrow (Closure Of Harbour Facilities In Part Of Ramsden Dock Harbour Revision Order) Draft Statement in Support - Port of Barrow Former Gas Condensate Works Plan Barrow Masterplan Barrow EnergyDockThe Port of Barrow is Cumbria’s gateway to growth, serving local industry and manufacturing, facilitating maritime trade and hosting world-class shipbuilding.
As well as garnering a global reputation as the centre for the Royal Navy’s submarine manufacturing operation at BAE Systems, for more than 25 years, the Port of Barrow has also provided world-class marine engineering services to customers in the offshore energy sector.
110,000 tonnes of cargo are handled by the Port of Barrow team each year, comprising an array of different products including limestone, sand, aggregates, granite and woodpulp. Heavy lift projects are also routinely and efficiently carried out to support the offshore energy sector.
The port has a team dedicated to safely delivering the highest standards of customer service, ready to work in partnership to help our customers’ businesses to grow.
In 2018, the Port of Barrow won the ‘Port of the Year Award’ at the 10th annual UK Ports Conference in London, in recognition of its high levels of customer service.
Connectivity
Close to the Lake District National Park, Barrow is linked to the M6 by the A590 and also has a direct connection to the national rail network.
The M6 provides easy access to the major conurbations of Preston and Blackpool and the major centres of Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds and further south, direct to Birmingham.
Delivering for customers
The Port of Barrow is the closest port to the Walney offshore wind farm. The £1 billion, 650MW facility is vast, covering an area equivalent to 20,000 football pitches. Barrow provides a home to four O&M bases supporting significant renewable generation developments in the Irish Sea, as well as supporting a range of projects run by energy giants Ørsted, Siemens and Vattenfall. Major components for offshore energy projects are constructed on the quayside before being shipped to site offshore by the port’s expert heavy lift team and infrastructure specialists.
The Port’s benefits in handling project cargo include a designated heavy/abnormal route from the Port of the M6 motorway and ample open storage.
A berth is available to accommodate cruise vessels up to 160m length, in an ideal location for easy access to the Lake District National Park.
Provides
15ha of secure open storageABP's ports in the North West support
8,100 jobs across the UKPort of Barrow handles around
110,000 Tonnes of cargo per yearKey statistics and berthing information
Total port acreage = 138 acres
| Normal acceptance dimensions of vessels | ||||
| TOTAL QUAY LENGTH | LENGTH | BEAM | DRAUGHT | APPROX. DWT |
| 2,690 M | 150 M | 35 M | 10M MAX | 10,000 T |
Pilotage is available 24 hours a day subject to conditions below. Vessels wishing to enter the dock system are subject to the tidal entrance gate limitations. The gate opens, on request, 21/2 Hours before High Water and closes at, or shortly after, High Water.
PILOTAGE DIRECTIONS
The CHA directs that on and from the coming into force of these Directions pilotage for the following vessels shall be compulsory when entering, leaving or moving within the CHA Pilotage
- All vessels more than or equal to 50m LOA
- Vessels carrying more than 12 passengers
- Vessels carrying dangerous substances
The pilot embarkation/disembarkation position is Sea 1 Buoy Latitude 53˚57.5’N Longitude 003˚14.1’W
ORDERING PILOTS
Inward Bound Vessels:
- A Pilotage Notification for each inward bound vessel shall be sent to Barrow Port Radio at least 24 hours before the vessel’s anticipated arrival at the Pilot Boarding Station and must include the vessel’s ETA at the Pilot Boarding Station.
Outward Bound Vessels:
The complexity and nature of the Port requires vessels to communicate early and clearly with the Port in the departure process, in order to ensure pilot vessel crew, tug crew and Authorised Pilot availability. As such the following requirements must be met by each outbound vessel:
- A Pilotage Notification shall be sent via email for each outward bound vessel to the address as detailed above at least 12 hours before the expected tide on which the vessel intends to leave;
- The Port (via Barrow Port Radio) will then notify the vessel of the time in which the Authorised Pilot should board the vessel (the “POB”). The POB is normally 2.5-3 hours before high water, unless operational circumstances at the Port dictate otherwise;
A further Pilotage Notification must be sent from the departing vessel via Barrow Port Radio 1 hour before the POB, confirming intention to depart the Port and departure draught.
