A NEW direct road link into the Port of Boulogne is due to be opened on Saturday.

Completion of the 76 million-euros, three-kilometre dual carriageway project, will link motorists arriving in the port from the UK onto the main A16 and entire French motorway network.

The port authorities say the new road connection will also mean that the London to Paris journey via Dover and Boulogne will provide a quicker travelling time than via other Channel routes such as Dover to Calais.

The introduction of the SpeedFerries service between Dover and Boulogne in May last year has been vital to the port and town of Boulogne’s plans to regenerate the UK visitor market.

Franis Leroy, president of the Boulogne Chamber of Commerce, said: "The restoring of a direct ferry service for Boulogne has provided a significant economic boost for the town and the further improving of our transport links will also be important for the port and town’s future prosperity.

"Our main focus will always be to encourage visitors from the UK to remain in the town and region for day trips, short breaks or longer stays, but this latest major development for Boulogne will continue to reinforce tourism links and further emphasise our return to the international, cross channel travel market.

"The Port of Boulogne, with this new motorway connection, now provides the quickest access to the Cote d’Opale, Pas de Calais and rest of France."

Continued improvements are being made to the visual appeal of the town of Boulogne such as the medieval city centre in the Old Town, tourist attractions, boulevards, shops, restaurants and hotels, as part of a campaign to increase the number of visitors from the UK.

New projects include the construction of a dedicated fast-ferry passenger terminal in the port and the opening of more luxury category hotels in Boulogne.