Peel Ports Group, the UK's second largest port operator, appointed NASH Maritime to undertake a comprehensive review of Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) provision for Clydeport.
The study was commissioned to assess options for the future management of vessel traffic within Clydeport and its approaches, helping Peel Ports Group identify a solution that balanced operational efficiency, navigational safety and long-term investment objectives.
NASH Maritime was tasked with evaluating a range of options, from targeted system enhancements through to a significantly upgraded future-state VTMS capability, and identifying the associated benefits, risks and implementation considerations. The findings would inform Peel Ports Group's future planning and investment decisions.
What we did
We undertook a detailed review of existing vessel traffic operations, beginning with data gathering, stakeholder consultation and baseline traffic analysis to understand current vessel movements and operational requirements.
Using the IALA Waterway Risk Assessment Program (IWRAP) modelling and navigational risk assessment techniques, we evaluated the risks associated with existing operations and assessed the potential safety benefits of a range of future VTMS options.
Our team completed a comprehensive review of existing Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) infrastructure, including radar coverage, Automatic Identification System (AIS) coverage, Very High Frequency (VHF) radio communications and Electro-Optical System (EOS) and CCTV coverage, identifying opportunities to enhance situational awareness and improve traffic management capability.
We then developed and assessed three future-state options, providing recommendations on system enhancements, equipment requirements and key implementation risks. This enabled Peel Ports Group to compare solutions based on operational performance, risk reduction and investment considerations.
As part of the final phase of the project, NASH Maritime identified potential suppliers capable of delivering equipment that met the technical and performance requirements of the preferred option, supporting future procurement and implementation activities.
The outcomes of the study provided Peel Ports Group with a robust evidence base to support future planning for Clydeport's VTMS provision and navigational safety arrangements. Peel Ports Group subsequently recognised the quality of the work delivered and confirmed that they would have no hesitation in recommending NASH Maritime to ports, harbour authorities and organisations requiring VTMS consultancy services.