Maplin: The Case for a Seaport

Abstract

The article examines technological changes in transportation and cargo handling methods for bulk and general cargo and the effects on existing facilities in ports. These changes have created an urgent need for modern seaport facilities which could be ideally created at Maplin. The Maplin development had been planned to provide a new London airport, a seaport and a light industrial/ commercial complex on land reclaimed from the sea. Alternative plans have been developed for a seaport only. The airport project has now been abandoned. The Maplin seaport is the most important element in the develop? ment plan ofthe Port of London. The proposed location is outstanding in terms of economic geography and in potential seaward and landward access. The fact that the dredging operations will provide two benefits?the deep channel and a contribution to the reclamation?is a further fortuitous advantage. The potential of the site is so great that not only the Port of London but also the United Kingdom would miss a great opportunity for development if the Maplin seaport plans were not realized. Some of the economic, engineering, hydraulic, financial, operational and political aspects of the project are outlined.