On Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 August 2017 the Dover Music Festival working with the Port, will highlight a variety of musical acts during the day and evening. This year, the music festival has been generously sponsored by port contractors, Volker Stevin Boskalis Westminster (VSBW). 

Celebrating its fifth year, the Port of Dover Community Regatta will take place on Sunday 27 August 2017, along Dover’s award-winning esplanade. 

Tim Waggott, the Port’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re planning another fabulous free weekend for the Dover Festival again this year. Together with our partners from the Dover Music Festival, we are committed to putting Dover firmly on the map as a popular family entertainment destination. These events are a great opportunity for the Port and community to come together and celebrate music, our shared maritime history and what we hope will be a glorious summer.” 

Roger Marsden, Dover Music Festival Director: “We’re delighted to be hosting the Dover Music Festival from Dover’s unique and historic Cruise Terminal One again this year. We want to build on the success of our first collaboration with the Port last year, and will be confirming this year’s acts soon.” 

VSBW Project Director, Stuart Eckersley said: “VSBW is happy to support this significant local community initiative.”

Further event details will be announced in due course but in the meantime please follow us on the @DoverPortEvents and @dovermusicfestival Facebook pages for regular updates.

Currently, dredging activity is in operation to remove soft sediments in the harbour prior to the piling commencing on or around the 24th April.

As with all such construction works, this activity will generate both air-driven and waterborne noise caused by the impact of the hammer on the pile.

We have been working hard to deliver a programme that manages the essential piling activity required for DWDR whilst still safely retaining as much use of the harbour for leisure users as possible.

A marine safety exclusion zone was established to ensure that all leisure users, both on the water and the beach, remain outside the recommended 100m action-level area to ensure their safety from exposure to air-driven noise.

A sub-acoustic investigation has been conducted to assess the anticipated noise and sound waves created by this process and has thoroughly evaluated the risk to swimmers from underwater noise.

As a result, there is a recommendation that swimmers, especially those swimming partially submerged and for sustained periods of time, refrain from swimming in the harbour while piling is in progress.

Those using surface craft and wearing properly fitting buoyancy aids at all times may continue to use the harbour as long as they remain outside the safety exclusion zone.

Piling will be limited to the following times:

• Monday to Friday: 8am to 6pm
• Saturday: 8am to 2pm
• There will be NO piling on Sundays and bank holidays

Signage will be displayed in prominent locations along the seafront promenade advising visitors of the changes to the leisure activities.

Jack Goodhew, General Manager – Special Projects, Port of Dover said: “This is very much a partnership with the local community and Port community stakeholders to ensure we deliver the prize of the longed-for regeneration of Dover whilst providing as much harbour leisure use as possible as we carry out these essential construction works in the short term.”

This initial piling stage will run through to the latter part of 2017.

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. Port of Dover

The Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) is a one-off opportunity for the regeneration of Dover, bringing new investment into the area. With UK Government planning approval and supported by a mix of private finance and European Union grant funding, DWDR will deliver:

• A transformed waterfront to ultimately attract a host of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants with Dover’s unique backdrop of the harbour, cliffs and castle;
• Relocation and further development of the cargo business with a new cargo terminal and distribution centre;
• Creation of greater space within the Eastern Docks for ferry traffic; and
• Much needed quality employment opportunities for local people.

DWDR is the single biggest investment ever undertaken by the Port of Dover with c.£250m committed for its delivery.

DWDR scored ‘Excellent’ for the CEEQUAL Interim Client and Outline Design Award – the evidence-based sustainability assessment, rating and awards scheme that promotes the achievement of high environmental and social performance in civil engineering, infrastructure, landscaping and public realm projects.

For the latest DWDR animations, illustrations and project plans visit www.doverport.co.uk/DWDR.

2. VSBW

VSBW is a joint venture between VolkerStevin and Boskalis Westminster to deliver the marine structures and bridge contract for the Port of Dover’s flagship Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) development.

With a contract value of £115m, this construction stage will include the design and build of two new berths including quay walls and land reclamation, a new marina pier, the marina curve, navigation channel and new lock gates, Bascule Bridge and capital dredging work.

The event was hosted by the Port of Dover and VolkerStevin Boskalis Westminster (VSBW), in partnership with Constructionline, at Dover’s iconic Cruise Terminal 1 (CT1).

Local businesses were able to discuss numerous sub-contracting opportunities and were provided with details of forthcoming work packages and given the opportunity to tender.

