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Dover is key to government growth plans

[ September 23, 2024   //   ]

The Port of Dover revealed a new framework to unlock its full potential and drive economic growth at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool on 23 September.

Port of Dover 2050: Empower Exchange aims to facilitate an rise in the value of trade of up to £173bn a year, an increase of 20% based on current capacity.

With the Labour Party’s stated aim being to rejuvenate Britain’s economy, the port says it has faced challenges in ensuring trade continues to flow.

Chief executive Doug Bannister, explained: “If you want to kickstart economic growth and drive a decade of national renewal, then prioritising Dover is essential. In 2019, economic analysis revealed that the Port of Dover handles a third of the UK’s trade in goods with the EU. Despite Brexit and the challenges of the pandemic, Dover has continued to facilitate £144 billion in trade, ensuring essential supplies reach businesses across the nation.”

He added: “The new Labour government’s focus on improving our trading relationship with the EU aligns with our goals. Firstly, we need a workable solution to the EU’s Entry-Exit System to maintain and enhance the efficiency of the movement of trade. Our ambition is to make trade even more seamless than it is today.

“We are dedicated to achieving Port of Dover 2050. This framework will not only enhance trade but also support local communities through new jobs and future skills, improve environmental sustainability, and drive innovation. However, we cannot achieve this vision alone. To realise this vision, we are calling for a supportive policy environment that enables major capital investment, technological advancements, and infrastructure upgrades.”

These include permanent solutions to international traffic management through Kent and across the Channel, supporting decarbonisation of the port power supply, maritime transport and road haulage, facilitating the transition to an automated, digital, net-zero port and research and development to build a leading maritime sector and fosterfuture job opportunities. 

Bannister concluded, “By getting Dover right, we can serve at the forefront of increased trade, economic activity, and success with the EU, supporting businesses nationwide. Let’s develop long-term strategic solutions and work together to deliver enduring investments that foster growth and prosperity. Together, we can unlock the full potential of Dover and ensure a thriving future for Britain as the Great British trading nation.” 

portofdover2050.commonplace.is 

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