Ports and shipping minister Stephen Hammond says he wants to ensure that the port of Dover makes the most of the expected growth in freight and passenger traffic.

His comments followed a visit to Dover on Monday which has been described by MP Charlie Elphicke as “a significant
development” in plans to reform the port.

Mr Hammond met port representatives, both employers and staff, town and district councillors, the People’s Port Trust, members of the Dover Society and other community organisations.

Afterwards, he said the prospects for the port were “bright” and the government wanted to make sure Dover was in the best position to take full advantage of the economic recovery.

Mr Elphicke said he did not accompany Mr Hammond on the visit because he wanted the minister to talk to people on their own.

“He is considering the next steps with regard to reforming the port of Dover,” he said. “It was very important that he met as many people as possible to understand what the community wants before putting proposals forward on how the port should be reformed for the future, in particular as a community-led port which is able to raise investment.”

Mr Elphicke said the people should have their say over future plans, and that they should then support it.

“It’s about a future that we can build together, and everyone has to be a part of it.

A spokesman for Dover Harbour Board said: “It was good to see the shipping minister visiting Dover as its port continues to work towards its commitment of becoming the best port in the world for the benefit of its customers and community.

“The board enjoyed discussing with him the positive steps being taken as he spent the day meeting many of its valued stakeholders, including members of staff.”

Former mayor Cllr Sue Jones was among those who met Mr Hammond, both as a town councillor and chairman of the White Cliffs Country Tourism Association. “It was good to be asked for our opinion on what is best for Dover,” she said.

Full story in today's Dover Mercury.