The future is looking bright for the port of UK’s King’s Lynn, where millions of pounds worth of investment is set to transform the site.
Associated British Ports (ABP) is keen to give the port a makeover, as part of a commitment to equip its sites with modern technology and machinery.
That investment includes a new £1.1m crane which will enable the port to accommodate wider vessels.
Paul Brooks, port manager, said: “The future is bright for the port of King’s Lynn, with the investment, and the continued support of our workforce and customers.”
John Jarvis, port operations manager, said ABP had recognised that investment was required, and was delivering: “Last year the port handled about 500,000 tonnes of cargo. While that has been stable for about three years, we are now seeing an upturn.
“We have just ordered a new £1.1m crane with a wider reach, which will enable us to accommodate larger vessels, up to 18m in width, and a wider scope of products, and also support our current customer base.
“We are also looking to build a new 15,000 tonnes shed to replace an existing one, which would cost about £3m.
“We are also looking to recruit more staff. Thirty-five full-time staff are already employed here.
“And we are also about to invest £200,000 for solar panels.”
The port also has three new forklift trucks in operation.
They are being used in a variety of activities such as loading bricks, timber, steel and general cargo.
These trucks have a lower fuel consumption, but provide improved driver comfort and aids.
The port’s main import is timber from Scandinavia and the Baltic while it exports wheat, barley and oilseed.
The Associated British Port in King’s Lynn. Picture: Ian Burt
