UK BPA calls for ‘port zoning’ strategy

BPA chairman Rodney Lunn has written to the Transport and Environment ministers, outlining the new concept that would see both marine and land areas within ports being classified as special areas for growth.

These zones would be safeguarded against the impact of marine designations and planning system challenges, allowing ports to fast-track developments and have certainty about future activities.

Mr Lunn said: “Ports are vital clusters of jobs and trade, supporting coastal communities as well as safeguarding harbour areas for commercial and recreational users. As we move into a new trading environment post-Brexit, it is important that the sector remains competitive.

“Environmental and planning constraints in port statutory limits are becoming increasingly difficult to work with. Our proposed ‘port zones’ would allow ports to continue to fulfil their duties to maintain safe harbours while supporting jobs and trade without endangering the environment.”