The Port of Sunderland has chalked up an 85% rise in exports during the second quarter of the year, helping to keep goods flowing in and out of the UK during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The municipally-owned port, which marked 300 years in operation in 2017, played a pivotal role in sustaining several key sectors and supply chains during the period, with ships arriving carrying everything from agricultural fertiliser to steel, woodpulp and other raw materials.
From April to June, the port handled 71,748 tonnes of cargo set for export, compared to 38,661 tonnes for the same period last year, with vessel destinations around the North and Baltic Seas.
It has also supported the UK’s energy sector by providing port services and infrastructure over the spring and summer period, allowing bunkering, crew change, demobilisation and mobilisation activities during the lockdown period.
Matthew Hunt, director of Port of Sunderland, said: “The last 12 weeks have been extremely testing for all and we couldn’t be any prouder of the resilience and hard-work displayed by everyone at the port throughout this period.
“To see cargo volumes rise to such levels - while ensuring we remained open for business throughout – is a magnificant achievement and is testament to the vital role that ports the length and breadth of the UK play in keeping the nation moving all year-round and specifically during the pandemic.
“Thanks to the incredible versatility of the port team, we were able to continue supporting the vital offshore sector in a period of increased demand and uncertainty.”
The port, which has received an £8.2m investment after areas of its estate were granted Enterprise Zone status three years ago, has also started a programme of engineering works which will lead to major improvements to its nine-acre East Shore development site
Coun Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “There’s no hiding from the fact that the past three months have been extremely challenging for UK ports. Demand for essential goods and materials has continued to rise, adding further strain on the sector at a time when many were forced to work from home or alter their usual working practices to abide by social distancing measures.
“However, the results released this week by the port show just how fantastic a job each and every person at the organisation has performed during this crisis, sustaining entire supply chains and the keeping key sectors moving.
“We have continued to invest in Port of Sunderland over the past decade - and with a further £8m currently being pumped into the port’s infrastructure over the next few years – we’re confident it will continue to support the UK economy well into the future.”