Jack Goodhew, General Manager – Special Projects, Port of Dover, said: “The day was a resounding success and it is clear local businesses are really interested in this exciting project.”

Stuart Eckersley, Project Director for VSBW, stated: “Bringing together potential subcontractors and suppliers with a large principal contractor in this way is a fantastic opportunity to strengthen the local economy, forging new business relationships and bringing job and training opportunities for local people.”

Natalie Hart, Key Account Manager for Constructionline said: “Constructionline were delighted to be a part of VSBW and Port of Dover’s supplier engagement event. We believe strongly in the value that local suppliers can provide to main contractor supply chains, and continue to proactively support events like this.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. Port of Dover

The Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) is a one-off opportunity for the regeneration of Dover, bringing new investment into the area. With UK Government planning approval and supported by a mix of private finance and European Union grant funding, DWDR will deliver:

• A transformed waterfront to ultimately attract a host of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants with Dover’s unique backdrop of the harbour, cliffs and castle;
• Relocation and further development of the cargo business with a new cargo terminal and distribution centre;
• Creation of greater space within the Eastern Docks for ferry traffic; and
• Much needed quality employment opportunities for local people.

DWDR is the single biggest investment ever undertaken by the Port of Dover with c.£250m committed for its delivery.

DWDR scored ‘Excellent’ for the CEEQUAL Interim Client and Outline Design Award – the evidence-based sustainability assessment, rating and awards scheme that promotes the achievement of high environmental and social performance in civil engineering, infrastructure, landscaping and public realm projects.

For the latest DWDR animations, illustrations and project plans visit www.doverport.co.uk/DWDR.

2. VSBW

VSBW is a joint venture between VolkerStevin and Boskalis Westminster to deliver the marine structures and bridge contract for the Port of Dover’s flagship Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) development.

With a contract value of £115m, this construction stage will include the design and build of two new berths including quay walls and land reclamation, a new marina pier, the marina curve, navigation channel and new lock gates, Bascule Bridge and capital dredging work.

3. Constructionline

Constructionline aims to improve efficiencies across the UK’s construction industry.

The service reduces the duplication of administration relating to the submission of supplier information for new project tenders while streamlining the procurement and assessment of contractors for construction service buyers.

Constructionline is open to public and private sector organisations and is owned by Capita. For more information on Constructionline please visit www.constructionline.co.uk

The DWDR Principal Contractor, a joint venture between VolkerStevin and Boskalis Westminster (VSBW), has mobilised various items of floating equipment which has begun arriving in Dover to undertake initial harbour dredging to remove soft sediment.

The first vessel to arrive was the ‘Kreeft’, a self-propelled crane barge which is fitted with bespoke attachments for the identification and removal of obstructions.

Dredging vessels include two trailing suction hopper dredgers, the 1,500m³ capacity ‘Sospan Dau’ and one of the 4,500m3 Causeway class vessels. These will dredge, remove and relocate soft sediment to the designated offshore licensed disposal area.

Harder material will be dredged with the ‘MP40’ backhoe dredger, which will transfer dredged material to the 800m³ self-discharging split hopper barges ‘Wadden 1’ and ‘Wadden 4’ for removal to the disposal area. The trailer dredgers and split hoppers will be steaming regularly between the Port and the disposal area ahead of the initial piling programme.

Harbour dredging is a standard practice within the Port industry usually undertaken as part of harbour maintenance and prior to major marine civil engineering developments. To facilitate these operations, there will be other support vessels such as tugs and survey vessels operating within the harbour.

Stuart Eckersley, Project Director for VSBW, stated: “Starting the main dredging activities marks an important milestone for the project.  We will be seeing a range of specialist vessels operating in the harbour from Boskalis Westminster’s extensive dredging fleet.”

Approximately one million cubic metres of silt, gravel and chalk will be removed from the harbour to allow for the creation of a purpose-built cargo and logistics facility, a new marina and a transformed waterfront at Europe’s busiest ferry Port.

Jack Goodhew, General Manager – Special Projects, Port of Dover, said: “The start of the preparatory dredging works for DWDR is another visible sign of our commitment to deliver this strategic infrastructure development, identified by the Government in its National Infrastructure Delivery Plan as a priority for port capacity investment.”

The Port expects to welcome up to twenty different VSBW vessels over the next eight weeks as it enters the harbour dredging phase this month prior to piling commencing.

