North East-based MEP and SNP President, Ian Hudghton, has welcomed the success of Aberdeen Harbour after a report revealed the port increased activity and contributed more than £400 million to the North East economy in the last year.

Mr Hudghton, a member of the European Parliament’s Committee on Transport said the increase in activity and cargo tonnage proves Scottish maritime infrastructure has massive potential for the economy while removing pressure on land infrastructure.

Commenting, Mr Hudghton said:

“The astonishing increase in activity and the contribution to the economy made by Aberdeen Harbour is hugely encouraging. This is hard evidence that maritime transport has enormous potential to contribute to the economy while easing pressure on land infrastructure. Aberdeen is superbly placed to establish and consolidate itself as a major maritime hub in Northern Europe and Aberdeen Harbour has done much to take advantage of this.

“I also support calls to enhance and modernise road and railway connections to the harbour, which cannot operate to its full potential without efficient, supporting infrastructure.

“Aberdeen has a centuries-old maritime tradition and I congratulate Aberdeen Harbour and its staff in this latest successful year.”