DP World Nanaimo Inc. (DP World) has proposed a major expansion at the Duke Point Terminal in Nanaimo.
As the operating tenant of the terminal, DP World has submitted a proposal to the Nanaimo Port Authority (NPA) to expand the facility to boost trade and enhance shipping operations, both domestically and internationally.
Located just one kilometre south of the Duke Point BC Ferry Terminal at 750 Jackson Road, the Duke Point Terminal is a multi-purpose cargo facility and was originally constructed in 1982.
Currently, the terminal is used for storing and shipping forest products and containers, but DP World’s proposed expansion aims to increase its capacity to handle more trade, improve efficiency, and provide better terminal access.
The expansion will focus on lengthening the existing berth face from 182 meters to 325 meters and improving its ability to handle both container vessels and barges simultaneously.
This means the terminal will be able to accommodate a wider range of vessels, making it an even more vital hub for international and domestic trade.
Other proposed upgrades include increased berth space, expanded storage, quay crane upgrades (used to service marine container vessels and barges), and new infrastructure—meaning new truck gates, construction of administrative and maintenance buildings, and more.
Additionally, the improvements will also involve upgrades to the existing utilities and security systems, ensuring smoother and more secure operation.
Once the expansion is complete, the Duke Point Terminal will be able to handle larger vessels and provide much-needed space for future growth.
As DP World continues to work closely with the Nanaimo Port Authority and Trans Port Canada on the approval and development of this plan.
In early November, the Government of Canada updated the status of the project stating the Nanaimo Port Authority, Transport Canada, and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans have found that the Duke Point Terminal Expansion is unlikely to cause significant environmental harm.
The decision considered Indigenous rights and knowledge, community input, public comments, and mitigation efforts related to habitat, heritage resources, air quality, noise, and light.
Stay tuned for more updates on this project as it progresses.
