Report
July 7^th

Local government approval has been given for further expansion of Felixstowe's port, but central government approval and financial support is still sought.

Suffolk Coastal District Council has given permission for Felixstowe port's £70M expansion plans. The development will create 100 permanent jobs on a 40 acre site. Ten acres of riverbed will be reclaimed and the existing quay extended by 225 metres.

However the port seeks a subsidy for building a rail terminal and final government approval before work can begin.

Comment

This is almost certainly Felixstowe's last great expansion, and permission has been given despite many local doubts.

Central government is unlikely to refuse the required Harbour Revision Order, although it could make the provision of the third rail terminal, without subsidy, a requirement.

The benefits to the local economy have been overstated and are not really needed. There is an adverse impact on the local environment.

Why should the tax payer foot any of the bill for minimising the damage?