Container port infrastructure in North-West Europe: policy level modeling

Against the background of economic downturn and recovery, this study analyzes container port infrastructure, shipping flows and congestion patterns to support policy level modeling rather than more micro-focused quayside-level modeling. It does so using a discrete-event simulation model of the North-West European container port and shipping sector to inform in this application a UK policy perspective. Two scenarios are investigated and a number of policy implications highlighted. The model advanced can, with appropriate re-calibration, be applied in other container port and shipping sectors.