Long-term future of Freight Services Agency secured

In a deal that will see Motis Ireland Limited take over the Freight Services Agency (FSA) business at the Port of Dover, Dover Harbour Board (DHB) confirms that contracts have been signed and exchanged with a well respected freight services provider.

Bob Goldfield, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, said: "The deal has all been about delivering new opportunities for the business, adding value and securing its long-term future. This has to be good news for staff, our ferry customers, the community and, with the prospect of a lorry park, the county as a whole."

Paul King, Finance Director of Motis, said: "We look forward to operating and developing a thriving business, supporting the local economy and the ability of the Port to provide world-class services to its customers."

Dover District Council has welcomed the announcement, stating that the future prosperity of the Port is vital to the health of the local economy. Councillor Paul Watkins, Leader of Dover District Council, said: "The Port is the major employment site in Dover and must continue to prosper. Furthermore, with the shortage of appropriate lorry parking facilities in the county, the creation of a lorry park will be of great benefit to both Dover and Kent in offering suitable provision, keeping Dover's streets clear of lorries and thereby helping to create the right environment for attracting much needed inward investment."

The deal reflects DHB's commitment to exploring opportunities to develop and grow the business and to securing jobs or creating the environment in which new opportunities can be realised.

Bob Goldfield added: "We warmly welcome Motis Ireland Limited to Dover and are excited by their plans for the FSA, which will utilise their expertise and give Dover an edge in the marketplace. We wish them every success."