WARRENPOINT Port has unveiled an ambitious 25-year growth plan, which forecasts an 80 per cent increase in freight business by 2040.
The Masterplan document, which covers 2018 to 2043, aims to build on the Co Down port’s position as the second largest port in the north and as a major economic driver for the region.
The draft document outlines key objectives including upgrading transport links to the port, improving port capacity and facilities, maintaining and growing its customer base and developing improved linkages with Warrenpoint town. The document identifies several key priorities the achieving these lofty goals, including the delivery of the Southern Relief Road, the redevelopment of the Town Dock in Warrenpoint Town Square and providing open public access to an expanded marina.
Authorities at the port, are anticipating a significant increase in trade over the coming decades with core roll on, roll off, freight expected to rise by up to 80 per cent by 2040.
The port, a vital link in the supply chain for numerous businesses, handles a broad spectrum of goods including grain, timber, steel and cement and a full range of services including container and freight.
Warrenpoint Port CEO, Clare Guinness said the forecast is for continued growth, in spite of the ongoing uncertainty in relation to Brexit and the lack of a Stormont government.
“Warrenpoint Port is enjoying a sustained period of growth resulting in record trade figures over recent years. In 2017, we handled 3.56 million tonnes of cargo worth £6.2 billion. Our draft Masterplan sets out a vision to continue that growth as we aim to maximise our contribution to the regional economy and community," she said.
“It has been prepared during a period of some uncertainty and is designed to prepare the port and the surrounding area to deal with Brexit and other upcoming challenges."
President of Newry Chamber of Trade and Commerce, Paul Convery described the port as a "key driver for economic prosperity" in the local area.
“We are delighted to see the port’s ambitions to grow further and share many of the aspirations included in the Masterplan including the prompt delivery of the Southern Relief Road.”
Liam Hannaway, chief executive, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, added:
“Warrenpoint Port’s draft Masterplan provides a welcome overview into the medium and long term objectives of one of the most important employers in the Newry, Mourne and Down district.
“The port is a huge part of the local economic success story and, as one of its key stakeholders, we look forward to taking part in the consultation into the plans.”
The Masterplan is available to view at www.warrenpointport.com, while two public information days will be held at Town Dock House, The Square, Warrenpoint on May 2 and 3. The consultation runs until Friday, May 18.
