News: Lockers Trawlers/UK Fisheries JV orders two new trawlers from Parkol

UK Fisheries and Lockers Trawlers 26 May 2025

A joint venture between Yorkshire fishing firms Lockers Trawlers Ltd and UK Fisheries Limited has ordered two new, 24-metre fishing vessels from Parkol Marine Engineering in Whitby in an investment that boosts the local economy and demonstrates continued faith in the future of fishing in the UK.

The state-of-the-art trawlers, which can be operated either singly or as pair trawlers, are due to be launched in 2027, and will principally operate from Peterhead. 

At a signing ceremony held in May at the Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona, Arnold Locker, Managing Director of Lockers trawlers, said:

“This is a great day for fishing in the UK. Our partnership with UK Fisheries means that together we can invest in Yorkshire shipbuilding and ensure British fishers have the very best and most sustainable equipment for catching whitefish in the North Sea.”

Rebecca Bennett, General Manager of UK Fisheries Ltd said:

“This investment represents our commitment to the future of sustainable fishing in the UK. By partnering with Lockers Trawlers and Parkol, we’re not only enhancing the efficiency of our fleet, we’re also equipping these vessels with the latest technology, helping us reduce our environmental footprint and ensure responsible fishing practices. 

“This project will directly support skilled jobs in the UK, from shipbuilding to fishing communities, reinforcing the importance of investing in local industries.  

“ We’re extremely proud to be part of this project and look forward to seeing these vessels in operation. This investment demonstrates our ongoing dedication to both innovation and sustainability.”

Sally Atkinson, Commercial Director of Parkol Marine Engineering, said:

 “We are delighted to receive the orders for two new fishing vessels for Lockers Trawlers and UK Fisheries. This marks a major milestone in our 40-year relationship with Lockers and presents a new opportunity to work with UK Fisheries.

“This Project not only reflects the trust and collaboration Lockers & UK Fisheries have invested, it also introduces a new class of vessel built wholly in the UK. The contracts will support skilled UK jobs and supply chain plus directly align with the National Shipbuilding Office’s strategy to provide economic benefit by retaining shipbuilding enterprise for UK customers within the UK.”

The two vessels will each have a gross tonnage of 400t and a fish hold of approximately 200m³.

Artist's impression of "Our Lass IV"

 

ENDS

For more information on Lockers Trawlers see www.lockerstrawlers.co.uk/

For more information on Parkol Marine Engineering see www.parkol.co.uk

For More information on UK Fisheries see www.ukfisheries.net

 

Media Enquiries:

Lockers Trawlers: info@lockerstrawlers.com

Parkol Marine Engineering: info@parkol.co.uk

UK Fisheries: media@ukfisheries.net