PILOT ORDERING CONTACT INFORMATION
Barrow Marine Control (24 Hours)
Telephone +44 (0) 1229 615900
Email barrowmc@abports.co.uk
VHF 'Barrow Port Radio' channel 12
Vessel Arrivals
To comply with the Consolidated European Reporting System (CERS) vessels, that meet the below requirements, are required to notify their arrival at least 24 hours in advance.
- All ships of 300 gross tonnage and above, when bound for a UK port, are affected by a ship notification requirement prior to entry into port that applies at least twenty-four hours in advance of their arrival.
- All fishing, traditional and recreational craft of 45 metres length and over, when bound for a UK port are affected by a ship notification requirement, prior to entry into port, that applies at least twenty-four hours in advance of their arrival.
All ships regardless of size, when carrying dangerous or polluting goods, either departing from or bound to a UK port are affected by the dangerous or polluting goods notification requirements.
ABP uses the Port And Vessel Information System (PAVIS) to notify the relevant authorities of a vessels arrival. The vessel, or the nominated agent, can register and enter the required arrival information through the ABP Notify website which can be found here. Please see the 'Regulations' page for further information on arrival formalities and Port procedures.
Vessel Arrivals (Under 300GT)
The following vessels are exempt from this reporting requirement but should still contact 'Barrow Port Radio' on VHF Ch. 12 to gain permission to enter the port:
- Ships of less than 300 gross tonnage
- Fishing vessels having a length of less than 45 metres
- Traditional ships having a length of less than 45 metres
- Recreational craft having a length of less than 45 metres
- Warships, naval auxiliaries and other ships owned or operated by the Government of an EEA State which are used for non commercial public service
Smaller vessels, such as Windfarm Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs) and similar, should submit a 'New Vessel Arrival' form to the Port in advance of their arrival. Vessels should note the requirements on the form to familiarise themselves with all relevant Port information that can be found on the marine website.
Download New Vessel Arrival Form
Pilot Exemption Certificates
These guidelines have been produced by ABP Barrow Harbour Authority in conjunction with pilots, Tug Masters and port users. The guidelines reflect the content of ‘the Guide.' The purpose of developing these guidelines is to enhance the safety of marine towage operations within the Port of Barrow and provide a framework to prevent accidents, enhance communications and teamwork between towage operators, tug masters, pilots and the Harbour Authority.
ABP Barrow Harbour Authority continually risk assesses activities and operations within its area of responsibility and applies appropriate safety control measures to ship movements. This may include the use of a tug. ABP Barrow Harbour Authority reserves the right to amend these Towage Guidelines in line with MAIB, MCA, ABP Marine Advisory Notices or similar recommendations that reflect the Operations at the Port of Barrow.
For rates and charges click here.
The Port of Barrow has set regulations governing customer and tenant activities. The below sub-headings provide information on procedures associated with Vessel Bunkering, Hot Works, ISPS Security, Dangerous Goods and Port Waste Management.
Bunkering Operations
The below Conditions and Notification are applicable to bunkering by road tanker. The Checklist is generic and may be used by vessels that do not have a bunkering checklist of their own or whose list is less comprehensive.
General Bunkering Conditions
Bunker Notification Form
Bunkering Checklist
Vessel Hot Work
Vessels intending to conduct hot work (i.e. welding, gas-cutting, grinding etc.) should hold a valid hot work permission endorsed by the port. This form can be found below and can be submitted to Barrow Marine Control either in person or via email (barrowmc@abports.co.uk). Once endorsed and returned the vessel should contact Barrow Port Radio (VHF Ch.12) to advise of their intention to start hot work and again when completed.
