Investment needed to realise hopes of expanding port links
PLYMOUTH’S potential as both a cruise destination and a freight port has long been under-exploited. Misconceptions about the geographical location and the perception that the Ocean City is “at the end of nowhere” have seen it bypassed in favour of other ports.
But while some may look at the current situation in Dover and feel Plymouth has had a lucky escape, there are ways the port can be carefully developed to provide the perfect gateway to Europe.
It’s refreshing therefore that plans, reported in today’s WMN, are finally being discussed to transform Millbay into a major freight depot which can take huge super ferries connecting the city to new destinations in Spain, Portugal and even Africa. Investment in dockside facilities would not only make the port a modern and green facility but also have huge benefits for the city in terms of jobs, journeys and prestige.
Having invested in new gas-fuelled ferries, French-owned Brittany Ferries is talking to partners in Plymouth to look at ways to expand freight while maintaining its highclass passenger offering.
And its boss Christophe Mathieu has visions that would capitalise on
Plymouth’s new freeport status, and its attractiveness for importers and exporters.
Brittany Ferries saw freight as a lifeline when passenger numbers plummeted during Covid travel restrictions, but because so few lorries use the Plymouth to Roscoff route it had to be closed entirely during the pandemic.
As Mr Mathieu says: “I don’t understand why lorries won’t drive to Plymouth. It’s not Penzance, we have the A38, not a motorway but still a great access, but there is a perception that Plymouth is at the end of nowhere. In Plymouth, we need to find a solution, collectively, and increase the carrying of freight out of the port, or we will struggle to replace the fleet.”
However, Brittany Ferries, the port operator ABP and Plymouth City Council cannot fund the necessary improvements alone. They need to fight for funds from Central Government in order to make the plans happen.
And that’s where the dream could end if politicians continue to deprive Plymouth and the South West of funding that should have come our way in the wake of Brexit.
As reported yesterday, the money areas in the Westcountry will receive under the Shared Prosperity Fund will be stretched to the limit – and were described as “derisory” by Tim Jones, chairman of the South West Business Council.
Mr Mathieu said forward thinking was crucial, adding: “We need to prepare for a greener generation of vessels, onshore power and new passenger facilities.”
Green visions are something ministers should be jumping on – and it is hoped leaders in Westminster will see the potential and need for investment to develop Millbay into a green gateway to Europe and beyond.