Hamburg has unveiled plans to invest €1.1bn in port infrastructure expansion, with a focus on modernising the container terminal operations at the Waltershofer Hafen.
The Elbe approach to the Waltershofer Hafen is to be enhanced and additional terminal yards are created. Navigation towards the Container Terminals Buchardkai (CTB) and Container Terminal Hamburg (CTH) will be easier and faster.
New land for terminal operations will create additional capacity and enable further modernisation of container throughput operations.
Around 90 per cent of the largest container vessels calling at Hamburg are currently handled at the Waltershofer Hafen.
The ambitious plan includes widening the turning basin from its current 480 metres to 600 metres. This key enhancement will allow ships more room for safe turning manoeuvres.
Public funding will cover part of the costs, with the preliminary estimates indicating a total cost in the region of €1.1bn.
The infrastructure works are to be completed by the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) by the mid-2030s.
In addition to the public investment, Eurogate has signed a preliminary lease for the new areas and will invest at least €700m in expanding the existing container terminal, with completion planned within two years of the handover of the newly developed land.
“This project will enhance the performance of the Port of Hamburg and represents a vital investment in its long-term competitiveness. In doing so, we are also laying the groundwork for the next steps towards a climate-neutral port. As a first step, the HPA will update the planning before proceeding with construction, due to finish by mid-2030s,” said Jens Meier, CEO of Hamburg Port Authority (HPA).
