The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a SEK445m (€41.75m) loan agreement with the Municipality of Ystad to be used to invest in new bigger vessels-ready infrastructure.

In detail, the works will include the construction of two new onshore power supply-equipped ferry berths at a new pier located in the outer port dock, with associated facilities in reclaimed areas located to the east of the new berths.

The investment will also consist of dredging works in the existing outer dock, the construction of a new breakwater south of the existing eastern breakwater, with a new reclaimed platform for future port activities expansion, and the extension of the breakwater at the western part of the port.

In result, ferries up to 240 m in length will be able to call to Ystad.

"Ystad is a key connection point for tourism and transport in Sweden. As the climate bank of the EU, the EIB wants to provide finance to projects that seek to reduce the environmental impact of their operations, while keeping business going and stimulating sustainable growth and job creation. This project is spot on in all of those senses," Thomas Östros, Vice President, EIB, commented.

Björn Boström, CEO, the Port of Ystad, added, "With this investment, the Port of Ystad will soon be well prepared to further consolidate its position as the third largest ferry passenger port in Sweden. Now, in an even more environmentally friendly way."

Photo: EIB