Drogheda Port Company commissioned a major study (in September 2002) to assess the future potential of the town's port in the light of the increase in cargo movements since the successful opening of Tom Roe's Point Terminal in 2000, and in light of the considerable projected increases of trade to and from Ireland over the years ahead.

The study is examining the extent of new facilities required to match the current and projected future traffic levels. It will address the need for sustainable economic development through the inclusion of environmental, social and cultural aspects.

The study is being conducted by a consortium of four companies, led by Baxter Eadie Ltd from Richmond, UK which specialises in the port and shipping sectors and which won the contract via a competitive bidding process through the European Journal. The other partners are WSP (Dublin) which will cover all the environmental and land transport issues, Kirk McClure and Morton (Belfast) on engineering aspects, and Eagle Lyon Pope (London) on navigation and ship design issues.

As part of the ongoing study process the consultants have now presented from the original study area a total of 11 sites to the company as having the potential to cater for additional port facilities. The sites are located in the planning jurisdictions of Drogheda Borough Council, Louth County Council, Meath County Council and Fingal County Council. Each of the potential sites are being assessed under a detailed range of Environmental, Operational, Land Access, Marine Access and Engineering criteria.

It is expected that the study process will be completed by the third quarter of this year.

Further Information:

Paul Fleming Chief Executive

www.droghedaport.ie