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Government of the Falklands signs contracts for the installation of a new port terminal
The former FIPASS and with a date of obsolescence at the end of 2028, which has served as a port and warehouse for the Islands since the post-Malvinas War in 1982
The Government of the Falkland Islands, FIG, has announced the signing of several contracts that will be a milestone in the delivery of the new Falkland Islands port terminal, a fundamental project that will mean the replacement of the current old and obsolete structure, known as FIPASS, and which will therefore play a vital role for the economic future of the Falklands.
Damen Civil and Modular Constructions BV (Damen) was contracted to,)
Design and construct four new barges/rafts together with associated marine structure to form the main components of the new port terminal’s marine side berthing facilities
Transport of new boats and infrastructure to the Falkland Islands, e.g.
Install the new maritime facility, including the removal and dismantling of the current FIPASS structure
RSK Falklands (RSK) has been contracted to build a new access road, causeway and facilities adjacent to the new port.
The total value of contracts signed is £109 million. This is not the total cost of the project, as there are additional elements such as the transport of barges to the Falklands, the disposal of current barges (if this is the preferred option after their dismantling, it could even sink them at sea), and the fuel gas pipeline that is still under construction, but represents the majority of the new port structure.
The need for modern and reliable port infrastructure has long been recognized. Over the past two decades, numerous studies and reports have confirmed that the port is an essential element in enabling the development of the Falklands economy, being an essential part of critical national infrastructure, whilst also highlighting the support of traditional industries and emerging opportunities.
The new port structure will mean a whole series of benefits, including,
*Support for the fishing industry, which currently generates over £50 million annually in license and tax resources
*Increased fish and squid transshipment capacity, providing opportunities to increase added value to the fishing-related industry and catch verification.
*Support for the objectives of the ITQs (Individual Transferable Quotas) policy, aiming for greater local economic participation by supporting the use of containers and transfer services by companies on the Islands.
*Sponsor opportunities for tourism by allowing larger expedition cruise ships to dock directly at the port (something that is currently not possible), improving the passenger experience and increasing visitor exchange
*Support trade and supply chain resilience. Provide capacity for future growth, with studies that demonstrate a clear trend towards an increase in the number and size of ships, in all sectors that depend on the port for their activities.
Originally installed as a temporary solution, FIPASS has served the Falkland Islands well, but is quickly reaching the end of its operational life. Surveys carried out by naval engineers confirm that its facilities and structure cannot be maintained beyond 2028. The replacement of the port was designed to ensure that it will meet the needs of users today and in the future with at least another 50 years of useful life.
The new port terminal structure will feature four 90-meter balloons/barges, similar to the design of current barges but with elements adjusted to the new reality such as a smaller draft, in order to adapt to a specific location. With the barges chained, the new port facility will cover approximately 400 meters with enough space to dock, as well as space for the ships’ own operations.
The access road and walkway will be constructed on the western side of the structure and designed to facilitate the efficient movement of goods, vehicles and people.
FIG remains committed to completing the port replacement project on schedule for the new port facility, with the original schedule of replacing the original barges, completing the bridge and access road with a view to completion in 2028.
FIG’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Andrea Clausen, said: “The new port is a key enabler for our economic growth and development. The signing of these contracts is an important milestone for the Falkland Islands, which moves this long-awaited, and much-needed, project towards its delivery date.”
For its part, the Falklands Fishing Companies Association stated: “FIFCA welcomes the signing of the agreement between the Falklands Government and its partners for the design and construction of new port facilities at Stanley Harbour. This represents a key milestone in ensuring that our community is sustained and has modern, fit-for-purpose facilities, which are a crucial element in the economic development of the Islands. The increased capacity of the new port will be a significant benefit not only to the fishing industry, but also to the Falklands economy as a whole.”
For its part, shipping company SAAS, South American Atlantic Service Limited, stated: “SAAS welcomes the new development plans for the new port facility, which will provide security, both now and in the future, to a critical and vital link for the export and import trade of the Islands economy.”