The Government’s new shipping supremo has made South Tyneside his first port of call.

Ports and Shipping Minister, Robert Goodwill MP, paid his first official visit to the UK port by dropping in at the Port of Tyne, in South Shields, on Thursday.

While on a tour of the 600 acre estate, the Minister learned about developments at the port, such as the rapid progress that is being made on a £25 million investment project

The Port is currently investing in the construction and refurbishment of 329 metres of quays, which comprises a 125 metre extension to the existing Riverside Quay deep-water facility, refurbishment of 118 metres of the same quay and initial expenditure in the strengthening of 86 metres of quays at the adjacent former McNulty site.

Andrew Moffat, Port of Tyne Chief Executive Officer, and also Chairman of the British Ports’ Association, said: “Mr Goodwill comes into office at an interesting time for the UK’s ports and their potential to support the country’s economic growth.

“At the Port of Tyne we have ambitious plans for growth and we are already investing further in our infrastructure to meet the requirements of our customers and to be able to keep pace with the changes in the shipping industry, from regulatory reform to the ever-growing size of the ships themselves, which of course places different demands on our river and quay infrastructure.”

Mr Goodwill has been MP for Scarborough and Whitby since 2005 and is is responsible for high speed rail (HS2), aviation, Europe and international affairs and maritime transport.

Mr Goodwill MP said: “The Port of Tyne is a model of innovation and a major contributor to both the local and national economy.

“The government is strengthening the UK’s maritime sector as part of our long-term economic plan.

“Our Maritime Growth Study, due to report later this year, will help ensure Britain remains competitive and a world leader in this vital industry.”

Source: ShieldsGazette