News

With a current lack of berths to keep pace with the increasing cross channel traffic, Dover Harbour Board has begun the third round of consultation for development of a four-berth ferry terminal and new marina project at the Western Docks.

The Board will submit an application for approval of the £420 million project later this year and hopes to get the go-ahead to build by Summer 2010.

A range of options to fund the development, including seeking private capital or opting for pure debt finance to retain the port’s independence, is being considered by the Board but it is currently not contemplating a full privatisation of the port.

Bob Goldfield, Chief Executive, said that the project is critical for trade and tourism between the UK and Continental Europe.

“Capacity at the Eastern Docks ferry terminal is running out and the forecasts are for growth in both freight and tourist traffic. We would like to have Terminal 2 open by 2013, or Dover is set to be faced with some very difficult traffic management challenges.

“This latest round of consultation is an essential part of the Environmental Impact Assessment process, not only to enable people to understand what is being proposed, but also to allow for any concerns or issues to be identified and resolved at an early stage."