Stena Line and Peel Ports Group have entered into a definitive agreement to secure Stena Line’s operations at Heysham Port for a period of 77 years, extending its commitment to the vital Belfast-Heysham trade corridor until 2100, the companies announced on Tuesday 19 December.
Stena Line also plans to significantly increase freight capacity on the Belfast-Heysham route with the introduction of two new ‘NewMax’ ferries in 2025. These vessels will provide an 80% increase in cargo capacity and will be equipped to run on methanol fuel, in line with Stena Line’s sustainability objectives.
Together with Stena Line, Peel Ports will invest in terminal infrastructure improvements at Heysham, including an automated 'smart gate’ check-in system and additional trailer parking capacity to facilitate the efficient operation of the new vessels.
The parties will also work together to secure the necessary shore-side infrastructure for potential future green shore-side power operations, furthering their shared vision of establishing a green shipping corridor.
This week, the Swedish shipping company also announced the expansion of its Irish Sea network with the launch of a new direct freight route between Dublin and Birkenhead (Liverpool) from mid-February 2024.
The service, which will initially operate with one vessel, will complement the existing Dublin to Holyhead and Belfast to Liverpool services, providing additional flexibility and options for freight customers.