The new Secretary of State for Transport, Chris Grayling, visited the Port of Liverpool on Friday, August 5, to view the latest developments at the container terminal Liverpool2.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Minister to view progress on the project, which started handling its first containers last month as part of trials ahead of a phased opening throughout the summer.
The Liverpool2 project forms part of a wider £750 million investment program into biomass, steel, port-centric warehousing and infrastructure by Peel Ports at its sites in Liverpool and along the Manchester Ship Canal.
The Minister met Peel Ports’ Chief Executive, Mark Whitworth, to discuss the importance of investment in the north and issues on transport integration and infrastructure improvements to improve freight connectivity between the port and major logistics centers.
“ We very much welcome the Minister’s interest, which maintains the government’s support for our efforts to facilitate UK trade through this key cargo gateway, ” said Whitworth.
“The timing of the visit is particularly opportune given the recent arrival of the first containers at the port during our marine trials. With full opening now imminent, we will soon be able to offer companies ship-to-door access to the heart of the UK market via the biggest container ships in the world.”
Commenting on the visit, Mr Grayling said: “ The major investment we are making in transport across the North West will improve journeys for local people as well as helping industry grow across the region.
“This is part of our plan to invest in the North, and make an economy that works for everyone – not just the privileged few – by ensuring economic prosperity is spread throughout the country. Better infrastructure is likely to boost productivity.”
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