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City’s port is ship shape

By 24 March 2017No Comments

Portsmouth’s Labour Leader has paid a visit to the city’s International Port to meet the port’s new director and tour the site.
Over the years the city council has invested heavily in new passenger facilities, and the well-designed airport style terminal – opened a few years ago – delivers a first class experience for travellers. And recent statistics show that this investment is paying off.
Latest passenger figures for ferry crossings to France reveal 2016 was a record year at the city’s port, with passenger numbers hitting a ten year high. Last year the number of passengers crossing to France from Portsmouth International Port rose by 3.7% to 1.7 million.
The amount of freight being carried from Portsmouth International to the near continent by Brittany Ferries has also risen significantly. The operator, which is based in Portsmouth, saw freight units rising by 3% to 146,199.
Cllr Stephen Morgan paid Mike Sellers the new port director a visit to catch up on the port’s performance and hear what more the city council could do to ensure future success.
FullSizeRender-22He said:
“It was great to visit the International Port today and meet Mike and his team. A successful port means jobs for local people, greater investment in our great city, and a stronger local economy.
I am pleased to learn of recent passenger numbers and Brittany Ferries continued commitment to our city. Plans to attract new cruise liners berthing in Portsmouth are exciting and have my backing.
I offered my support to the team to work with important partners – such as the Royal Navy, University and local businesses – to ensure this fantastic asset in the heart of our city continues to deliver for everyone”.
Portsmouth’s international port has been in operation since 1976. Owned and operated by the city council, the port has grown extensively over the decades.
Initially it offered just one route to France from a small section of reclaimed harbour front. It is now known as Britain’s Best Connected Port with more destinations than any other UK Port. The Port’s location on the M275 offers fast connections to London.
For more information about the port visit: www.portsmouth-port.co.uk