Expansion of North port

New cranes and grabs are part of the port extension

The Port of Blyth in Northumberland has announced a major £5m investment programme due to continued trade expansion.

The main focus of investment will be at the Port's Battleship Wharf terminal where a new warehouse and 120 metre quay will be built.

This terminal already handles almost 20% of Port of Blyth's total cargo, and it hoped the investment will allow rapid growth to continue to 2010.

The Port's Commercial Director, Martin Lawlor, said: "We are talking to a number of operators requiring port side warehousing... with particular strong interest from those related to agriculture.

'Trade growth'

"This is no doubt due to Blyth's excellent location for servicing the North East, North West, and the Borders."

The investment also includes new cranes, grabs, and storage bins.

The Port's Chief Executive, Ian Robertshaw said: "It is most satisfying to see the continued trade growth over Battleship Wharf and we are delighted to be making this substantial investment.

"This forms part of our long-term strategy to expand operations on the north side of the river."