Holyhead port to remain closed until 15 January following storm damage

The Port of Holyhead will remain closed until at least 15 January following severe damage caused by Storm Darragh, Stena Line has confirmed.

The update, delivered on Tuesday, has prompted coordinated efforts from the Welsh and Irish governments to address the disruption.

The news comes as a blow to passengers and businesses, particularly during the busy Christmas travel season.

Holyhead, a vital link between Wales and Ireland, has seen significant damage, forcing ferry operators to redirect services to alternative ports.

In a joint statement, the Welsh and Irish governments acknowledged the challenges posed by the extended closure.

“This was not the news any of us wanted to hear. However, it provides clarity so that contingencies can be put in place,” the statement read.

Ferry services redirected

Ferry operators, including Stena Line and Irish Ferries, have redeployed vessels to other ports with spare capacity to accommodate passengers and freight.

Travellers affected by the disruption are being urged to check ferry companies’ websites for updates.

“We know that this will cause some anxiety for people who are planning to travel to and from Ireland to be reunited with their loved ones this Christmas,” the statement added.

Impact on businesses and local community

The prolonged closure of Holyhead port is expected to cause further strain on businesses in North Wales and Ireland, as well as the local economy in Holyhead itself.

Holyhead is one of the UK’s busiest ferry ports and plays a crucial role in trade and travel between the two nations.

The Welsh Government, Irish Government, and Isle of Anglesey County Council are working together to minimise the impact and support the affected communities.

Stena Line’s commitment to repair

Stena Line has assured authorities that the damage sustained at the port is repairable and confirmed their commitment to reopening Holyhead as soon as possible.

“We will continue to work together in the short term to ensure passengers and freight get through, and in the longer term to preserve the resilience and success of the Port of Holyhead, which is so important to both our nations,” the statement concluded.

Passengers booked on Holyhead crossings are encouraged to contact their ferry operators directly for further assistance and travel alternatives.

Gareth Davies MS, the Shadow Cabinet Minister for North Wales has called on the Irish, British and Welsh Governments to urgently intervene to get Port of Holyhead reopened.

Mr Davies, who also represents the North Wales region in the Senedd, said:

“The failure to reopen the Port is starting to have a huge impact on the area and will affect the wider Welsh and British economy. Stena needs to be open and transparent about what action they are taking to resolve this issue. If they need support from the Welsh and UK Governments, then the Governments should be prepared to step in.

“The continued closure is having an adverse impact on the local economy and the wider supply chain.

“It is also vital that passengers have all the information they need to make alternative travel arrangements, should this be necessary.”