A major business in Barrow is doing its bit for a greener future after purchasing a zero emissions vehicle to support its operations.

The Port of Barrow, owned by Associated British Ports (ABP), has bought a zero-emissions support vehicle to cut the use of diesel vans on its site and lower the carbon footprint of operations.

The vehicle will be used to carry watering gear such as standpipes and hoses around the port to support shipping operations.

It has been supplied by Barton Townley Ltd Barrow, one of the longest established local family car dealership businesses in the area.

ABP said the investment highlighted its commitment towards reducing emissions and follows the purchase of 13 electric Nissan vehicles for the Port of Southampton, which was announced last year.

Carl Bevan, ABP divisional port manager for the North West, said: “As one of our town’s major employers and largest employment sites, we are keen to play an active role is securing Barrow’s greener future.

“The introduction of this new electric vehicle to Barrow’s fleet will help towards improvements in local air quality, whilst also reducing the running costs of port operations, helping us to operate more efficiently.”

The Port of Barrow handles more than 300,000 tonnes of cargo a year, including woodpulp, aggregates, gas condensate, steel fabrications and other manufactured goods.

It is also a key player in supporting the on-going operation and maintenance of huge windfarm developments off the Furness coast, including the world’s biggest operational windfarm, the Walney Extension.

Read more about the port’s role in Barrow’s booming wind industry in the latest edition of in-Cumbria magazine.