West of Shetland gas pipeline infrastructure damaged

A SECTION of a gas export pipeline in the waters to the west of Shetland has been displaced – with fishing gear understood to be the suspected cause.

A spokesperson for BP said safe operations continue on the Clair Ridge gas pipeline.

But protective concrete mattresses around the subsea pipeline have been damaged, with one torn into sections.

Part of the six-inch diameter pipeline is said to have been dragged out of position by around three metres, while the pipeline is exposed for approximately 25 metres.

The pipeline from the Clair Ridge field connects into the West of Shetland pipeline system, which then heads to Sullom Voe Terminal.

The incident came to light in early July.

A BP spokesperson said: “During routine inspections of the Clair area pipeline system, a section of the Clair Ridge gas export pipeline was found to have been displaced with evidence of damage to and movement of the protective concrete ‘mattresses’ covering the pipeline.

“A risk assessment concluded there was no risk to the pipeline integrity and safe operations continue.

“We continue to monitor the pipeline while remediation plans are put in place. BP has engaged with relevant authorities and partners, including the Health and Safety Executive.”

It comes after damage to a subsea telecommunications cable off Shetland last year which was thought to have been caused by a fishing vessel.