by Graham Tutthill

gtutthill@thekmgroup.co.uk

The Port of Dover has reported a successful year in 2010 despite the "continuing tough economic climate".

In its annual report, Dover Harbour Board says costs have been reduced by three per cent.

The operating profit of £11.9 million was slightly up on 2009 (11.8m), despite a slight reduction in turnover, down from £58.5m in 2009 to £57.2m last year.

Chief executive Bob Goldfield described it as a good set of results.

Although the overall cross-Channel freight market grew by 3.7 per cent, the port of Dover experienced a decrease of 209,000 units which Mr Goldfield said reflected a return to the previous normal level after Eurotunnel recovered its market share following the problems it experienced in 2009.

The number of passengers using the port went up by 0.8 per cent, the number of cars by 1.5 per cent, and the number of coaches by 6.2 per cent.

The total number of vehicles travelling by ferry is still at more than five million.

There were 167 cruise calls during the year with more than 300,000 passengers, up from 136 cruise calls and almost 260,000 passengers in 2009.

There was a substantial increase in the volume of fresh produce discharged at the port’s cargo terminal.

"We have achieved a very good set of results against a backdrop of extremely challenging economic conditions and within the constraints imposed by our current Trust Port status," said Mr Goldfield.

"This not only illustrates that the port is a strong and robust business, but that the time is right for us to build on that reputation and success by further growing the business and providing the world class facility that present and future users and stakeholders deserve."

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