£4m food inspection suite opened at port
Transport Minister Robert Goodwill with Felixstowe port chief executive Clemence Cheng unveiling a plaque at the opening of the new food cargo inspection facilities. Photo: Stephen Waller. - Credit: Picture: Stephen Waller
A new £4million ambient-temperature food cargo examination facility was officially opened at the Port of Felixstowe today by Transport Minister Robert Goodwill.
The 3,045 sq m project has involved a major refurbishment and expansion of the suite and provision of new offices for Suffolk Coastal Port Health Authority.
Mr Goodwill said: “This new state-of-the-art facility will ensure that vital imported products stay as fresh as possible.
“Some 40% of the food on our supermarket shelves arrives by sea, so it must be checked efficiently in the most hygienic conditions.
“The significant investment currently underway across the UK means our major ports remain world leaders, contributing billions to the UK economy and creating thousands of skilled jobs.”
Steve Gallant, Suffolk Coastal cabinet member for community health, said with port and council staff next door, examinations can be done even more quickly.
He said: “Being neighbours will also allow a closer understanding of each other’s business and that can only lead to even better efficiency and effectiveness in the future.”
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Clemence Cheng, chief executive officer of the Port of Felixstowe, said the ambient-temperature facility opened yesterday was an example of the port’s commitment to investment to ensure customers receive the highest possible levels of service.
He said: “The dedication of our experienced examination facilities team, and the close working relationship they have with the Port Health Authority, will ensure that together we deliver the very best, most efficient inspection process of any UK port.”