ISPS Security
From May 2017, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) must receive pre-arrival information in the CERS3 Workbook format for vessels arriving in UK Ports. More information about the change in format can be found here. The required documentation can be found here.
Diving
Request for Permission to Dive
Harbour Authority and Byelaws
Harbour Authority
ABP AS A STATUTORY HARBOUR AUTHORITY, AND THE PORT MARINE SAFETY CODE
Associated British Ports (ABP) is the Statutory and Competent Harbour Authority for 22 separate ports and harbours located around the UK. The breadth and depth of knowledge and experience that comes from managing these ports and harbours enables ABP to play a leading role in the ongoing development of the Port Marine Safety Code.
The Port Marine Safety Code, which was last revised in March 2015, serves to highlight the responsibilities that are allied to being a Harbour Authority and establishes a requirement for all Harbour Authorities to formalise their procedures.
In publishing the ABP Marine Policy we aim to demonstrate our commitment to the safe and responsible operation of our ports and harbours by detailing areas of primary concern and bringing transparency to our work. Linked to this policy, each ABP port and harbour has prepared plans detailing the precise manner in which this policy is to be implemented.
We have well established reporting procedures and performance targets; and have a designated person to provide assurances that the ABP marine safety management systems are working effectively. We have a clear system for auditing and reviewing our performance against this policy.
By implementing this policy, ABP continues to build upon its known track record of safe and efficient operations, while endeavouring to identify further opportunities to improve that record whenever and wherever we can.
Byelaws
The port of Barrow is covered by many different Acts of Parliament.
For specific local regulations please refer to the Port's Byelaws below:
Dangerous Goods
Dangerous Goods in the Port are subject to the Health and Safety Executive's Dangerous Goods In Harbour Areas Regulations 2016
For more information on moving Dangerous Goods through the port please contact the Marine Department who can offer more detailed advice.
Port Waste Management
The Port Waste Management Plan details the requirments of cutsomers and tenants to dispose of general and harmful waste in a legal and responsible manner.
Port of Barrow Port Waste Management Plan (2009) Currently Under Review
For more information on Port Waste Management please contact the Marine Department who can offer more detailed advice.
ABP AS A STATUTORY HARBOUR AUTHORITY, AND THE PORT MARINE SAFETY CODE
Associated British Ports (ABP) is the Statutory and Competent Harbour Authority for 21 separate ports and harbours located around the UK. The breadth and depth of knowledge and experience that comes from managing these ports and harbours enables ABP to play a leading role in the ongoing development of the Port Marine Safety Code.
The Port Marine Safety Code, which was last revised in March 2015, serves to highlight the responsibilities that are allied to being a Harbour Authority and establishes a requirement for all Harbour Authorities to formalise their procedures.
In publishing the ABP Marine Policy we aim to demonstrate our commitment to the safe and responsible operation of our ports and harbours by detailing areas of primary concern and bringing transparency to our work. Linked to this policy, each ABP port and harbour has prepared plans detailing the precise manner in which this policy is to be implemented.
We have well established reporting procedures and performance targets; and have a designated person to provide assurances that the ABP marine safety management systems are working effectively. We have a clear system for auditing and reviewing our performance against this policy.
By implementing this policy, ABP continues to build upon its known track record of safe and efficient operations, while endeavouring to identify further opportunities to improve that record whenever and wherever we can.
BYELAWS
The port of Barrow is covered by many different Acts of Parliament.
For specific local regulations please refer to the Port's Byelaws below:
Port of Barrow Byelaws 1985
Navigational Safety
The principal deep water navigational channels within the statutory limits of the port of Barrow are well marked by buoys and lights. These channels are used by commercial vessels, including large deep-draughted vessels, Windfarm crew transfer vessels, Piel Island ferry service and other traffic.
AVOID CROSSING THE BOWS OF ON-COMING COMMERCIAL TRAFFIC.
Most recreational sailors take a justifiable pride in the responsible way they conduct themselves. Part of this is a realisation that hindering passage of large commercial vessels is not only bad manners but dangerous to themselves, their crews and the ship itself.