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. Port of Dover

The Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) is a one-off opportunity for the regeneration of Dover, bringing new investment into the area. With UK Government planning approval and supported by a mix of private finance and European Union grant funding, DWDR will deliver:

• A transformed waterfront to ultimately attract a host of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants with Dover’s unique backdrop of the harbour, cliffs and castle;
• Relocation and further development of the cargo business with a new cargo terminal and distribution centre;
• Creation of greater space within the Eastern Docks for ferry traffic; and
• Much needed quality employment opportunities for local people.

DWDR is the single biggest investment ever undertaken by the Port of Dover with c.£250m committed for its delivery.

DWDR is identified in the Government’s National Infrastructure Delivery Plan 2016-2021 (published March 2016) as a priority for port capacity investment.  The Plan was produced by the Infrastructure and Projects Authority, reporting to HM Treasury and the Cabinet Office.

DWDR scored ‘Excellent’ for the CEEQUAL Interim Client and Outline Design Award – the evidence-based sustainability assessment, rating and awards scheme that promotes the achievement of high environmental and social performance in civil engineering, infrastructure, landscaping and public realm projects.

For the latest DWDR animations, illustrations and project plans visit www.doverport.co.uk/DWDR.

2. VSBW

VSBW is a joint venture between VolkerStevin and Boskalis Westminster to deliver the marine structures and bridge contract for the Port of Dover’s flagship Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) development.

With a contract value of £115m, this construction stage will include the design and build of two new berths including quay walls and land reclamation, a new marina pier, the marina curve, navigation channel and new lock gates, Bascule Bridge and capital dredging work. 

2. Images

All images have been provided by Nigel Scutt at www.Dover-marina.com 

The Port of Dover and its Principal Contractor, VolkerStevin Boskalis Westminster (VSBW), will be sponsoring and in attendance at the upcoming Dover Jobs Fair, organised by MP Charlie Elphicke, at Dover Town Hall on Friday 17th March between 10am – 3pm.

Local job seekers will be able to discuss the range of vacancies that are available now and throughout the next two years of construction, ensuring the local community benefit from the job opportunities DWDR will create.

Tim Waggott, Chief Executive of the Port of Dover, said: “The Port is committed to playing its part in delivering the vision for the Dover Western Docks Revival, as the town continues to see an unprecedented level of investment.

“The team behind the delivery of DWDR are keen to work with the local supply chain to ensure a lasting legacy for the community.”

Local suppliers and sub-contractors will also have the opportunity to find out how they can be involved through the local supply chain at the DWDR Meet the Buyer event at the Cruise Terminal 1 on the 4th April between 3pm – 8pm.

Stuart Eckersley, VSBW Project Director, said: “As the principal contractor for Dover Western Docks Revival, VSBW are committed to attracting and developing a talented local workforce, leaving a long-term legacy and contributing to the future prosperity of Dover.”

Local businesses and contractors will be able to talk to the engineers and procurement staff in order to get an idea as to the range of services required to help deliver the regeneration of Dover.

With DWDR integral to securing existing and creating employment for future generations to come, Dover and Deal MP Charlie Elphicke said: “It was great to see the work at the Western Docks. This is an important project in securing a better future for Dover and Deal. 

“Our area is now getting more of the investment it deserves – with shops, restaurants and new homes on the way. 

“Burlington House is down and building in Dover town centre is progressing apace.

“We’re starting to show what can be achieved when we roll up our sleeves and work together. Let’s keep it up and help make Destination Dover and Deal a reality.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. Port of Dover

The Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) is a one-off opportunity for the regeneration of Dover, bringing new investment into the area. With UK Government planning approval and supported by a mix of private finance and European Union grant funding, DWDR will deliver:

• A transformed waterfront to ultimately attract a host of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants with Dover’s unique backdrop of the harbour, cliffs and castle;
• Relocation and further development of the cargo business with a new cargo terminal and distribution centre;
• Creation of greater space within the Eastern Docks for ferry traffic; and
• Much needed quality employment opportunities for local people.

DWDR is the single biggest investment ever undertaken by the Port of Dover with c.£250m committed for its delivery.

DWDR scored ‘Excellent’ for the CEEQUAL Interim Client and Outline Design Award – the evidence-based sustainability assessment, rating and awards scheme that promotes the achievement of high environmental and social performance in civil engineering, infrastructure, landscaping and public realm projects.

For the latest DWDR animations, illustrations and project plans visit www.doverport.co.uk/DWDR.

