A £3 million funding pledge from the UK government brings the direct ferry route development from Scotland to Dunkirk forward, with claims that it will support with upgrades to the Border Force and customs infrastructure at the Rosyth port.
It has been almost 8 years since freight ferries last sailed between Rosyth and Europe, and more than 15 years since the last passenger service. Subject to a commercial agreement between Forth Ports and a ferry operator, this new route would operate for both freight and passengers. The route would link with Dunkirk’s rail terminal, connecting the port to major centres across the European Union (EU), creating new opportunities for Scottish exporters.
This £3 million investment from the UK’s Growth Mission Fund will help boost Scotland’s infrastructure and tourism, making the country a more ideal place to live and work. The investment will also allow for the growth of Scottish business, with the EU being a key market that currently accounts for 45% of Scotland’s exports. This development coincides with the UK seeking to strengthen border trade co-operation with the EU through the new EU/UK trade agreement.
Since March, the UK government has been running a series of masterclasses to guide Scottish businesses through the processes of selling their goods and services overseas, highlighting the opportunities available in the European market.