Environmental permit application submitted for the Umeå Fairway Project
News 2026-02-03
The Umeå Fairway Project is a joint development initiative between Umeå Hamn AB and the Swedish Maritime Administration, aimed at increasing the fairway’s capacity and improving safety.
The project involves two operators, each submitting a separate environmental permit application. The applications have been developed in parallel and in close collaboration to enable a coordinated and efficient implementation. The aim is to establish a solid foundation for an effective and well-coordinated implementation phase.
“By coordinating the application documents and planning, we are laying the groundwork for efficient implementation and a modern fairway that meets future requirements for maritime safety and accessibility,” says Melica Cliffoord, Project Manager at the Swedish Maritime Administration.
Deepening and widening the fairway
The Swedish Maritime Administration’s planned measures include deepening and widening the fairway by dredging approximately 165,000 cubic metres of material along the fairway routes. To make the upgraded fairway fully operational, new navigational aids will also need to be installed, and existing aids will need to be adapted.
Supporting the development of the port and the region
The Port of Umeå is undergoing a period of expansion, with significant investments aimed at accommodating increasing freight volumes driven by economic growth across the Nordic region.
Existing customers, including companies in the forestry industry, are planning substantial production increases at their facilities, while other operators continue to transport stable volumes through the port. New businesses are also expected to contribute additional cargo volumes in both the near and longer term, further supporting the port’s expansion plans.
“An upgraded fairway is essential for the port’s continued development and for the region’s business community. It will enable us to accommodate larger vessels and provide more efficient and sustainable transport solutions,” says Kim Andersson-Berlin, Project Manager at Umeå Hamn AB.
Positive impacts
Once completed, the project is expected to deliver significant benefits, including improved maritime safety, greater accessibility and better conditions for more resource-efficient transport.
The upgraded fairway will further strengthen the Port of Umeå’s role as a key transport and logistics hub for businesses in the region.
For more information about the project's progress and upcoming activities, visit the Umeå Fairway Project page.
Environmental permit application and accompanying Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).