MARINE Projects Scotland has secured the contract for the first phase of restoration and remedial work on the internal hull and steelwork of Glasgow’s Tall Ship Glenlee.
Funded by the National Heritage Memorial Fund (NHMF), the overall project is valued at £1.8 million and will last a year – with the Glasgow-based firm has already commenced work with phase one due to complete in April.
The first phase of restoration works will include the removal of the cargo hold deck boards and ballast, which will enable inspection and repairs to be carried out on the ship’s hull underneath.
Additional work will involve repairing the steelwork, shotblasting, non-destructive testing, and applying new surface coatings to the new and existing steel. Further works include the removal of the ship’s heating and sewage system to gain better access to restricted spaces, as well as removing water ballast tanks, and evaluating the condition of ballast materials and gabions to secure the vessel’s long-term stability and integrity.
Peter Breslin, MD of Marine Projects Scotland Ltd, said, “We are honoured to be entrusted with the restoration of this remarkable historical vessel. Our team has extensive experience working with heritage vessels and is dedicated to preserving its legacy while ensuring it remains structurally sound for years to come.”
Fiona Greer, development director at The Tall Ship Glenlee, added, “We are delighted to award this contract to Marine Projects Scotland, whose expertise and dedication to historical ship preservation are second to none. This first phase of works are a significant step in securing the future of The Tall Ship Glenlee, ensuring it continues to serve as a testament to maritime history for all to enjoy and learn from.”
The overall restoration project is being managed by maritime civil engineering consultancy, Beckett Rankine.
John Monasta, associate director from the Beckett Rankine Glasgow office, added,“We are thrilled to take on the restoration of this historic Tall Ship Glenlee, working closely with Marine Projects Scotland, to secure the future of this iconic vessel. This project is a testament to our commitment to preserving maritime heritage while ensuring the vessel is fit for future generations to enjoy.”
