Montrose Port Authority handled a record 3.169 million gross tonnes of vessel last year - a 37% increase on 2017.
The Angus support and service hub for the energy, agricultural and general cargo industries received private and public investment of £7.7million last year, which fed into its quayside expansion project.
The project will allow for larger cargo vessels to dock in Montrose, delivering millions of pounds in transport savings and environmental benefits. With phase one completed in March 2019, phase two is due to be ready for action in autumn this year.
Last year MPA also created an export facility to service GE company Baker Hughes’ Montrose-based subsea centre of excellence, which represents a £31 million investment in the town.
The port welcomed its first cruise liner in August as part of a plan to diversify into the tourism industry, and it is hoped to welcome a second this September.
MPA chief executive Nik Scott-Gray said: “2018 was an extremely busy year for Montrose Port – these record-breaking figures are a true reflection of our strategic mindset, consistently flexible approach and willingness to diversify.
“Good growth within the oil and gas industry, as well as a steady performance from the general cargo market have consolidated our position as a key hub for both industries, and I am confident that our redevelopment plans can only strengthen that status.”
