Investing in Port of Workington - Key strengths

The Port of Workington's advantages stem from its strategic location, capacity to handle bulk and diverse cargo types, proximity to key industries, and strong intermodal connections. These factors make it a vital asset for the region's economy and logistics network now and in the future.

Strategic location

The Port of Workington benefits from its position on the Irish Sea, providing direct access to both the UK mainland, Northern Ireland/Republic of Ireland and the Isle of Man. It is a key port for trade with Europe, particularly Ireland, and offers a gateway for goods moving between the UK and international markets.

It serves as a regional port for Cumbria and the surrounding North West area, offering important access for industries in the region, including manufacturing, energy, and agriculture.

Intermodal connections

The port has significant intermodal transport connections, including direct rail handling capability that allow cargo to be transported efficiently by road, rail and sea. This rail connection is especially beneficial for the movement of bulk materials to and from industrial sites.

Almost £15 million has recently been invested to improve access to the port and for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) access via A66/A596 and onto the nearby M6 motorway and national road network.

Significant investment in the port's transport network will enable future economic growth and efficiency getting in and out of the port. This supports the established clusters in manufacturing, regional freight and supply chain resilience.

Proximity to key industries

The port is close to several industries in Cumbria, particularly those involved in energy (nuclear), construction, and manufacturing. This creates an advantage for the efficient movement of bulk materials and finished goods, both in and out of the region.

Bulk cargo handling capacity and deep water access

The Port of Workington is well-equipped to handle bulk cargo, including timber, steel, aggregates and liquid bulk, and for nuclear decommissioning and new build projects. It has facilities that are particularly suited for industrial freight, which is important for the region's manufacturing and construction sectors and future clean energy needs.

The port has a deep-water quay, which allows it to accommodate vessels with significant tonnage (up to 137 metres in length and draught of up to 8.5 metres), handling larger shipments than some smaller local ports.

Operational flexibility

The Port of Workington is capable of handling a wide range of cargo types and can adapt to the demands of different industries including obtaining any necessary accreditation for input. It has experience in handling both bulk and general cargo and can offer flexibility in port services.

The port also provides a variety of services, from cargo handling to warehousing and logistics, making it an important regional hub for both importers and exporters.

Clean energy and renewable energy focus

The area around Workington is known for its commitment to renewable energy and the port has the potential to establish large-scale energy production on site. This is becoming increasingly important as businesses and industries move toward more sustainable practices.

The port's role in supporting industries like wind energy, through the transport of equipment or materials, adds to its value in the context of green energy transitions. The port has the capacity to develop onsite energy generation to include solar, green hydrogen, energy from waste or biomass and sustainable aviation fuel. The port is also well positioned to be a critical hub for construction, commissioning and marshalling activities.

Existing manufacturing and skills base

Supporting Cumberland's comparative advantage in manufacturing employment, there are large amounts of land available to expand manufacturing operations on site. Currently, the port supports key logistics partner Thomas Armstrong Group for manufacturing operations and Robin Rigg for operations and maintenance (O&M) activity.

The land currently being remediated at Oldside and the wider 20 hectares of land available is suitable for further manufacturing activities.

Businesses investing in the port could benefit from access to this skilled talent pool, making it easier to recruit workers with the expertise needed to operate in complex industries.

Key employment sectors in Cumberland vs Great Britain, 2023

Comparison of the percentage of people employed in three key sectors.

Manufacturing

• Cumberland: 19%
• Great Britain: 8%

Construction

• Cumberland: 7%
• Great Britain: 6%

Health

• Cumberland: 14%
• Great Britain: 13%