The Port of Ostend has transformed from a municipal company into a public limited company and set out a 10-point plan for growth, including in the offshore wind sector.
Port chief executive Dirk Declerck said: “Port of Oostende wants to realise growth that creates sustainable employment.
“To this end, a new course was laid down which, among other things, aims at diversification.
“We also need to generate more income so that we can continue to invest; for example in the Blue Economy and infrastructure.”
He added that the port’s REBO terminal wants to remain a hub for the offshore sector in the southern part of the North Sea.
“We are working to guarantee continuity together with the other shareholders and customers.”
The changes mean the port’s board of directors is now composed of Declerck, six independent members and six city councillors.
New board director Bart Tommelein said: “We will stimulate further developments in the offshore sector and the associated employment opportunities. Blue Growth is and will remain extremely important for our city.”