SURVITEC, formally known as Cosalt, have just announced that they will be closing their shop situated on Milford Haven Docks.

Helping to save lives at sea for over 160 years, the Survitec Group are pioneers in marine technology. They supply marine safety equipment to the operators of ferries, cruise lines, cargo ships, tankers, tugs, work boats, port terminals, fishing vessels, sailors and recreational water enthusiasts.

Selling everyday safety items to products of last resort, Survitec’s equipment and services are respected not only in Milford Haven, but nationally. They are replied upon by all corners of the industry.

The shop has supplied marine equipment in Milford Haven for more around 100 years. Their closure is to be a huge blow to the port at Milford Haven, and raises questions about where boat arrivals will buy much needed supplies at the dock.

It has been confirmed that three jobs will be lost as a result of Survitec’s closure. A spokesman from Milford Haven’s Survitec commented that they would be closing due to new owners taking over the shop. Talking to the public, it was clear that this closure is a huge disappointment to many; “It’s been here for many years, it’s a shame,” one local resident said.

A retired Windjammer Marine worker said: “For many years they supplied the vast majority of safety requirements of not only commercial operators, but for many leisure users. Their work included servicing lifejackets and life rafts, and supplying pyrotechnics like marine distress flares. They also supplied the fishing fraternity with different types of ropes, wires and shackles.

“They are going to be missed. Servicing life-rafts requires specific knowledge – that expertise isn’t commonly available. Because of the strict rules concerning explosives, there is a need for places like Survitec to store certain types of flares. That is now a service we will no longer have locally.”

He added that due to the nature of the work carried out by Survitec, anyone looking to fill the gap in the market would need a big initial investment, as well as a large, specific premises.

At the time of going to press Milford Haven Port Authority had made no comment. Clare Stowell, Estates Manager for Quayside Estates which is part of the Port of Milford Haven, said: “It is regrettable when any business employing local men and women closes down and our thoughts are with those who may lose their jobs. Creating sustainable local jobs is really important and that is why the Port is investing in Milford Marina and Milford Fish Docks. New facilities will provide local businesses with opportunities for growth and diversification and attract additional trades to Pembrokeshire, creating more work for local people.”