Ferguson Marine Charts New Course for MV Glen Rosa
Ferguson Marine has unveiled a strategic plan aimed at delivering the MV Glen Rosa while emphasizing the need for investment and management reforms to revitalize shipbuilding on the Clyde. During a recent session with Holyrood’s Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee, the leadership highlighted technical advancements on the Glen Rosa and lessons learned from the MV Glen Sannox, as they work to modernize the business after a history of delays.
Commitment to Modernization and Improved Management
Duncan Anderson, the newly appointed chair of Ferguson Marine, expressed optimism about the yard’s future despite its troubled past. He stated that with a robust modernization program and enhanced construction processes, Ferguson Marine could emerge as a leader in the shipbuilding industry. Acknowledging previous management failures, Anderson emphasized the current leadership’s commitment to transforming operations and providing clearer structures for the workforce.
“The past management of vessel construction has involved mistakes,” Anderson admitted to the committee. However, he reassured members that significant changes have already been implemented under the new senior management team. He noted, “We are powering up the switchboards as we speak, and we are close to full engine commissioning as per the recent schedule,” indicating progress on the Glen Rosa. The yard anticipates delivering the vessel in the fourth quarter of this year as part of its modernization efforts.
Chief Executive Graeme Thomson outlined the introduction of stronger program controls since he took over, including rigorous planning and formal risk management. He stated, “We have now implemented a much more robust planning process,” which has revealed previously hidden issues. Thomson also highlighted the establishment of a program management office and the adoption of advanced planning tools to enhance operational efficiency.
Addressing Technical Challenges and Future Prospects
The committee session also addressed technical challenges affecting the MV Glen Sannox, particularly hull cracking linked to propeller cavitation. Thomson explained that the yard has identified the cause and has implemented engineering solutions to prevent future occurrences. “The crack that was identified was a 20mm crack that manifested itself through vibration through the hull,” he explained, noting that steel reinforcements and redesigned propellers have been tested to mitigate the issue.
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Thomson assured MSPs that lessons learned from the Glen Sannox project are being applied to the Glen Rosa, including similar mitigation efforts ahead of the arrival of updated propellers. Additionally, Ferguson Marine emphasized the critical need for yard investment. Finance Chief David Dishon revealed a £14.2 million capital package supported by the Scottish Government, aimed at modernizing facilities and boosting productivity. This investment includes a semi-automated panel line expected to enhance productivity by 50%.
Thomson expressed confidence in the yard’s long-term viability, citing a report from the National Shipbuilding Office that indicates a demand for 150 vessels over the next 30 years. He stated, “We should be attractive and competitive in the UK within the five years and able to secure work on a competitive basis,” as Ferguson Marine strives to move beyond the challenges posed by the Glen Sannox and Glen Rosa projects.
