BIRKENHEAD

• GBBRK
• Latitude: 53.404
• Longitude: -3.02914
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Port in UK

Location: Birkenhead Merseyside Ch21 UK

Birkenhead, located on the Wirral Peninsula across the River Mersey from Liverpool in the United Kingdom, is home to significant marine port facilities. The Port of Birkenhead is part of the larger Liverpool City Region port infrastructure, managed by the Mersey Docks and Harbour Company, which is a part of Peel Ports Group.

Overview

The Port of Birkenhead primarily caters to various categories within the maritime industry including cargo handling, shipbuilding, and repair. The port has a deep-water facility and is capable of managing a wide range of vessels, from container ships to Ro-Ro ferries (Roll-on/Roll-off), liquid bulk carriers, and general cargo vessels.

Key Specifications & Facilities

1. Location:

   • Situated on the west bank of the River Mersey.
   • GPS Coordinates: approximately 53.3963° N latitude and 3.0144° W longitude.

2. Docks and Berths:

   • Multiple docks with full tidal access.
   • Notable docks include the Twelve Quays Terminal, West Float, East Float, and Bidston Dock.
   • The Twelve Quays Terminal has two roll-on/roll-off berths.

3. Cargo Handling:

   • Equipped for handling a variety of cargo types including containers, bulk, breakbulk, and project cargo.
   • Specialized equipment for loading and unloading, including gantry cranes, mobile cranes, and Ro-Ro ramps.

4. Warehousing and Storage:

   • Comprehensive warehousing options adjacent to the port.
   • Facilities for warehousing, container parks, and bulk storage.
   • Equipped with modern logistics facilities ensuring smooth transfer of goods.

5. Transport Links:

   • The port is well-connected via road, rail, and inland waterway systems.
   • Access to major motorways like the M53 provides quick transport routes to the rest of the UK.
   • Rail links enable direct services to various industrial regions.

6. Facilities & Services:

   • Experienced workforce with skills in cargo handling, ship repair, and logistics.
   • On-site customs facilities and port health authorities.
   • Warehousing and distribution services.

7. Additional Services:

   • Hydrographic surveys and diving services.
   • Bunkering and fueling services available.
   • Emergency response and 24/7 operational support.

8. Environmental and Safety Standards:

   • Committed to high environmental standards with initiatives to reduce carbon footprint.
   • Strict adherence to safety regulations and best practices to ensure safe operations for personnel and materials.

Economic Impact & Future Developments

Birkenhead has historically been an essential part of the UK's maritime trade and continues to be a critical component of regional economic activity. The port is seeing ongoing investments to upgrade its facilities, improve efficiency, and expand capacity. This includes modernization of its infrastructure and increasing its capacity to handle newer and larger types of maritime vessels.

Notable Usage

Besides commercial shipping, Birkenhead also supports:

• Ferry services to Ireland and other destinations.
• A strong shipbuilding and ship repair industry, with companies like Cammell Laird operating within the port area.
• Recreational and leisure boating with facilities for mariners and tourists.

Overall, the Port of Birkenhead is a versatile and integral component of the UK's maritime infrastructure, offering a comprehensive range of services and facilities that cater to diverse maritime needs.