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Removing the gates JLP01_08_099166
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Removing the gates JLP01_08_099166
Graythorp, Hartlepool. A view of the gates of the dry dock at Graythorp being removed by three tugs, prior to the launch of Graythorp I.
In the early 1970s Laing Pipelines Offshore constructed the Graythorp fabrication yard and dry dock on the site of the old William Gray Shipyard. The company created a dry dock which was used for the construction of fixed platform North Sea drilling rigs for the BP North Sea Oil Project. Graythorp I had its christening ceremony on June 4th and was launched on Saturday 29th June 1974, heading off for the Forties Oil Field 250 miles away. The tugs shown in the photograph included the Schouwenbank and the Banjaardsbank, both from Rotterdam
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24058932
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1970s Boat Dry Dock Marine Engineering Works
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This print captures a significant moment in maritime history - the removal of the gates at Graythorp dry dock in Hartlepool. Three powerful tugs, including the Schouwenbank and Banjaardsbank from Rotterdam, can be seen working together to dismantle the imposing barriers. This marked an important step towards the launch of Graythorp I, a fixed platform North Sea drilling rig constructed by Laing Pipelines Offshore. In the early 1970s, Laing Pipelines Offshore transformed the site of William Gray Shipyard into a state-of-the-art fabrication yard and dry dock. The company's expertise was crucial for BP's ambitious North Sea Oil Project. The construction of Graythorp I took place within this very dock, which now witnessed its final preparations before embarking on its maiden voyage. On June 4th, amidst great anticipation, Graythorp I was christened with all due ceremony. Just weeks later, on Saturday 29th June 1974, it set sail towards its destination - Forties Oil Field located approximately 250 miles away. This remarkable image not only showcases impressive marine engineering works but also serves as a testament to human ingenuity and collaboration across borders. It reminds us of our relentless pursuit for progress and exploration in one of humanity's most challenging environments - the vast expanse of our oceans.
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