North Carr Lightship faces an uncertain future

We consider the uncertain future of the once influential North Carr Lightship as her metal construction reaches critical condition. 

Tay Maritime Action has announced its intention to deconstruct the North Carr Lightship due to concerns about its condition and the risk of sinking at the present location at Victoria Dock, in Dundee, Scotland.

Designed by DA Stevenson and built by J&A Inglis, Glasgow, in 1933 for the Northern Lighthouse Board, she is of iron- and steel-rivetted construction and is in largely original but poor condition. 

Over the past years holes have developed in her hull as a result of corrosion, each of which has had to have plates fitted over it. She retains much of her original equipment, including lifeboats, firefighting gear, engine room generators, compressors, electrical equipment, a windlass, internal furnishings and accommodation.

North Carr played a vital role in World War II, safeguarding the Arctic Convoys, and is a memorial to the crew of the Broughty Ferry lifeboat Mona, who tragically lost their lives in 1959 while trying to secure her after she had drifted off station in a storm.

If no alternative is found and the vessel is deconstructed, a formal entry will be created for her on the National Archive of Historic Vessels and held by National Historic Ships UK. 

This news item comes from the latest issue of Ships Monthly, and you can get a money-saving subscription to this magazine simply by clicking HERE