A Blueprint for Ports Policy

In preparation for the 2010 election, the Association published “A Blueprint for Ports Policy” which set out a programme not just for the election, but for the lifetime of the government. The Association’s policy is that there shoudl be agreement betwen government and industry on what each should provide to create the conditions for a successful industry.

On the part of Government these are:

• Active support for a variety of ownership and corporate models – no ‘one size fits all’ policies
• An efficient, transparent and fit for purpose planning and consents regime
• Full public funding of road and rail connections to ports
• Streamlined border controls and reduced burdens on business
• Recognition of the major benefits of maritime transport with targeted assistance for modal shift

On the part of Industry these are:

• Delivering an efficient, market led ports sector responsive to users and contributing to the economy
• Sufficient resources to measure and minimise environmental impacts
• Information to regional and national planners on development needs through masterplanning
• Best practice on all aspects of marine navigational safety
• A safe, well qualified and trained workforce