2. VSBW

VSBW is a joint venture between VolkerStevin and Boskalis Westminster to deliver the marine structures and bridge contract for the Port of Dover’s flagship Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) development.

With a contract value of £115m, this construction stage will include the design and build of two new berths including quay walls and land reclamation, a new marina pier, the marina curve, navigation channel and new lock gates, Bascule Bridge and capital dredging work.

3. Image

MP Charlie Elphicke visited the Port of Dover on Friday 3rd March, 2017 to meet DWDR’s Principal Contractors.

• Image (left to right) – Stuart Eckersley, VSBW Project Director; Tim Waggott, Chief Executive of the Port of Dover; and Dover and Deal MP, Charlie Elphicke

Reopening on Wednesday 1st March, the Marketing Suite had been closed since December whilst it was relocated to the DWDR Project Office at De Bradelei Wharf following the Principal Contractor appointment last month.

Jack Goodhew, General Manager – Special Projects, Port of Dover, said: “The Marketing Suite provides the perfect oportunity for the local community and prospective developers to see the transformation taking place.

“The revival of the western part of the Port estate supports the developing destination agenda for Dover, being identified as the key catalyst for the wider regeneration of the area.”

The DWDR Marketing Suite will be open to the public to visit every Wednesday, from 9am to 5pm. However it can also be made available for private appointments by emailing DWDR@doverport.uk.

The Marketing Suite address is De Bradelei Wharf, Cambridge Road, Dover CT17 9BJ

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. Port of Dover

Named ‘Port of the Year’ at the UK National Transport Awards 2016, the Port of Dover handles:

• up to £119 billion of trade
• up to 17% of the UK’s trade in goods
• 2.5 million freight vehicles
• 2.4 million tourist vehicles
• 13 million passengers

The Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) is a one-off opportunity for the regeneration of Dover, bringing new investment into the area. With UK Government planning approval and supported by a mix of private finance and European Union grant funding, DWDR will deliver:

• A transformed waterfront to ultimately attract a host of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants with Dover’s unique backdrop of the harbour, cliffs and castle;
• Relocation and further development of the cargo business with a new cargo terminal and distribution centre;
• Creation of greater space within the Eastern Docks for ferry traffic; and
• Much needed quality employment opportunities for local people.

DWDR is the single biggest investment ever undertaken by the Port of Dover with c.£250m committed for its delivery.

DWDR scored ‘Excellent’ for the CEEQUAL Interim Client and Outline Design Award – the evidence-based sustainability assessment, rating and awards scheme that promotes the achievement of high environmental and social performance in civil engineering, infrastructure, landscaping and public realm projects.

For the latest DWDR animations, illustrations and project plans visit www.doverport.co.uk/DWDR.

2. VSBW

VSBW is a joint venture between VolkerStevin and Boskalis Westminster to deliver the marine structures and bridge contract for the Port of Dover’s flagship Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) development. 

With a contract value of £115m, this construction stage will include the design and build of two new berths including quay walls and land reclamation, a new marina pier, the marina curve, navigation channel and new lock gates, Bascule Bridge and capital dredging work.

The event hosted a real ice rink, a Christmas Market, Christmas workshops, food & drink concessions, music, entertainment and Father Christmas in his grotto.

The ice rink was the star of the show with 14,846 people getting their skates on and taking to the ice during the public sessions. In addition to this, 999 school children had exclusive sessions on the ice as well as Local Brownie Groups, Dover Rugby Club and Dover SmArt project’s young carers. Father Christmas greeted over 1360 delighted children in his magical Station Platform Building Grotto during the festivities.

Local companies provided all of the food and drink concessions. These included the wonderful Cockles & Co Champagne Bar, Riverside Catering, Hits the Spot French Crepes, The Street Pantry, That Burger, The Candy People and Simply Ice Cream, all supplying local produce from Kent.

Crowds were kept entertained with performances from the superb wartime singing duo Swingtime Sweethearts, Kent’s Michael Bublé tribute Jason Allen Sway and live music from local band Rudy Warman and the Heavy Weather. They were also treated to amazing ice dances from professional skaters Alexandra, Elliott and Edward Appleby. The youngsters from local dance troupe KC’s Dancers also received a warm reception from the crowds as they performed their lively dance routines.

