This was far higher than UK's growth of 0.7% for the same period. More importantly freight (road haulage vehicles) rose by nearly 10% both on the quarter to quarter figures and on the year to date figures. These figures are a true reflection of how the Port and its major ferry customers are securing increased market share against a backdrop of overall growing markets.
- Road haulage 2014 up nearly 10% compared to Q3 2013 (64% market share)
- Passenger numbers up 3% compared to Q3 2013
- Coaches up by just over 8% compared to Q3 2013 (68.5% market share)
- Car numbers down slightly by 0.8% compared to Q3 2013 (54.7% market share)
- The number of ferries entering the port remains the same
Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, sees these latest figures as hugely encouraging for the Port : "These growth figures show that we are on the right lines with our business model and development plans for the Port. They reflect our joint commitment to providing brilliant customer service and continued investment in Port capacity. The Port of Dover is often cited as the barometer of the UK economy's state of health and as the UK looks set to be the fastest growing advanced economy this year, our figures reflect that and show we are both on the right lines. We have ambitious plans for growth and the development of the Port for the benefit of our customers and the community."
The Port of Dover recently confirmed the Marine Management Organisation has approved the Dover Harbour Board's application for additional powers through a Harbour Revision Order. This will now see the start of the Dover Western Docks Revival project, which should help to kick start the regeneration of the area.
