Holyhead port set to fully reopen on 1 July: IEA reacts

According to the BBC News, one of Britain’s busiest ports is on course to fully reopen on 1 July after it was damaged by Storm Darragh, it has been announced.

Two berths at Holyhead, which links north Wales and Dublin, were damaged on 7 December, having been closed since 7 December.

On Monday it was confirmed that planning is underway for the restoration of the second berth – Terminal 3 – with the current estimate for reopening set for 1 July 2025.

Stena Line and Irish Ferries have been running their regular four daily services from a single site, rather than the usual two.

A temporary timetable for the partial reopening has been operating while the second berth is being repaired.

But traders in Holyhead said they had seen a huge drop in footfall and earnings since the closure of the port, which sees two million passengers a year and 1,200 lorries and trailers crossing every day.

Stena Line said: “Work is progressing to ensure that the berth is returned to full operational capabilities as safely and efficiently as possible.”

It added that looking ahead, it remained committed to the “long-term resilience” of Holyhead Port and ensuring its sustainable future.

The Irish Exporters Association (IEA) has commented on the announcement from Stena in relation to Holyhead Port. Simon McKeever, CEO of the IEA, said:

“We welcome the announcement from Stena Ports. It provides a certain degree of certainty for exporters and will help companies with schedule planning over the coming months. However, the current berthing situation means shorter turnaround times for ferry operators, resulting in restricted freight capacity. We expect the situation to become more challenging when the traditional busy spring and early summer season begins. We will continue to engage with all stakeholders, particularly with the Irish and Welsh Governments, to minimise the impact of the ongoing disruption and to ensure the long- term resilience of Holyhead port.”