Two new barges for Western Isles
Marine Harvest Scotland has invested over £3 million in two new Akva feed barges, which are set to soon be delivered to sites in the Western Isles.
The steel barges have been specifically designed for use in more exposed sites and will replace older equipment which will be moved for use elsewhere.
The barges, which hold 450 and 320 tonnes of feed respectively, each have 8 silos with an automated hatch control and high capacity 6- and 8-line feed systems.
Ben Hadfield, Managing Director of Marine Harvest Scotland, welcomed the investment, saying: “I’m delighted we are bringing this new equipment to the Western Isles as part of our drive to create an efficient industry which is sustainable in the long term.
“These steel barges have proved themselves in very rough conditions at some of our most exposed sites and the partnership with Akva has been of great value in terms of developing a customised solution to meet our specific needs.”
The Akva Centre 450 tonne Panorama and the Akva Master 320 tonne Comfort will withstand wave heights of up to 6m. The steel construction allows for easy disinfection if required and the barges have a lower carbon footprint, as the steel can be recycled.
The barges provide a safe and comfortable working environment with full overview and control of all the systems. The latest feeding and integrated feedback monitoring systems can be monitored and controlled remotely from a shore base using the Akva Connect software platform.
Paint is guaranteed for 5 years on all Akva barges, but these were given added protection with a metallised finish.
The first barge to be delivered is set for MH's Loch Seaforth site and will be officially handed over on July 6th.
