May 17 - Aberdeen Harbour enjoyed a healthy 2009, with a bullish second half that exceeded forecasts.

In the face of a slight drop in activity over the first six months of the year, the port maintained total vessel tonnage of more than 24 million gross tonnes. This was on a par with 2008's record tonnages. However, cargo throughput softened to 4.5 million tonnes, down from 2008's 5 million tonnes.

Annual turnover increased from £21.98 million to £22.17 million and operating profit also rose from £7.25 million to £7.90 million.

The dip in tonnage represents a drop in activity in the oil and gas sector, though general cargo was up.

The port's five-year strategic plan will continue to produce infrastructure investment during 2010 as the £30 million Torry Quay project, to provide stronger quays for heavy lift cargoes, gets underway.

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