A £5 million investment has guaranteed the future of Teignmouth Port. The enlargement of the Western Quay means that larger cargo ships can use the port with faster turnaround times. The importance of the docks to the local and regional economy, particularly agriculture and the clay industry, was highlighted at the official opening ceremony yesterday. Associated British Ports manager Colin Greenwell said that without the docks, Devon's clay industry would struggle to compete with cheaper imports from the Ukraine. 'Ports are strategically important community assets and Teignmouth is a fine example. 'The south west has a sizeable agricultural industry that is dependent on an economic supply of animal feeds ad fertilisers and the port plays a vital role in supplying that. 'We have other tricks up our sleeve too as the more recent production of cement slag shows. 'This new business received a 50 per cent government grant to fund the infrastructure needed to move the traffic to Devon in the most environmentally friendly way possible – by coastal shipping,' said Mr Greenwell. Ideas for improvement began in 1998 when it became apparent that existing facilities were being outstripped by demand. The quays were in a state of disrepair and average ship sizes were increasing. It took a year of design then several more to make way for an environmental assessment, a public inquiry and a harbour revision order before work started. 'By the time we came to digging the first sod, I actually felt like actually building it just had to be the easy bit,' said Mr Greenwell. He prised contractor Dean and Dyball for delivering the scheme within targets and staff for ensuring the port remained open during the works. He also said thanks to Shaldon residents who had to put up with pile driving noise. 'I also have to thank Associated British Ports. The £5 million represents a considerable investment for a port the size of Teignmouth. 'It clearly demonstrates the continued faith in the town and short sea ports in general.' Matt Jukes, ABP short sea ports director, said that the transit of freight around the coast rather than overland requires ports to be well equipped. 'This development gives Teignmouth a substantial boost. 'As short sea shipping takes lorries off the road, it is efficient, environmentally sound and rapidly growing in popularity, he said. Gunilla Lerenius, wife of ABP chief executive Bo Lerenius, officially unveiled the plaque. She said it was a pleasure to visit Teignmouth and an honour to be opening an extension that will ensure the future of Teignmouth's port. The work included straightening walls, deepening berths and building a new 3,000 square metre transit shed for agricultural imports. A new public slipway at Polly Steps was also included.