The British Ports Association says that its focus will be on port zoning and improving communications in 2017, just some of its key priorities for the coming year.
BPA chief executive, Richard Ballantyne, said that association will also be concentrating on ensuring UK port interests feature in the Brexit negotiations and encouraging increased Government investment in port road and rail connections.
He said: “In 2017 the BPA will be working to support our members in a number of ways and build on the excellent platform and network that we have. From Brexit to regional and national devolution there are a number of opportunities for the ports sector in the coming year.”
The BPA has also recently launched a lobbying campaign on ‘port zones’ which encourages policy makers to ensure port activity and development are not negatively impacted by marine protection designations. Also for 2017 the BPA aims to develop a network of port communication managers to look at opportunities for collective promotion of the sector.
BPA Chairman Rodney Lunn added: “ “Ports are at the heart of the economy and we are continually looking for ways in which the BPA can work with government to help improve the growth opportunities for the industry.”
Following the retirements of the BPA’s longstanding figures David Whitehead and Monica Williams towards the end of 2016, the BPA has recruited Sara Walsh, Mark Simmonds and Stuart Wealands to help drive the agenda forward.
