29th Jul 2015 09:59
LONDON (Alliance News) - Security services company Westminster Group PLC on Wednesday said the roll-out of its ferry project and airport transfer services in West Africa has been delayed after tests found further work is needed on the ferry.
Westminster said that following the grand launch of the Sierra Queen ferry in Sierra Leone, further testing identified the need to carry out more works on the boat to better suit local climate conditions, including enhanced air conditioning, hull strengthening and measures to prevent floating debris entering inlet valves.
The work is underway but, during the dry docking, the company said it was noted that one of the prop shafts on the boat is out of line and may need repair.
Westminster now expects operations for the ferry to start in August.
"Whilst we are anxious to start operations this is a large scale, long term project and safety and reliability are our primary concerns and that is why we have been conducting extensive trials and undertaking appropriate works before formal commencement of services. These trials have identified issues which we believe should be carried out before operations commence," said Chief Executive Peter Fowler.
Shares in Westminster were trading flat at 21.00 pence on Wednesday.
By Sam Unsted; [email protected]; @SamUAtAlliance
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