Feature, Freight News, Sea


Heysham future-proofs for the Futura

[ September 26, 2025   //   ]

Peel Ports has completed the first phase of a £10m investment plan into Heysham Port to support the launch of Stena Line’s first hybrid freight ferry.

The 147-metre Stena Futura, which entered service in September, will operate 12 sailings per week to Dublin with sister ship, Stena Connecta, set to launch in early 2026. Together, they are expected to enhance Stena Line’s freight capacity by 40%.

Under the first phase of the upgrade, Peel Ports has introduced a new terminal operating system which has already improved vessel turnaround times for port users and will maintain operational speed as larger, higher-capacity vessels are introduced in the future.

Work is also progressing quickly on creating 70 new trailer parking spaces in preparation for the construction of a new automated entrance, scheduled for completion in early 2026. 

Mersey port director, Phil Hall, said: “Our improvements at Heysham Port are already proving to be a gamechanger, helping us to streamline our operations while also supporting Stena Line’s ambitious growth plans. 

“The improvements are being driven by our goal to improve efficiency and sustainability, both for us and our customers. It’s a huge investment for us as a group, and one that’s already proving successful on both counts. We’re confident that the upgrades will futureproof operations at the port and create growth opportunities across the entire region.”

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