The masterplans have been moulded after PIANC commissioned a workgroup in 2012 to analyse the best working practices at ports globally.  

A statement from PIANC states that by focussing on “key performance indicators for cargo handling systems and terminal operations [it] allows the preparation of reliable and responsive port masterplans.”

PIANC is a forum in which professionals from around the world join forces to provide expert advice on cost-effective, reliable and sustainable infrastructure to facilitate the growth of waterborne transport.

Members of PIANC include governments, public authorities, corporations and industry specialists.

PIANC feel a key factor of the report is the discussion surrounding the changes in the models of port management and the two conditioning factors that have a profound impact on the growth and development of ports: how port operations are carried out, and how investments in ports are made.

They find that: “planning for the future of a port by considering how port operations will be organised and how investments will be financed are the two key elements for success.”

“The principal objective of a port masterplan is to communicate a ‘vision’ for the port to a wide range of stakeholders” whilst “integrating economic, engineering, environmental and safety considerations in the overall plan; promote the orderly long-term development and growth.”

Read the original PIANC report “Masterplans for the development of existing ports”