Northern Ireland's main port set for major growth
The port of Belfast in Northern Ireland has announced a $1.3 billion (£630 million) expansion programme to help drive economic growth over the next two decades.
Local press reports say the government has given a go-ahead for the dredging of deeper channels and the reclamation of 120 acres of land from Belfast Lough to construct new quays and berths. Initial construction includes the development of an extra six kilometres (km) of quays.
The project will see the upgrading of port infrastructure and the development of advanced cargo handling facilities to accommodate the region's growing international trade.
“Recent events have transformed our political landscape and a new chapter in Northern Ireland life has opened,” said Len O'Hagan, chairman of the Belfast Harbour Commissioners.
“We must ensure that Northern Ireland has the infrastructure in place, the terminals, the quays, the warehouses and the roads to successfully manage the projected growth,” he added.
A recent economic report showed that 25% of jobs in Northern Ireland were supported by port activity.
Last year the port handled over 60% of Northern Ireland's total import and export trade, which was worth $39.2 billion.
The report also said that in order to keep up with the rest of the UK in terms of economic activity, Belfast would need to invest heavily by 2025 when cargo traffic volumes are expected to double.
Industry players said several international companies were keen on investing in the Belfast expansion plan and global participation was expected in the areas of construction and port operations.
Local press reports say the government has given a go-ahead for the dredging of deeper channels and the reclamation of 120 acres of land from Belfast Lough to construct new quays and berths. Initial construction includes the development of an extra six kilometres (km) of quays.
The project will see the upgrading of port infrastructure and the development of advanced cargo handling facilities to accommodate the region's growing international trade.
“Recent events have transformed our political landscape and a new chapter in Northern Ireland life has opened,” said Len O'Hagan, chairman of the Belfast Harbour Commissioners.
“We must ensure that Northern Ireland has the infrastructure in place, the terminals, the quays, the warehouses and the roads to successfully manage the projected growth,” he added.
A recent economic report showed that 25% of jobs in Northern Ireland were supported by port activity.
Last year the port handled over 60% of Northern Ireland's total import and export trade, which was worth $39.2 billion.
The report also said that in order to keep up with the rest of the UK in terms of economic activity, Belfast would need to invest heavily by 2025 when cargo traffic volumes are expected to double.
Industry players said several international companies were keen on investing in the Belfast expansion plan and global participation was expected in the areas of construction and port operations.