Antwerp Port Authority seeks partners for hinterland development

The first discussions with potential partners were held at the end of October 2008, but the Port Authority is still keen to receive proposals for collaboration agreements from other interested parties. The Port Authority’s property manager Björn Verhoeven explains why it wants to break with the past and commit itself clearly to a policy for the hinterland: “The port is starting to bump up against its geographical limits. A presence in the hinterland will enable it to make maximum use of its great advantage, namely its location relatively far inland.” The Port Authority sees a number of clear benefits to be obtained by setting up such partnerships. For instance, additional space can be found in the hinterland for port-related activities for which no more room is available in the port itself. Also, better use can be made of the existing terminals and other port facilities if there is faster and more efficient transport to and from the hinterland. Finally, traffic congestion will be eased if there are better connections with the hinterland. Specifically, projects are being considered along the E313 highway and the Albert canal, the E17 and the Leie basin, and the intersection of the A12 and the N16 (the heart of the “Flemish diamond”).