Analysis of private seaport development: the port of Felixstowe

Abstract

This paper provides a detailed overview of the historical development of the major container port of Felixstowe, the 15th largest such facility in the world, and the fourth largest in Europe after Rotterdam, Hamburg, and Antwerp. The analysis reveals a port, which has developed in a rather unconventional manner compared with most other major ports. Key factors influencing the successful development of the port are evaluated. Key factors impeding the future development of the port are discussed, as is the port's strategy to deal with capacity constraints. The paper considers the role of various public sector entities with regard to port development and regulation and highlights general policy issues brought out from the analysis. The author concludes that full cost recovery for private ports, privatised ports, as well as for public ports, remains an elusive ideal.