WE ARE LARNE PORT

The new service, which replaces the Larne-Ardrossan service, is part of P&O Irish Sea’s determination to offer improved facilities to handle the increasing traffic on the popular Northern Ireland- Scotland sailings. Associated British Ports, who own the Port of Troon, have built a new ro-ro berth and terminal at the East Pier for P&O Irish Sea which will allow them to introduce larger vessels to the route as well as providing first-class facilities for commercial drivers.

“We have extensive freight marshalling facilities at the East Pier Terminal at Troon which will allow us to provide more parking for unaccompanied traffic using this route,” said Phil Simpson, Commercial Manager, P&O Irish Sea Freight. “The new terminal building has also been designed to cater for accompanied traffic with drivers showers and washrooms and a lounge with snack bar facilities, all of which will make life more comfortable for commercial drivers crossing to Scotland via this link.”

Troon is just three miles from Glasgow Prestwick Airport, which is one of Scotland’s leading global airfreight hubs.

“Our move to Troon reflects P&O Irish Sea’s commitment to making life easier for the freight industry by providing excellent on shore facilities. Our close proximity to Prestwick Airport means that we can offer excellent and efficient global links to air-freight customers,” adds Mr Simpson.

P&O Irish Sea’s ferry, European Highlander, which operated the Company’s Larne- Ardrossan route, has been renamed the European Mariner and is now providing the daily Larne-Troon service.

Associated British Ports has invested more than £5 million in the new East Pier Terminal in Troon, which will be officially opened, by Ms Sarah Boyack, MSP, Minister for Transport and Planning, Scottish Executive, at a ceremony at the Port on Monday, 9 July 2001.

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Notes to Editors: For further information contact Sharon Toner, 028 2887 2182 or 07799 718987