Millbay Docks in Plymouth, owned and operated by Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK’s leading ports group, has officially marked the completion of a major transformation programme with a celebratory opening event held on Wednesday 28 May at the upgraded ferry terminal.
The milestone event brought together civic leaders, industry partners and stakeholders to recognise the port’s evolution into a modern and resilient international gateway.
The ceremony included a ribbon-cutting at the top of the new passenger boarding bridge by Christophe Mathieu, CEO of Brittany Ferries; Julian Walker, Chief Commercial Officer and Regional Director at Associated British Ports (ABP) and Councillor Mark Lowry, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Finance ahead of Brittany Ferries’ Pont-Aven departing for Santander. There was also the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, and guests were also given a guided tour of the upgraded facilities, which now include:
A state-of-the-art passenger boarding bridge, improving accessibility and streamlining the boarding process.
A strengthened West Wharf, enabling the port to accommodate larger vessels and increased freight volumes.
A modernised terminal building with enhanced passenger amenities and operational efficiency.
Upgraded freight and cruise infrastructure, supporting Plymouth’s ambitions for sustainable economic growth and increased maritime traffic.
The £23 million investment programme was delivered through a partnership between ABP, Brittany Ferries, and Plymouth City Council, with support from the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport. It represents one of the most significant infrastructure upgrades at the port in recent decades.
Julian Walker, Chief Commercial Officer and Regional Director at ABP, said: “This opening marks the successful delivery of a bold vision for Millbay. From the launch of the transformation programme to yesterday’s celebration, we’ve worked closely with our partners to create a future-ready port that supports trade, tourism and sustainability.
“This £23 million investment demonstrates our long-term commitment to Plymouth, and we’re delighted to celebrate this achievement alongside representatives from the many companies and teams who played a vital role in making the project a success.”
Christophe Mathieu, CEO of Brittany Ferries, added: “Whether travelling on wheels or by foot, arriving or departing, all passengers will benefit enormously from these improvements to Millbay. We salute all those involved in a project which paves the way for vessels of the future.
“I’m delighted that our longest-standing port relationship is going from strength-to-strength and we are proud to be part of today’s celebration.”
Leader of Plymouth City Council, Tudor Evans OBE, said: “This is such a big day for Millbay, for Plymouth and for the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport.
“We committed to working more closely with ABP to unlock opportunities and funding to secure the long-term future of the ferry terminal as well as improve passenger experience and strengthen its freight capability.
“It has been truly fabulous and fascinating to witness Freeport funding help change the face of Millbay.
“Our port strategy highlighted just how important our four ports are to Plymouth and the city’s economy. This is one of the city’s most important assets and I am delighted that we have been able to play a part in its growth journey.”
In 2024, funding from the UK Government, as part of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport seed capital programme, was allocated to support ABP’s programme of improvements. The £1.3million seed capital funding enabled the infrastructure works at West Wharf, which were critical to the success of the overall upgrade works. Plymouth City Council is the accountable body for these funds.
Jan Ward CBE, Chair of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport said: “It’s fantastic to see this project completed with support from the Freeport’s seed capital funding. This is a key infrastructure upgrade for Millbay Docks which will enable ABP to optimise and grow their port operations, increase ship rotations and explore new short sea shipping routes for the future.
“Through strategic infrastructure investments like these, and as part of our wider seed capital programme, the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth, attracting investment, and enhancing trade opportunities for the region.”
The terminal has already welcomed its first Brittany Ferries sailings of the 2025 season, with passengers now enjoying a significantly enhanced travel experience from Plymouth to Europe.
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