Salvors are continuing efforts to break up the stricken container ship MSC Napoli off Branscombe in east Devon. The ship which was carrying 2,300 containers was originally grounded in January 2007 after being damaged in storms. She was refloated this month but beached again only days after when a diving survey revealed the vessel was more severely damaged than feared. Tugs are currently attempting to break the ship in two, after which the bow section will be towed away followed by the stern trunk. Salvage experts have begun removing ballast in an attempt to break up the vessel by causing the hull to sag. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MSA) is hoping the bow section will stay afloat and be towed away, and the stern will sink where it will be eventually removed.
This painstaking operation could take up to a year, and the National Trust have expressed concerns about the estimated 9.5 tonnes of residual oil remaining in the ship. Parts of Branscombe Beach, which is a World Heritage Site, have already been affected by the oil with teams cleaning up patches on the coastline. The use of spray dispersants in the water are also being considered. The National Trust will continue to monitor the environmental situation and liaise with partner organisations and local communities in order to minimise the impact of the oil.
