People’s Port Trust steps up bid for control of Dover

21 Feb 2012 - Port Planning

• Group launches recruitment drive in bid to gain further local support

The People’s Port Trust has upped its bid to take control of the Port of Dover by approaching local businesses and households to sign up to the group as part of a massive recruitment drive.

The group, set up following the Dover Harbour Board's controversial plans to privatize the docks, will send 55,000 letters offering people the chance to join the organization for a one-off fee of £10.

Those who agree to the membership will be able to receive regular updates on the People’s Port’s progress as well as an exclusive invite to the group’s AGM held at the start of each year.

The contribution of the local community over the coming months is essential in what is likely to be a pivotal point in the future of Dover Port, says People’s Port Trust Chairman, Neil Wiggins.

“We're coming to some important stages and we feel the time is right to seek membership to the Dover People's Port Trust,” Wiggins told this is Kent.

“It's all about getting people to have their say on how the Port of Dover should be run if our society bid to take it over is successful.”

In March last year, 5,000 Dovorians participated in a referendum held by the People’s Port to vote on whether they agreed with the Dover Harbour Board’s decision to privatize the English port. An overwhelming majority of 98 percent rejected the proposals.

“If we get a response similar to the referendum then I will be very happy indeed,” added Wiggins.

“So far all the work we have done has come from the pockets of the board members and we've done a lot – referendums are not cheap. As we push on we're going to need money to help the trust do its work.”

“The £10 is a one-off fee and will give members a stake in our port bid. These are not shares in the port but if our bid is successful, it will give people a say in how it operates,” concluded Wiggins.

Individuals and businesses who vented an interest in the People’s Port group will receive their invitation to join the organization on March 1st.