Skip the NI Direct Bar
Skip navigation

Minister Launches Consultation On Port Master Planning

Tuesday, 31 March 2009

Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy MP, MLA today launched a period of public consultation on guidance for port master plans

The Minister said: “The commercial ports in the North are vital to the future of our economy. I want to see them develop in a way which addresses their needs as efficient competitive businesses, yet which also fulfils their responsibilities to the environment and to their local communities.

“The draft guidance, which I have published today, sets out a proposal for best practice in long-term port master planning. It provides a framework to ensure that all stakeholders are properly involved in the development of their local ports.

“I invite all with an interest in the future development of our major commercial ports to consider this draft guidance.”

The draft guidance has been published for a 12-week consultation period, ending on 23 June 2009.

Copies of the Consultation Document can be obtained, free of charge, by either contacting the Ports and Public Transport Division on 028 9054 0646 or downloaded from the following link: http://www.drdni.gov.uk/index/publications.htm

Responses to the consultation can either be emailed to the Department at David.McCullough@drdni.gov.uk or posted to the address below:

Mr David McCullough
Department for Regional Development
Ports and Public Transport Division
3rd Floor Clarence Court
10-18 Adelaide Street
BELFAST
BT2 8GB

Notes to Editors

  1. Port Master Plans are designed to set out the ports strategic medium to long term (20-30 years) development plans.
  2. They are designed to inform port users, employees, local communities how they might expect to see the ports develop.
  3. They should also assist planning authorities, Roads Service, understand the developing needs of the port. Also, how possible adverse environmental impacts can best be mitigated.
  4. Port Master Planning will not be mandatory - however it is likely to be of most value to the major commercial ports: Belfast, Larne, Londonderry, Warrenpoint.
  5. Media queries to the Press Office, Department for Regional Development, Tel 028 90 540887. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.