This notice provides an update on progress with rock placement work on the Hunterston-Kintyre undersea cable in the Firth of Clyde.
Rock placement work started on the 9th September with the vessels Seahorse and Rockpiper working close to the Kintyre and Hunterston cable landfalls. The Rockpiper has been working on the Hunterston landfall and nearby anchoring zone.
The Seahorse started work at Kintyre landfall and progressed eastwards at locations along the cable route. The Seahorse left the Clyde earlier this week to collect more rock and is due to return on site on the 21st September 2015. Seahorse is due to complete works on the cable on the 22nd September 2015, weather permitting.
A series of charts showing the location and extent of each area of rock protection, as well as the indicative timetable for works can be downloaded here.
A Notice to Mariners has been issued for this work by Peelports. This can be downloaded here.
Vessel details
Details of the vessels involved in these operations, along with their present locations can be found on MarineTraffic.com via the links below:-
Whilst Seahorse and Rockpiper are conducting the rock placement and supporting operations, they will be Restricted in the Ability to Manoeuvre. All vessels operating within this area are to keep clear of Seahorse and Rockpiper: 500 metres ahead, 1000 metres abeam and astern of the vessel to maintain a safe distance.
During operations the vessels will display the appropriate day shapes/signals and at times of reduced visibility the appropriate lights as required by the IRPCS. The vessels will also actively transmit an AIS signal. A continuous listening watch will be maintained on VHF Channel 16 and 12 DSC.
Three guard vessels are presently on station along the cable route and will provide advice to ensure the safety of mariners operating in the area until further notice. The guard vessels can be contacted on VHF Channel 16.
Please contact Jim Andrews, Fishery Liaison Officer by e-mail or phone (+44(0)7908-225865) if you have any queries or concerns about this notice.