Plaid leader tells of deep impact of port closure on town

TRADERS remain in the dark about the business support available nearly seven months on from the closure of Holyhead port, Plaid Cymru’s leader has warned.

- Jes Woords

Rhun ap Iorwerth told the Senedd the closure of the port has had a deep economic impact on the town, with a fall of almost £500m in trade through the port in December.

Two berthing incidents involving Irish Ferries led to the port's closure over Christmas, before partial reopening on January 16, but terminal three remains closed until at least Tuesday, July 15.

The Ynys Môn Senedd member said one hotel operator alone lost out on almost £15,000 worth of bookings overnight during one of the busiest trading months of the year.

Mr ap Iorwerth warned some businesses reported a 90% drop in trade, with footfall down 36%, but traders and Anglesey council are still being “left in the dark” about support.

Ken Skates, Wales’ Transport Secretary, told the Senedd the council had made a request for further funding, which is being “appraised as swiftly as possible”.