Offshore staff
LONDON – An issue with the jackup Noble Hans Deul has halted development drilling at the Southwark field in the UK southern North Sea.
Southwark is the third of operator IOG’s Phase 1 fields to be drilled after Elgood and Blythe.
The rig had mobilized to the field location after completing the Blythe production well. Early yesterday, during routine jacking operations, a problem came to light with one of the legs, causing the installation process to be stopped.
IOG stressed that no drilling or associated works were under way at the time. The rig went to full muster while the problem was assessed. There was no damage to the rig hull or to the Southwark platform and all personnel are unharmed.
The rig is stable and connected to tow boats while the crew assesses its condition.
Owner Noble Corp. has initiated an investigation. The rig will probably have to be transported to port for further investigations before drilling can safely resume, IOG added.
The company continues to expect first gas from both Blythe and Elgood fields later this year, after completion of subsea and onshore installations.
10/11/2021
