Belfast port handled a record level of business last year, with the value of goods passing through it topping €29 billion. Barry O'Halloranreports.

The Port of Belfast company said yesterday that passenger numbers were up 4 per cent at almost 1.3 million, while 161,000 containers passed through it in 2007, an increase of 10 per cent on the previous year.

It also handled 1.6 million tonnes of animal feeds, 191,000 tonnes of steel and 146,000 tonnes of paper products.

"Belfast remains the largest break bulk port on the island with construction-related materials handled increasing by 6 per cent to over 650,000 tonnes for the first time," its statement said.

"Overall it's estimated that in 2007 the port handled goods with a value in excess of €29 billion," it added.

The goods handled amounted to 17.5 million tonnes.

The port's commercial director, Joe O'Neill, predicted yesterday that traffic through the hub would double over the next 15 years. He said the port was committed to investing €630 million in a range of new facilities to accommodate that growth.

This year the port is due to open a €53 million ferry terminal for Stena Line, and is planning to boost its deep-water facilities at Stormont Wharf.