Associated British Ports (ABP has announced the latest tranche of a major capital investment programme which secures the long-term future of its five south Wales ports. 

The new investment of £42m includes the delivery of a new deep-water berth at Middle Quay, Newport, the UK’s largest steel-handling port, and will also facilitate upgrades at Swansea and Cardiff.

It forms part of a total capital investment programme of £137m for ABP in South Wales, which is designed to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of South Wales’ port infrastructure. 

The announcement coincides with the Welsh Government’s Investment Summit, where the first minister highlighted announced several major investments in Wales – an event ABP is attended as part of its commitment to driving growth and opportunity across the region.

Development at the Port of Newport, with the introduction of a new quayside, represents a significant opportunity to increase the port’s handling capacity. It will enable the port to handle some of the world’s largest vessels and strengthen its role in global supply chains. It will also unlock significant opportunities for businesses seeking access to international trade routes. 

Alongside the Newport upgrade, ABP’s investment will deliver significant infrastructure improvements at its ports of Swansea and Cardiff – two locations that play a vital role in supporting diverse cargoes and regional industries.

Cardiff is a key hub for construction materials, agribulk and project cargo, while Swansea provides strategic access for renewable energy projects and bulk commodities. These upgrades will improve operational efficiency and ensure customers benefit from modern, sustainable infrastructure. 

Ashley Curnow, divisional port manager, Wales and Southwest at ABP, said:  “Introducing a new deep-sea berth to the market is a cornerstone of our strategy for Newport and for our South Wales ports more widely. It is rare to see a new quayside of this scale come to market, and it will unlock new opportunities for trade and investment across the region. 

“We’re proud that Newport is the UK’s leading steel-handling port and its strategic location means it plays a vital role in connecting Welsh industry to international markets and supporting the UK’s wider supply chain.”

First minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, added:  “Long term investment in our port infrastructure is vital to economic growth and international trade and investment, especially to key strategic industries such as offshore wind. This investment is a real boost for our coastal economies and the people and businesses who rely on them.”   

This programme forms part of ABP’s wider strategy to invest in its UK port network, supporting sustainable growth and enabling customers to meet evolving market demands.