La Port Authority of Castellón has launched a tender for the adaptation and expansion of the Castelló Port Control building, located on the external Transversal Dock, in order to adapt it to current needs. Its main functions are maritime security of the port, ensuring complete surveillance and immediate response to any incident.
The project involves an investment of 2,959,998, an execution period of twelve months and consists of the reorganization of the control and rescue post, the relocation of the crisis room and the redistribution of the associated secondary spaces. These adjustments will allow for more efficient and coordinated management, ensuring the protection of the structures, operations and people who work in the port. The project is part of the modernization plan of PortCastelló, integrating advanced solutions, thus responding to the needs of the logistics and maritime sector.
The intervention involves the expansion of the built surface to meet the new space needs, mainly on the second floor and the ground floor by closing the existing portico, as well as the installation of a lift to guarantee accessibility to the building between the plants. It includes upgrading the building’s electromechanical systems, such as fire detection and suppression systems, as well as installing new CCS-specific equipment in the control room and new crisis room.
The president of the Port Authority, Rubén Ibáñez, underlined that “with the renovation and expansion of the control tower we are doubling our efforts in terms of security and emergencies in the port of Castellón, adapting our structures to the needs of space” .
A new roof will be built on the current walkable terrace, as well as allowing for new auxiliary spaces on the ground floor, such as technical rooms and access hall, generator room, training room, changing rooms, kitchen, dining room and toilet.
For its part, a new centralized control and management post and a redistribution and adaptation of offices and offices will be installed on the first floor. In the second, however, there will be a new warehouse, the offices will be unified in a flexible multipurpose room and will host the crisis room, giving it greater visibility of the port.
The adaptation and updating of the structures and spaces associated with this infrastructure will be adapted to the current applicable regulations (Technical Building Code) in relation to evacuation and fire protection, accessibility and energy efficiency.
How will the expansion of Castelló Port potentially impact local job opportunities and the economy?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Elena Martinez, Maritime Security Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Martinez! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent developments at the Port Authority of Castellón. This new tender for the adaptation and expansion of the Castelló Port Control building seems quite significant. What are your initial thoughts on this project?
Dr. Elena Martinez: Thank you for having me! I believe this expansion is a crucial step toward modernizing port operations. The Port Authority of Castellón is clearly prioritizing maritime security, and the need for enhanced surveillance and incident response capabilities cannot be overstated in today’s logistics landscape.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely! The estimated investment of nearly 3 million euros is quite substantial. How do you see such an investment impacting the overall safety and efficiency of the port?
Dr. Elena Martinez: With that level of investment, we can expect substantial improvements. The reorganization of the control and rescue post and the relocation of the crisis room are strategic moves that will enable a more coordinated response in emergencies. Efficient management is key to maintaining safety in maritime operations, so this investment should yield a significant return in terms of operational effectiveness and risk mitigation.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the relocation of the crisis room. Could you elaborate on how that specifically contributes to maritime security?
Dr. Elena Martinez: Certainly! The crisis room is the nerve center for decision-making during emergencies. By relocating it to a more secure and accessible area, the port can ensure that key personnel has the best resources at their disposal. It allows for real-time coordination among security and rescue teams, ultimately leading to faster response times and better management of incidents, which is vital when dealing with potential threats on the water or in logistics.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like efficiency is at the forefront of this project. How do you think this fits into the larger modernization plan for PortCastelló?
Dr. Elena Martinez: This project is integral to the modernization plan as it demonstrates a commitment to integrating advanced solutions within logistics and maritime sectors. By enhancing infrastructure that directly supports security operations, the Port Authority is not only improving safety protocols but also aligning with global best practices. Modern ports need to be equipped to handle emerging challenges like cyber threats, increased traffic, and the complexities of global supply chains.
Time.news Editor: There seems to be a strong emphasis on proactive measures in this expansion. How can this shift towards modernization impact the local economy and employment at the port?
Dr. Elena Martinez: Investing in modernization enhances the port’s operational capacity, which can lead to increased traffic and commerce. This, in turn, can create more jobs, both directly associated with the port and in related sectors, such as logistics and transportation. Moreover, a safe and efficient port attracts more business, which could lead to long-term economic growth in the region.
Time.news Editor: It’s fascinating to see how maritime security can intersect with broader economic goals. As the project unfolds over the next twelve months, what are some indicators that stakeholders should watch for to gauge its success?
Dr. Elena Martinez: Key indicators will include the timely completion of the construction, the integration of advanced technologies into operations, and improvements in response times during drills and actual incidents. Stakeholders should also observe how effectively the newly organized spaces function in facilitating communication and decision-making among security personnel.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Martinez, for your insightful analysis. This project truly highlights the importance of adapting our maritime infrastructures to meet modern demands. We look forward to following the developments at the Port Authority of Castellón.
Dr. Elena Martinez: Thank you for the conversation. I’m excited to see how this initiative will enhance port operations and security, and I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts with your readers!
