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EU coordinators review Atlantic port links
Bilbao Port Authority hosted European transport officials in Bilbao as the port moves ahead with expansion works aimed at strengthening its role on the Atlantic Corridor.
The visit included François Bausch, European Coordinator for the Atlantic Corridor, and Gesine Meissner, European Coordinator for the European Maritime Space. Their roles match EU transport corridor assignments.
Central Breakwater takes focus
The delegation reviewed the second phase of the Central Breakwater, also known as Kai-mutur Nagusia. The project is expected to create 31.2 hectares of new port area and about 1 kilometre of new berthing quay.
For breakbulk and project cargo operators, that matters. Port space is not just land. It is breathing room for heavy units, energy components, storage, pre-assembly and cargo staging.
Bilbao targets industrial cargo growth
The meeting covered Bilbao’s development plans, connectivity, digitalisation, resilience and sustainability needs. The port has previously linked the expansion to high space occupancy and demand from operators.
With European ports under pressure to handle energy transition cargo, the Bilbao project sits in a wider race for usable quay space, hinterland access and reliable Atlantic logistics capacity.
Funding and delivery
Sacyr said in 2024 that it would develop the second phase under a €55 million budget, with works including new quay infrastructure and port surface creation.
The project also connects with wider decarbonisation plans, including onshore power and renewable energy facilities linked to the port expansion.
