Major long-term export agreement for Quinn Cement
Warrenpoint Harbour contract set to boost cement export capacity and create new jobs
QUINN Cement (NI) Ltd and Warrenpoint Harbour Authority (WHA) have signed contracts which will see the construction five new cement silos at Warrenpoint Harbour with a total storage capacity of 7,500 tonnes, dedicated to the export of bulk cement from the Quinn Cement operations in Ireland.
The 10-year renewable agreement between Quinn Cement and WHA (which underpins a £2.5 million investment) represents a major statement of intent by both parties and will assist Quinn Cement in significantly expanding their operations in the UK, while at the same time providing additional long-term throughput at the harbour.
Work on the project is due to commence immediately with completion expected in September 2016.
The commencement of work on the Warrenpoint facility is one half of a larger strategic development by Quinn Cement aimed at increasing the company’s presence in the UK cement and construction markets.
Quinn Cement are also currently in the process of extending their storage and distribution centre at Crown Wharf, in Rochester, where they are constructing two additional storage silos that will bring their total capacity at the Kent port to 7,400 tonnes. Construction of this extension is due to be completed by the end of this month.
Approximately 20 people will be employed during the project build phase at Warrenpoint and the increased export capacity for Quinn Cement will secure and increase job opportunities at Quinn Building Products’ facilities in Ballyconnell and Derrylin, as well as providing additional support opportunities at Warrenpoint.
Additionally, Quinn Cement say they are in discussions with regard to setting up a second import facility in Great Britain.
Commenting on the developments, Liam McCaffrey, chief executive officer of Quinn Industrial Holdings Ltd, said: ‘This is a very significant development for the business which will allow us to provide an even stronger service offering to our UK customers, as well as creating additional local job opportunities servicing the growing UK construction sector.’
Peter Conway, chief executive officer of Warrenpoint Harbour Authority, added: ‘This new 10-year agreement and capital investment project consolidates an already excellent business relationship between Warrenpoint Port and Quinn Cement, and creates a significant economic benefit for the Harbour and the Northern Ireland economy.’
