‘Significant’ works completed at Plymouth docks

£23 million (€27 million) is being spent on upgrading infrastructure at West Wharf on Millbay Docks, which can now accommodate 100t cranes at a new 60m section, where 30 steel tubular piles have been installed.

“The enhancement will enable the port to handle a greater volume of cargo and will support a state-of-the-art Passenger Boarding Bridge for both ferry and cruise passengers,” says Associated British Ports (ABP), which owns the port.

The final phase of the works was done by Seawork regular marine civil engineering company Teignmouth Marine Services, alongside consultancy and construction company Mace.

Calling the project ‘a huge milestone’, Plymouth City Council leader Tudor Evans said it was all part of a mission to increase global trade through the port.

“This work means more ships, more cargo, more business and more growth for Plymouth. Great stuff!”

“The port industry is vital to Plymouth and contributes to the health of the wider UK economy by facilitating transport and trade,” said Mace Ports and Maritime lead Will Robertson. “Our expertise and experience in the sector have ensured the successful delivery of these essential upgrades, which will improve Millbay Docks’ infrastructure to support its operations, contributing to its role as a strategic freight and cruise terminal.”

As well as increasing cargo ship arrivals, cruise ship arrivals to the Port of Plymouth have doubled since two years ago. Brittany Ferries is a regular visitor to the port.