Recreational users of the port area are particularly requested to remind themselves of and observe, the Collision Regulations, Port of Barrow Byelaws and Local Notices to Mariners.
Speed of Vessels
Barrow Harbour Byelaws prohibit the navigation of a vessel above a speed of 8 knots except with the expressed permission of the Harbour Master and in designated areas as defined by Local Notice to Mariners No.17/2015:
Reference the Port of Barrow Byelaws Part II Section 8 Speed of Vessels: "Except with the permission of the Harbour Master and, subject to byelaw 7 [Vessels to Navigate with care] and the Collision Regulations, the master of a vessel shall not cause or permit the vessel to proceed at a speed greater than 8 knots."
The Harbour Master has granted permission for vessels to exceed the 8 knot speed limit in the channel between the following Aids to Navigation when safe to do so:
- Sea 1 and West Scar/East Scar buoys
- Head/Pickle Scar beacons and West Elbow buoy/East Elbow beacon
See below channel diagram and notes for further clarity:
Safety In Smaller Craft
NAVIGATE WITH CARE
The Collision Regulations apply in the Port. Furthermore it is an offence to navigate a vessel in the Port at such speed or in such manner as to be likely:
- To endanger the lives of or cause injury to persons
- To cause damage to any property including moorings and river banks
- To interfere with the navigation, manoeuvring, loading or discharging of other vessels.
SPEED
Except with the written permission of the Harbour Master there is an 8 knot speed limit within the Port.
WATER SKI-ING, JET SKI-ING, BOARD SAILING, PARAGLIDING, AQUAPLANING, AND POWER BOAT RACING ETC.
This is not allowed in the Port except in such areas and over such courses as designated or agreed by and in accordance with conditions that may be laid down by the Harbour Master.
CLEAR CHANNEL REQUIREMENTS
Smaller craft should not obstruct larger vessels constrained to the Channels. No moorings are to be laid and no nets are to be cast in the Channels. The Channels extend from Lightning Knoll to Ramsden Dock entrance and further past No.16 and 18 Buoys whereupon a 40m clear width Channel is required for safe passage to the Jubilee Bridge and beyond to the Dock Museum basin entrance.
Note: The Port includes the enclosed dock system, the Scarth, Walney, Piel, Inner and Outer Channels.
Collision Avoidance Check List
- Avoid ship channels. Cross them quickly and at right angles.
- Be alert. Watch for ship traffic.
- Be seen. Especially at night.
- Know whistle signals - five or more means Keep Clear.
- Listen to VHF R/T channel 12 - if you have to transmit keep your message brief, say what you have to say, then keep listening.
- Use up-to-date navigation charts - read Local Notices to Mariners at your local club or marina.
- When in doubt, Keep Clear. Always be prepared for the unexpected. Lifejackets do not help if you are not wearing them.
Local Notices To Mariners
Local Notices in Force: 2014/55, 2022/32, 2024/01 27/2024, 31/2024, 35/2024
2024
Barrow LNtM 35 - Navigational Hazards Under Jubilee Bridge, walney inner channel
Barrow LNtM 31 - Diving Operations at SMITE Sea-Water intake
Barrow LNtM 27 - Channel Constant Update
Barrow LNtM 01 - Port of Barrow Local Notices to Mariners in Force
Barrow LNtM 32 - Lightning Knoll Fairway Buoy Removed
2014
Barrow LntM 2014.55 - Hull Cleaning
BARROW LOCAL PORT SERVICE (LPS)
Barrow Marine Control (24 Hours)
Telephone +44 (0) 1229 615900
Email barrowmc@abports.co.uk
VHF 'Barrow Port Radio' Channel 12
REPORTING SYSTEM
PROCEDURE
Participation in the Reporting System is compulsory for the following:
- All vessels of LOA 20m or over
- All vessels carrying 12 or more passengers
- All vessels carrying dangerous cargo
Vessels should report both inward and outward bound to Barrow Port Radio on VHF Ch 12 when passing position 54° 03.0’ N 003° 10.0’W (abeam Haws Point) and when passing Sea 1 Buoy or when entering / leaving the Outer Channel.
