Port Progresses
Wednesday 3rd September 2003Associated Ports East Anglian Ports have enjoyed an encouraging first half this year. The first six months of 2003 saw the ports of Lowestoft, Ipswich and Kings Lynn increase volumes of trade in dry bulks and unitised traffic. There have been a number of significant new developments during this period, together with further investment in facilities at these short-sea ports.
In response to increased operational demand, Lowestoft boosted its container-handling capacity by leasing a brand-new fleet of Lansing-Linde handling equipment. The fleet, comprising four three-tonne capacity forklift trucks, one six-tonne capacity side-loader and one 42-tonne capacity reach-stacker, serves the ports North Quay Terminal, handling steel, forest products, containers and general cargo.
Plans were also announced for the construction of the £1.0 million Lowestoft Haven Marina. The development, which will see the creation of 140 berths, is expected to be completed by the end of September.
Nick Palmer, ABP Port Director, Short-Sea Ports, commented: ABPs East Anglian ports have made an encouraging start to the year. We have enjoyed significant growth in certain key trades and have continued to expand our range of facilities to meet increased customer and operational demand. The fact that we are continuing to invest across the Ports of Ipswich, Kings Lynn and Lowestoft is excellent news for the region and its reputation as a gateway for trade with Europe.
