Ballymena firm develops precast barrier to boost Stena Line’s operational efficiency at Belfast port

A new bespoke barrier unit developed by Northern Ireland’s Moore Concrete has increased Stena Line’s efficiency levels by over 80%.

Stena Line’s Cairnryan terminal in Belfast is one of the UK’s busiest departure and arrival points for freight and passenger traffic. With almost 500 lorries using the facility each day ensuing a smooth passage is a top priority.

However problems with the durability of lane indications paved the way for a collaboration between the Swedish shipping firm and the local concrete product supplier.

Stephen Petticrew, operations’ manager with Stena Line, explained: “Using lane indicators for the lorries is the most obvious way of directing traffic around the terminal.

“Previously, we tried plastic options. But these proved too light, being blown around by strong winds, even when filled with water, they were still prone to be moved out of position which caused confusion.

“What’s more, lorries could inadvertently knock against them. So, guess which object came off the worse from that type of altercation?

“We needed to come up with indicators that would be much more durable, but also easily repositioned when needed.

“The solution had to be a free-standing structure capable of withstanding a bump from a lorry, one which would remain in place but could be quickly moved from one location to another within our terminal facilities.”

The answer came in the form of a precast solution, developed by Ballymena-based Moore Concrete. The firm developed a number of bespoke concrete barrier units, each weighing 1¼t and including a forklift recess for easy transportation.

Moore’s Conal McMahon, explained: “The units can either be used singly or joined together to form a complete barrier. When approached by Stena Line, we felt we could offer a simple and effective solution to the problem faced, and we’re delighted to see the concrete barriers versatility being utilized.”

The Moore Concrete barrier units are suitable for use as permanent and temporary applications including blocking farm gateways, protection of vacant sites, channelling traffic, pedestrian seating and creating temporary boundaries, for example, car parks.

To date, Stena Line has procured 74 of the precast units for use at its Victoria terminals in Belfast.

Stephen added: “We were able to streamline our loading and unloading process with the use of these concrete barriers, by having robust lane indicators in place our vehicles no longer need to stop while working.

“This has transformed our efficiency levels increasing to over 80% - which is remarkable for an operation of this scale and a great return on investment.”