The Port of Dover team was extremely grateful to the local sponsorship support for the event which was received from; E. J. Dittons Electrical Contractors, P. Summers & Sons, Charlier Construction Ltd, Megger Ltd, W. Enterprises, YMS Travel, Dover Transport Museum, Signscope Ltd, Dover Christmas Trees, Harbour Print, PowerHire UK, Cloke Scaffolding, Megger instruments Ltd. Along with RBS Bank, Moto Hospitality, Jackson Civil Engineering and DFDS Seaways who provided their record breaking Lego Ship for the official opening of the event on the 19th November.

Port of Dover Chief Executive, Tim Waggott said: “I am thrilled that our first White Cliffs Christmas event proved to be such a remarkable success for the entire local community, putting Dover firmly on the map as a destination for festive family fun. The event was almost entirely resourced by local companies, producers and entertainment ensuring that our economy received the maximum benefits.

“Along with local residents, people attended from all over the country as well as some day-trippers from France.

“The traditional English Christmas theme was particularly well received by visitors and concessions as a refreshing change from the more customary German themed markets that have previously been popular in other destinations.

“Event feedback was overwhelmingly positive from both visitors and concessions, and as a result of these successes I really hope to make the White Cliffs Christmas an annual festive tradition for Dover in the future.”

(image courtesy of Kent Clickers)

A consortium of leading British and European lenders has agreed a £200m package of loans to support the Port of Dover’s flagship capital building programme.

The Dover Western Docks Revival project will create a purpose-built cargo and logistics facility at the Port, which currently handles up to £119billion of UK trade each year.

Allianz Global Investors has agreed to provide the programme with a £55million private placement bond; RBS and Lloyds Bank have each provided a £35million revolving credit facility; and the European Investment Bank has confirmed a £75million loan.

Port of Dover Chief Executive, Tim Waggott, said: “Dover Western Docks Revival is the single biggest investment ever undertaken by the Port of Dover. It will define how we operate for decades to come.

“Currently handling 17 per cent of all the UK’s trade in goods, it is crucial the Port continues to evolve to meet the demands of an ever-changing political and trading landscape.

“The financial support supplied by blue chip lenders underlines the critical role Dover fulfils for UK and European economies, businesses and consumers. A prominent role which will remain into the future post Brexit.”

AllianzGI’s UK Infrastructure Debt Portfolio Manager, Adrian Jones, said: “The Port of Dover is a unique asset. Given its history and proximity to continental Europe, it is of vital importance to UK trade.

“The Port has assembled a cost-effective funding solution that matches the most cost-effective debt product to each maturity bucket – short-term commercial bank debt, medium term European Investment Bank debt and long-term private placement bonds – thus ensuring it can keep the cost of funding the project as low as possible for its customers.”

Jonathan Taylor, European Investment Bank Vice President, said: “This exciting new investment will transform Europe’s busiest ferry port, both improving the seafront and enabling increased and more diverse cargo to pass through Dover. The European Investment Bank is pleased to support this once in a generation project as part of our backing for crucial investment at leading ports across the UK and around the world.”

Guillaume Fleuti, Head of Infrastructure and Energy for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, said: “Dover has been the gateway for UK trade for over 400 years and is an iconic name within the Infrastructure market.

“Lloyds has a long standing relationship with Dover and the opportunity to support the Port in its expansion activities goes to the very heart of what Lloyds seeks to achieve – supporting clients and helping Britain prosper. The expansion of the Port is the next evolution in the history of Dover and one which Lloyds looks forward to further supporting.”

RBS acted as financial advisor to the Port of Dover as well as lender.  Bruce Riley, Managing Director within its Structured Finance team, said: “The diversity, tenor and flexibility of the overall funding package achieved reflect the strength of the Port of Dover’s business and its enduring importance to the UK economy. 

“RBS is proud and delighted to have been able to support the Western Docks Revival project which will have such a positive impact not only on the local community, but also on Britain’s connectivity with Europe. RBS is committed to UK infrastructure development and has supported investment in many of the UK’s largest projects over the past year.”

In addition to bespoke cargo and logistics facilities, Dover Western Docks Revival will also allow the Port to create a dedicated ferry terminal in the Eastern Docks and a transformed waterfront for Dover.

Such strong confidence in the Port and the importance of its role comes as VolkerStevin and Boskalis Westminster is confirmed as the main Dover Western Docks Revival contractor, the Port of Dover acquires cargo handling operations in the Port from George Hammond PLC, and freight figures for 2016 indicate another record year for Dover.