Quinn Cement (NI) Ltd and Warrenpoint Harbour Authority (WHA) have signed contracts, which will see the construction five new cement silos at Warrenpoint Harbour, with a total storage capacity of 7500t dedicated to the export of bulk cement from the Quinn Cement operations in Ireland.

The 10-year renewable agreement between Quinn Cement and WHA involves a GBP2.5m investment by Quinn. Work on the project is due to commence immediately with completion expected in September of this year.

Quinn Cement is seeking to significantly expand its operations in the UK while at the same time providing additional long-term throughput at the harbour. The commencement of work on the Warrenpoint facility is one half of a larger strategic development by the company aimed at increasing its presence in the UK cement and construction markets.

Quinn Cement is also currently in the process of extending its storage and distribution centre at Crown Wharf, Rochester, where it is constructing two additional storage silos bringing its total capacity at Rochester to 7400t. Construction of that extension is due to be completed at the end of March.

Additionally, Quinn Cement is in discussions with regard to setting up a second import facility in Great Britain.

Commenting on the development Liam McCaffrey, CEO of Quinn Industrial Holdings Ltd, the holding Company for Quinn Cement, said: “This is a very significant development for the business, which will allow us to provide an even stronger service offering to our UK customers as well as creating additional local job-opportunities servicing the growing UK construction sector.

"We are delighted to be associated with Warrenpoint Harbour Authority who have been extremely good to work with. I believe this is a strong message of confidence for both our organisations, the local economy generally and a clear demonstration of commitment to our customers.”