The Port of Dover has approved a major capital investment plan totalling around £85 million which will see the port's current ferry terminal receiving a major upgrade by 2015. The investment includes capacity improvements and pier extensions to cater for the new 'super-ferries', major improvements to the existing berths and the complete replacement of berth 6, additional assembly and pre-assembly space and major resurfacing works.
This significant programme of improvements will ensure that Dover's existing ferry port is utilised to the full, providing first class facilities and infrastructure in advance of even bigger plans for a brand new second ferry terminal to double the capacity of the port.
The convenience and reliability of ferry travel has consistently made the headlines, with last year's ash cloud and snow crises demonstrating the efficiency and robustness of the operation and the exceptional levels of service provided by committed and skilled staff. These events brought even more passengers to experience the benefits of ferry travel. With sailings every 30 minutes during peak times and a typical mid-week day offering 54 sailings from P&O Ferries, DFDS Seaways and SeaFrance, it is no wonder that passenger numbers are on the up.
Kate O Hara, Head of Commercial and Marketing said: "Despite the tough economic climate, the port has seen growth in the tourist sector and the business is buoyant and optimistic. This has been confirmed by the introduction of new and bigger vessels, including the largest ferry ever to sail from Dover, P&O's Spirit of Britain. The Port has supported its customers' optimism through its major investment programme and will continue to do so in the coming years."
