#Ports&Shipping - A public consultation process launched by Drogheda Port Company wants to hear from the local community before drafting a Master Plan that will secure the future of the Co. Louth port for decades to come.

The master planning process will consider numerous factors, including the Project 2040 national policy context, to ensure that the port is equipped to meet the needs of Drogheda and the wider north-east region well into the future.

“Drogheda Port is a key economic driver for the north-east region, facilitating job creation, international trade and investment” begins Joe Hiney Chairman of Drogheda Port Company.

“But we must ensure that a strategic and sustainable plan is put in place so that Drogheda Port maximises its potential and continues to meet the needs of port users, the local community and the wider Northeast region into the future.”

Drogheda Port Company are undertaking a master planning process. This process will ensure that strategic, economic, community and environmental factors are all considered and carefully factored into the long-term plan for the Port. Once completed, the Master Plan will chart a course for Drogheda Port from 2020-2050, helping to ensure that port meets the needs of the region.

The port company have engaged a top consultancy in Brady Shipman Martin to work with them on the Master Plan. The company are a specialist planning, landscape and environmental consultancy. They have worked on many high-profile projects including the Wild Atlantic Way, Cork City Harbour and Dublin’s Grand Canal Docks.

“We are eager to hear from the Drogheda and wider north-east community and we are encouraging the public to submit their feedback on 8 key themes in our Issues Paper including employment growth, transport links, facilities development, tourism and corporate responsibility” says DPC Chief Executive Paul Fleming.

In addition to the public consultation, DPC will also engage directly with elected representatives, local government, customers and other stakeholders to get their input on these important issues.

Paul Fleming continued “This period of public consultation is critically important to the master planning process. The opinions and ideas of local people and stakeholders will help devise a plan that is well-rounded and will serve Drogheda and the north-east region well, now and for decades to come.”

Joe Hiney concludes “Our ultimate aim is to ensure that Drogheda Port continues to evolve and develop services that will facilitate job creation and economic growth. With the help of the public and stakeholders, we will develop a master plan that will deliver on those aims.”

A copy of the Issues Paper is available from Drogheda Public Library in Stockwell Street or the Port Company HQ at Harbourville. The closing date for submission is 30th April.