British Ports Association Outlines Post-Brexit Fears to UK Government

British Ports Association Chairman Rodney Lunn and Director Richard Ballantyne met with UK transport minister John Hayes MP today in Westminster to outline fears that the Brexit vote could disrupt cargo and logistics flows. There are concerns this might make UK ports less competitive and add costs to the freight industry.The BPA has also urged the government to set up special ‘port zones’ that would enable fast-tracked planning and licensing systems.

There was also a discussion on UK infrastructure. The BPA are keen to see increased government investment in national infrastructure, particularly in road schemes which would benefit port connectivity to national networks.

Commenting on the meeting, BPA Director Richard Ballantyne said:

“In the run up to Brexit this is a crucial time for the UK ports industry and we are grateful for the attention which the Minister and his officials have shown towards the sector. It is vital that government activity at our borders does not disrupt important gateways for freight and passenger routes. We would welcome any initiatives the Government has to streamline such processes. We would also encourage the Government to consider how transport infrastructure investments can help to connect ports to our national road and rail networks.”

On the mooted port zoning concept, Ballantyne said: “We envisage a system whereby port areas and surrounding clusters might be classified as ‘special port zones’ with fast tracked planning and licensing systems. Such zones could safeguard against restrictive environmental designations, which can often limit port growth and development.”