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“One of the prime reasons car manufacturers choose Southampton is that we are the first and last deep sea port in and out of northern Europe, which makes us a hub for the automotive industry. Cars imported and then trans-shipped on or exported from Southampton go via 110 services per month to over 50 ports and 42 countries – we’re the Heathrow of the seas,” observed Welch.
“We’ve seen significant growth in automotive volumes in the past few years,” he added. “Just In Time manufacturing means materials are imported, cars made and then exported in a matter of days. We’re investing significantly in ways to continue attracting car manufacturers to the port.”
Brexit: business as usual
While Brexit uncertainty continues, it’s business as usual at the port. “Like any business, we want clarity around the trading environment. You need to know the rules to play the game. We can see scenarios where Brexit will be an opportunity for the port and where there could be risks. At the moment, all we can do is continue operating under the current rules. We think the port should be resilient whatever the outcome because 90% of our port trade is currently outside the EU,” said Welch.
Breath of fresh air
ABP has identified air quality as one of the port’s most important legacies. The company recently published its Cleaner Air for Southampton report. “Air quality in Southampton is much better than it used to be, but ABP recognises the work we must do to make it even better,” said Welch.
Examples include investment in electric vehicles used around the port and ships owners investing in cleaner propulsion technology, such as using LNG, to reduce emissions when ships are in a port. It’s a question of balancing the need for cleaner air with commercial demands, as Welch noted: “We have a responsibility to make sure continuous improvements are being made while avoiding unintended consequences that might have a negative impact on the city’s success.”
THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE – SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018
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Moving containers and cars by rail is another area where ABP is reducing emissions caused by vehicle traffic. Southampton port has the highest proportion (about 36%) of containers coming and going by rail of any UK port. ABP also operates the UK’s largest inland rail terminal in Birmingham. About 20% of vehicles for export come by train.
Around two thirds of cruise liner passengers embarking on a cruise arrive either in their own vehicles or are dropped off. Congestion pinch points are something ABP and the council are looking to address through more effective traffic management. In fact, most passengers arrive after the morning rush hour and passengers finishing a cruise generally leave Southampton before the evening rush hour. “Cruise lines typically book 12-24 months in advance, so to an extent we are able to work with the council to plan for and alleviate traffic flow issues in advance,” said Welch.
ABP has been working with partners to encourage more cycling around the city and port and is investing in low-energy LED technology for the hundreds of lights in the port. The latest solar panel installation on the Ocean Cruise terminal generates surplus electricity that is sold back to the grid. ABP is also looking at an
interesting emerging technology that will enable solar panels to be installed on road surfaces and which could be used in its short-stay car parks.
“The port uses 25% less power than we did 10 years ago, even though it is far busier,” said Welch.
Investing in the future
ABP’s main challenges include finding space to expand and ensuring the road and rail infrastructure can support growth. The company owns land on both sides of Southampton water and is considering this and other options to develop the port.
ABP expects to invest £150 million in the port over the next five years, but while expansion is key it is not being done at any cost, as the company’s commitment to improve air quality and its work with the council on plans to improve access via the M3 and M27 demonstrates. Welch said: “We are investing to maintain the port’s leading position in the world and are committed to looking at options for growth that ensure our environmental responsibilities are balanced with the needs and considerations of the local community.
parissmith.co.uk
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