Member Article

Port of Tyne is 'European Port of the Year'

The internationally recognised Institute of Transport Management has awarded the Port of Tyne the accolade of European Port of the Year 2007. The Institute said that the Port was found to be “the most progressive Port in their quest for development and strategic enhancement” and had “achieved significant success through plans for expansion and diversification into previously untapped niches of their business”.

The contribution the Port of Tyne makes to the North East can now be quantified following a study conducted by research consultancy, Arup. It shows that the Port contributed £460 million to the regional economy in 2005 and makes a major commitment to the local community, which is reflected in its active sponsorship, investment and participation in a wide variety of regional initiatives.

Chairman of the Port, Sir Ian Wrigglesworth said: “It is a huge honour to receive this award and shows that the development and diversification within the Port has resulted in significant growth of the business. We are evolving to suit our market and to sustain our future and those of the many businesses that rely on our services.”

The Port of Tyne is a northern gateway encompassing over 20 miles of river frontage supporting closely grouped industries dependent upon access to the river for their livelihood. It is one of the largest UK trust Ports operated on a commercial basis and is the 8th largest car transhipment service in Europe.

Patrick Sheedy, Media and PR Director for the Institute of Transport Management said: “We are delighted to be honouring the Port of Tyne in recognition of their innovative development strategy, which has seen this Port go from strength to strength. In an industry as dynamic as transport, market responsiveness like this deserves to be applauded.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .