December 18th, 2007
SYDNEY – Several Cape Breton business organizations have agreed to combine efforts in advocating for the development of the port of Sydney.
Working in tandem with The Marine Group, the new collaborative comprising Sydney & Area Chamber of Commerce, Cape Breton Partnership, and JCI Cape Breton will be known as the Port of Sydney Advocacy Council.
Under the direction of The Marine Group, a comprehensive master port plan has been developed for Sydney. The document is the product of exhaustive research, broadly based consultation, expert analysis and comparative assessment. Due to be released early in the New Year, the plan speaks to the considerable economic impact of the port along with its significant potential going forward.
The Marine Group comprises Laurentian Energy Corp., Logistec Stevedoring, Marine Atlantic, Nova Scotia Power, Provincial Energy Ventures, Sydney Steel and Sydney Ports Corporation.
Jim Wooder, The Marine Group spokesperson said: “Cape Breton’s private sector can see the obvious potential of the Port of Sydney to stimulate further growth and development of the local economy. Out of necessity, moving forward with plans for the Port will require collective action. The energy, know-how and membership of the Chamber, Partnership and JCI Cape Breton will facilitate implementation of the Port of Sydney Master Plan.”
Efforts are underway to finalize a plan for individual harbour improvements, including an environmental assessment and improved access. Aspects of the work are expected to get underway early in the New Year.
