HUELIN-Renouf’s new vessel is taking shape in a German shipyard.

The multi-million-pound container, which is scheduled for delivery in January, is 85 metres long and will be able to take up to 148 freight containers as well as other cargo.

The vessel will replace the 30-year-old MV Huelin-Dispatch plying the route between the Channel Islands and the UK.

The vessel will also have a new base in the UK. Huelin-Renouf is moving its terminus from Portsmouth to a purpose-built facility in Southampton’s Eastern Docks, having forged a 25-year partnership with Associated British Ports.

Work has already started on the mini-container terminal, which will include offices, a 10,000 sq ft warehouse, weighbridges and undercover vehicle handling. The Channel Island firm is hoping to move in by the end of next month.
Chief executive Keith Renouard said: ‘This is the right move for Huelin-Renouf and for our customers. Being based in Southampton means we will be able to offer new services, such as warehouse storage and bonded warehousing, as well as access to the UK rail freight network.’

• Picture: A section of the hull is slowly put in place in the shipbuilding yard in Germany