Monday 19 October

A major multi-million-pound investment in the River Tees has been officially opened by PD Ports, with local MP Luke Myer joining port bosses and community leaders to celebrate the new facility.

The new Tees Marine facility at Cargo Fleet Wharf brings together PD Ports’ Marine and engineering teams in a modern base, designed and built largely by the company’s own engineers. The teams play a vital role in keeping the River Tees safe and navigable, maintaining shipping routes and supporting businesses across Teesside and beyond.

Luke has long championed Teesside’s maritime industry. Before being elected, he served on the River Tees Port Health Authority as a councillor. Since entering Parliament, he has pressed ministers to upgrade rail freight links to Teesport, raised the importance of port investment with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and secured a commitment from the Maritime Minister to work with local leaders to improve maritime skills and training. He is proud to have a long track record of support for PD Ports.

The investment comes as the Labour Government backs Britain’s ports and maritime industries, including £448 million for clean shipping innovation and reforms to support port infrastructure development. Luke joined Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke and Redcar & Cleveland Mayor Ceri Cawley at the opening, which also featured a performance from the Men of Staithes.

Paul Foreman, Chief Executive of PD Ports, said:

“The River Tees is a major economic asset for our region and our responsibility to it extends far beyond our own operations at Teesport. As Statutory Harbour Authority, we have an important role to play in keeping the river safe, navigable and ready to support the businesses that depend upon it. That means continuing to invest in the people, infrastructure and expertise needed to fulfil that responsibility for the long term.

“This multi-million-pound investment is a very visible example of that commitment. It is an investment in our Marine team, but importantly it is also an investment in the river and the wider economy it serves.”

Luke Myer MP said:

“The River Tees is the beating heart of our industrial economy. This fantastic investment is a real vote of confidence in Teesside and the skilled people who keep our port running.

“PD Ports are an excellent local employer and I’m proud to back them, as well as the rest of our local maritime sector.

“Our ports have a huge part to play in Teesside’s future. We need to keep backing them with the infrastructure, investment and skills to bring more jobs and opportunities to our region.”