Millbay Docks, on a 50-acre site originally opened by Associated British Ports, is to be further developed, with Plymouth City Council signing a memorandum of understanding supporting the venture with major user Brittany Ferries.
Currently, the French operator handles 460,000 passengers a year at the port, with more than 150,000 vehicles passing through, and cargo contributing of £95 million a year. Chief executive Christophe Matthieu said Brittany Ferries was delighted to support the strong message of collaboration, adding:
‘We have provided support for Plymouth since our company’s inception in 1973 and 50 years on are looking forward to further economic growth, with more cross-border trade and options at sea and while in port.’
Pont-Aven (2004/40,835gt), Brittany Ferries’ largest vessel until the arrival of 42,000gt China-built E-Flexer vessels Galacia and Salamanca, sails from Plymouth to Roscoff in France or the Spanish port of Santander.
While sailing northbound from Spain on 8 August, Pont-Aven had to divert to Brest in France to land crew members who were feeling unwell. None of the 982 passengers on board were affected and Pont-Aven was able to finish her voyage to Plymouth.
Photo = Brittany Ferries’ flagship Pont-Aven arriving at Plymouth, where a major expansion plan is being developed. (Paul Biggs)
