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TRIDENT FORUM STUDY VISITS

The Trident Forum is interested in the promotion of best practice and is delighted to work with other organisations to arrange technical briefings or study visits.

On the 10th July 2009, the Trident Forum held an event at Portland Marina as guests of Dean & Reddyhoff. The study visit also included a tour of the adjoining Sunseeker factory.

Following a warm welcome from Dean & Reddyhoff’s Operations Director, James Beaver, at the new marina bar/restaurant (“The Boat That Rocks”), delegates learnt about the history of the Sunseeker boat manufacturing business. This was followed by a tour of the factory to see their state-of-the art power boats under construction.

A highly informative presentation on the conception and development of Portland Marina was then made by James Beaver. He explained not only the construction process but also the critical role the site will play in the 2012 Olympics and his company’s vision for the marina’s future.

Following lunch at the “The Boat That Rocks”, a tour of Portland Marina and its extensive support facilities (including substantial boat lifts and commercial business space), revealed the high quality of the development. In addition to wind turbines for green power generation, of particular note were the generously proportioned pontoons and the exceptionally well finished facilities for yachtsmen.

An energetic presentation by Gary Fooks, Dorset 2012 Legacy Manager, explained how the Portland area is also benefiting from other investment and regeneration initiatives. Key aspects include physical infrastructure, such as new roads and buildings, as well as investment in the community; the positive impact of sailing opportunities being taken by young people was especially highlighted.

The event was chaired by Simon Ward, Head of Research at Vail Williams and Chairman of the Trident Forum. “This was an excellent study visit highlighting the importance of the marine industry to the economy. We witnessed world class boat manufacturing and marina development, and heard about the critical part that Portland will play in the 2012 Olympics and as a key economic asset for the future.”

(The Trident Forum is a network of professional advisers working with the marine industry (www.tridentforum.com), bringing together its clients and contacts for the exchange of ideas, best practice and inspiration.)