A positive decision on the expansion of Galway Port would mark a new era for the facility and city, a Fine Gael Senator said.
Senator Seán Kyne, a former Director of Galway Port, and Fine Gael’s candidate in the upcoming Galway West bye-election said the proposed expansion represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernise the port and unlock the significant economic and social benefits for Galway.
“I fully support the expansion plans of the port to facilitate larger ships and to free up the inner dock for living, recreation and leisure.
“This project will prepare Galway for the future by creating a more accessible port which is better positioned to support trade, tourism and potential strategic uses such as a naval berth.”
The plans submitted to An Comisiún Pleanála represent a vision for a 21st century port that no longer relies on a gated harbour model and instead integrates more naturally with the city and its economic ambitions.
The Fine Gael Seanad leader discussed the issue with Tánaiste Simon Harris today on a visit to the constituency.
Senator Kyne highlighted that the funding model for Phase 1 of the development is designed to be largely self-financed.
“The sale of the existing strategic land bank would provide the capital for the first phase.
“This land has the potential to deliver new inner-city housing alongside modern office space, helping to revitalise the city centre and support sustainable urban growth.
“Galway Port is an ambitious, forward-looking plan for its future, and I look forward to its development as a world-class port at the head of Galway Bay,” added Senator Kyne.
