Wholly owned Patrick’s Port operator Asciano has announced it has approved a capital investment program aimed at comprehensively redeveloping and expanding its container terminal at Sydney’s Port Botany.

 

The $348 million redevelopment package will see the introduction of state-of-the-art Terminal handling technology, additional cranes and straddles and upgraded employee facilities.

 

The redevelopment and expansion project will see the Port house four births and 1400 metres of quay line, with capacity upgraded from 1.15 million to 1.6 million TEU per annum in a bid to meet trade growth forecasts.

 

“The redevelopment will reinforce Patrick’s position as Australia’s leading stevedore, ensuring our ongoing competitiveness by delivering improved customer service, higher levels of safety, and significantly enhanced operational efficiency and productivity.” Asciano CEO and Managing Director John Mullen said.

 

The expansion is due for completion during 2014, with Asciano saying it will deliver substantial returns from productivity improvements, including significant cost savings and will secure Patrick’s tenure at Port Botany until 2043.

 

“The redevelopment of our Port Botany Container Terminal together with the previously announced 9 new cranes and additional equipment at our Brisbane, Melbourne and Fremantle and Sydney container terminals will continue to drive productivity on Australian wharves towards best practice,” Mr Mullen added.

 

Asciano has admitted that 270 positions are expected to be made redundant at the end of the project work in mid-2014, but has reiterated its strong commitment to redeployment opportunities for affected staff.

 

“We are committed to working closely with all employees impacted by the decision and will immediately commence consultation with our workforce and their representatives on the likely implications on future labour requirements and working arrangements,” Mr Mullen concluded.