Work has started on the construction of a 100,000ft2 warehouse for Finnforest at the Port of Tilbury.

The building, costing the port more than £1m and due for completion in April 2003, will increase Finnforest’s covered space at Tilbury to nearly half of its total site there.

It will allow the company to bring in greater volumes of timber to grow its existing business in the building systems, DIY, merchanting and industrial sectors.

Logistics director Mark Tonge said: “The Port of Tilbury is a key import and distribution point for our UK activities. Tilbury’s geographical location is very well suited to our needs and we have a long commitment as well as a strong relationship with the port.”

&#8220The Port of Tilbury is a key import and distribution point for our UK activities”

Finnforest logistics director Mark Tonge

Perry Glading, the port’s managing director, said Finnforest’s decision to expand its business was a further vote of confidence in Tilbury.

Finnforest has been developing its business at the port since 1994.