Hamburg Port Authority commences refurbishment of Salzgitter Quay
13 Jul 2026 11:00 Shipping News
The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) has commenced the refurbishment of Salzgitter Quay in Sandau Harbour. With an investment in the hundreds of millions of euros, the project ranks among the most significant infrastructure schemes in the Port of Hamburg. As part of a full replacement of the existing structure, approximately 830 metres of quay wall will be rebuilt, ensuring that the facility is equipped to meet the long-term requirements of modern port operations. Construction is scheduled for completion by October 2030.
Dr Melanie Leonhard, Senator for Economic Affairs, Labour and Innovation, said: “Hamburg’s quay infrastructure is indispensable to the German economy. Salzgitter Quay is a prime example of this. By investing in this infrastructure, we are safeguarding the supply chains of key industries throughout Germany.”
Friedrich Stuhrmann, Chief Commercial Officer at Hamburg Port Authority, said: “The refurbishment of Salzgitter Quay is a targeted investment in the performance and long-term competitiveness of the Port of Hamburg. The project demonstrates how complex infrastructure schemes can be delivered efficiently through close collaboration and innovative project delivery models – all while maintaining uninterrupted port operations.”
Ben Thurnwald, Managing Director of Hansaport Hafenbetriebsgesellschaft mbH, said: “Delivering such a complex replacement project while maintaining full operations is only possible through transparent and close communication with our customers. The foundation for its smooth execution lies in the outstanding flexibility and unwavering commitment of the entire Hansaport team. Thanks to this dedication, we are able to coordinate the construction works and our demanding cargo handling operations seamlessly on a day-to-day basis.”
Salzgitter Quay is operated by Hansaport Hafenbetriebsgesellschaft mbH as a key bulk cargo handling terminal. With a water depth of -17.00 metres (NHN), the quay features one of the deepest berths in the Port of Hamburg, making it particularly important for handling large oceangoing vessels.
The implementation of the project presents considerable challenges for all parties involved. Throughout the construction period, cargo handling operations must continue without interruption while berth availability is maintained. At the same time, extensive specialist civil engineering works are required, including unexploded ordnance clearance and measures to meet the requirements of the private flood protection system in the Dradenau polder. The construction of the load-bearing elements of the new quay wall will involve the use of heavy construction equipment that is rarely deployed in the Port of Hamburg. This requires particularly close coordination between the construction activities, ongoing cargo handling operations and navigational requirements. The greatest challenge is to synchronise all of these processes with sufficient precision to ensure the highest standards of safety while maintaining smooth construction progress and uninterrupted port operations at all times.
The project partners include the joint venture between HOCHTIEF Infrastructure GmbH and Aarsleff Spezialtiefbau GmbH, responsible for construction works; the joint venture between Fichtner Water & Transport and GRBV Ingenieure, responsible for planning and design; and WIWA Kampfmittelbergung, responsible for unexploded ordnance clearance.
Hamburg Port Authority
Since 2005, the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) has provided integrated, future-oriented port management, taking responsibility wherever efficiency, safety and economic performance are concerned within the Port of Hamburg. To meet the port’s growing demands, HPA develops intelligent and innovative solutions. It is responsible for the efficient, resource-conscious and sustainable planning and delivery of infrastructure projects and serves as the central point of contact for all matters relating to waterside and landside infrastructure, the safe and efficient movement of vessel traffic, port railway facilities, property management and the port’s economic framework. HPA also provides the necessary land and infrastructure, carries out all statutory port authority functions and delivers a wide range of port-related services. In addition, it markets its specialist port expertise and represents Hamburg’s port interests at both national and international level.
