Ferry Firm Bags Contract for MoD Port
By Aiswarya Lakshmi
Thursday, November 5, 2015
David MacBrayne Ltd (DML) and global logistics firm GBA (Holdings) Ltd, operating as Solent Gateway Ltd, have won a contract to run one of the UK’s busiest military ports as part of a joint venture.
The Gourock-based firm has been awarded a 35-year deal to manage military movements through Marchwood Military Port in Hampshire. MacBrayne is the parent firm of Calmac Ferries, which has operations at 24 ports, harbours and slipways.
The 225-acre facility on Southampton Water has been used for the movement of troops and equipment since 1943, and is also extensively used as a berth by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary in support of the Royal Navy.
GBA, which is based in Grimsby, provides logistics services to the automotive, shipping and renewables industries. It currently operates from 14 ports in the UK, handling more than 1.7 million vehicles a year.
David MacBrayne's chief executive, Martin Dorchester says that the new contract will utilise the combined strengths of both Solent Gateway partners when the firm commences operations in April 2016.
GBA’s managing director, Captain Sam Judah MBE, said, “We are delighted to be awarded this prestigious contract to run the Port of Marchwood. Its location and infrastructure are second to none and we will be using all our expertise and experience to ensure that existing services are delivered to the highest standard to maintain defence capabilities.