en.Wedoany.com Reported - Associated British Ports (ABP) and Stena Line have held a groundbreaking ceremony for their joint venture project at the Port of Immingham—the Immingham Eastern Ro-Ro Terminal (IERRT)—marking the start of marine works for this freight ferry terminal, which represents an investment of over £200 million.

UK Minister for Maritime, Aviation, and Decarbonisation, Keir Mather, joined guests in signing a pile foundation, confirming the official launch of marine works. The terminal is scheduled to become operational in 2028.

The IERRT project is part of ABP's strategy to strengthen the UK's supply chain and enhance trade connectivity. During construction and subsequent operations, it will bring economic benefits to the region and the UK, including the creation of hundreds of jobs.

Andrew Dawes, Regional Director for the Humber ports, stated that this is a significant milestone in the development of the new terminal, which will provide additional capacity to meet the growing demands of businesses in the UK and Northern Europe. The project will reinforce the Humber Estuary's role in supporting the UK's roll-on/roll-off maritime industry, while also adapting to trends toward larger, more sustainable vessels that require greater port infrastructure and more land space.

This milestone was celebrated at the construction site alongside representatives from freight companies and the project's main contractor, Dragados. In addition to supporting and promoting employment for businesses using the IERRT, the construction phase will create approximately 700 jobs, with around 200 permanent positions once fully operational.

Once operational, the terminal will enhance freight connectivity between the UK and Europe, helping to meet growing demand while promoting more efficient and sustainable cargo transportation.