'The UK ports industry is a vital element of the national economy, handling over 97% of the UK's import and export trade, he said. 'Ports such as ours have to be able to operate effectively in order to maintain that position.'

'But one of the major issues for our industry at present is the difficulty which can be faced in trying to advance development opportunities, whether it is seeking planning consent or applying for dredging licenses.'

'There appears to be almost an automatic presumption against such developments because of the perceived threat to the environment. The planning system must appreciate the need for a more equitable balance between development and the environment and, recognising shipping and ports as the most environmentally benign mode of facilitating trade, deal fairly and efficiently with their requests.'

MJ Information No: 19639