Dunkirk looks at 2013 investments

After fast progress of work on its maritime infrastructures and an overall positive 2012, the port has set aside €51.3m for 2013 investments.

Its strategic plan forms part of a policy of sustainable action and development which takes into the consideration the various areas of the port, with particular emphasis on those involving the protection of nature and biodiversity.

The port has focussed its investment for the coming year on energy and bulks – more than one third of the total investment budget (€20m) will be dedicated to the continuation of work on the LNG terminal which is budgeted at €16m, as well as the studies for an LNG provisioning unit for ships.

Daniel Deschodt, commercial director, Port of Dunkirk, told Port Strategy: “The road map and targets for 2013 will be focused on the enlargement of our hinterland for general cargo, a consolidation of our position in cross Channel traffic and 2 new cape size berths at the Western Bulk Terminal. We will also focus on the temperature control products due to our expertise in this field of activity.”

The port has also set aside €6.2m for rail links and €2m for containers and logistics.

The remaining €23.1m will be used for equipment and works for assets, including the recycling of non-submersible dredging sediment, corrosion protection of metal structures in contact with seawater, locks, inland waterway structures, the renovation of quayside storage yards and the upgrading of access roads to the ro-ro terminal.