First export consignment in more than 10 years

PORT of Wisbech has just handled its first export consignment in more than 10 years when Glazewing Ltd loaded 2,200 tonnes of scrap metal bound for northern Spain for reprocessing.

It is expected that the new arrangement will lead to a further two exports per month to Spain totalling some 4,00 tonnes.

Glazewing has traditionally exported scrap metal for processing via the Humber Ports, which was a round trip of more than 240 miles from West Dereham. With Wisbech just 20 miles away, Glazewing is now keen to explore the port as an alternative export facility.

The first 2,200-tonne shipment was loaded on board the MV Brandaris on Saturday:it is the largest deadweight capacity vessel to have arrived at the port this year.

David Grief, managing director of Glazewing, said: "Using Wisbech Port is an exciting new venture for us. All the indications are that this will save us money and improve efficiency.

" With fuel costs now being a major cost factor, Wisbech has become a sensible option for us. We are in the business of recycling and we are keen to be as environmentally friendly as possible. We forsee this shipment as the start of a long association with the port."

The Fenland District Council-owned port, which is operated by the Port of Wisbech company, has long been used by importers who value its strategic position and handling capabilities, but it is only now being recognised as viable by manufacturers in Britain looking to export their goods. The Port of Wisbech is only 60 miles away from the industrial gateway of the Midlands, Leicester and Nottingham so firms which currently pay huge haulage costs moving goods to and from the Humber or Felixstowe are now investigating the viability of smaller ports like Wisbech.