NOTE: Vessels may not receive a response from Barrow Port Radio and should proceed with extra caution at such times.
The report should include the following information:
- Vessel’s name
- Intended passage
- Other information requested
Vessels should also report prior to leaving any berth or anchorage within the Port
Barrow Port Radio will provide the following details on request:
- Traffic information relevant to the passage
- Aids to Navigation availability
- Tug availability and number
- Berth allocation
- Tidal or weather information
- Other specific information (speed reductions required, dredging work, diving operations in progress etc.)
Emergency Planning & Procedures
National Contingency Plan
The purpose of this plan is to ensure that there is a timely, measured and effective response to incidents. The owners and masters of ships and the operators of offshore installations bear the primary responsibility for ensuring that they do not pollute the sea.
Harbour authorities are likewise responsible for ensuring that their ports operate in a manner that avoids marine pollution, and for responding to incidents within their limits. However, ships, offshore installations and harbour authorities may face problems that exceed the response capabilities that they can reasonably maintain (especially in the provision of counter pollution equipment).
Similarly, coastal local authorities may face incidents that require equipment or expertise beyond their capabilities. Therefore, the MCA may need to use national assets in the response to a marine pollution incident.
This plan sets out the circumstances in which MCA deploys the UK’s national assets to respond to a marine pollution incident to protect the overriding public interest. It also describes how MCA manages these resources.
Please click here for the National Contingency Plan
Oil Spill Contingency Plan - Barrow
The Oil Spill Contingency Plan has been developed to conform to the Merchant Shipping (Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation Convention) Regulations 1998, which entered into effect 15 May 1998. The plan is designed to meet the statutory responsibilities placed on the Harbour Authority for responding to oil pollution within the harbour area.
The plan is provided to assist the Harbour Authority and other organisations in dealing with an accidental discharge of oil. Its primary purpose is to set in motion the necessary actions to stop or minimise the discharge and to mitigate its effects. Effective planning ensures that the necessary actions are taken in a structured, logical and timely manner.
The plan uses a tiered response to oil response incidents. The plan is designed to deal with Tier One and Tier Two incidents, and to provide guidance for the initial response to a Tier Three incident. Where a spillage is associated with a wider emergency, then additional factors involving the safety of personnel will take precedence over the pollution response. In this case reference will be made to Solfire.
Please click here to download ABP Barrow OSCP (Please note that section 9 - contact directory - is not included in public versions of this document).
Regional Harbour Master:
Richard Webb
Deputy Harbour Master & Short Sea Pilot:
Ashraf Hossain
Marine Officer/Pilot:
Richard Rhodes
Telephone +44 (0) 1229 615900
Email barrowmc@abports.co.uk
VHF 'Barrow Port Radio' channel 12
Port Office
Ramsey Way
Barrow-in-Furness
Cumbria LA14 2GR
Marine Control
Ramsey Way
Barrow-in-Furness
Cumbria LA14 2GR
Port Service Providers
We work closely with our third party service providers to ensure a round the clock service for all port calls.
Below are the main contact details for our partners servicing the Port of Barrow:
TUGS, WORKBOATS & LINESMEN
Bay Towage
Anchorline Basin
Ramsden Dock
Barrow-in-Furness
Cumbria
LA14 2TB
Telephone: +44 (0) 1229 830 388
Email: info@baytowage.co.uk
STEVEDORE
ANCILLARY SERVICES
Underwater Diving Services
Anchorline Basin
Ramsden Dock
Barrow-in-Furness
Cumbria
LA14 2TB
Telephone: +44 (0) 1229 839 637
Fax: +44 (0) 1229 839 636
Email: divers@uds.co.uk
LIVE INFORMATION
Find live information for the Port of Barrow on Marine Traffic
For ABP’s standard terms and conditions, please click here.