Naalakkersuisut has entered into a contract with the consulting company Rambøll for a needs analysis that will form the basis for future decisions about a possible expansion of the port in Ittoqqortoormiit.
Naalakkersuisut has taken the next step in the work on a possible port expansion in Ittoqqortoormiit. A contract has been entered into with the consulting company Rambøll, which will prepare a needs analysis that will create a solid decision-making basis for future investments in port infrastructure in East Greenland.
Naalakkersuisoq for infrastructure, housing, outer districts and preparedness, Iddimanngiiu Jensen Bianco (IA), sees the conclusion of the contract as an important milestone.
– The citizens of Ittoqqortoormiit have long demanded better port conditions. With the contract with Rambøll, we are now taking an important step from wishes and visions to concrete planning. The needs analysis must ensure that we make the right decisions on an informed basis, so that a future port solution is adapted to the actual needs of the city and the region, she says.
Analysis must uncover needs and opportunities
The needs analysis must, among other things, examine the port’s future functions, capacity needs and possible solution models. The work includes collection of existing data, dialogue with relevant stakeholders and assessment of various development scenarios.
The analysis will, among other things, shed light on matters such as security of supply, business development, fishing, preparedness, passenger transport and accessibility, Naalakkersuisut states in a press release.
As part of the process, Rambøll will involve a number of key players, including local citizens and fishermen, Kommuneqarfik Sermersooq, Royal Arctic Line, Royal Greenland, Air Greenland, KNI and the Norwegian Armed Forces. The purpose is to ensure that local experiences and needs become an integral part of the decision-making basis.
Must form the basis for future investments
According to Iddimanngiiu Jensen Bianco, it is crucial that the analysis creates a clear picture of how a future port can best support development in the local community.
– Ittoqqortoormiit is one of Greenland’s most isolated communities, and good transport and supply options are crucial for both settlement, business development and quality of life. It is therefore important that we work thoroughly and professionally to uncover the needs, so that we can create the best possible basis for future investments.
Rambøll expects to complete the analysis during the summer of 2026 and deliver a comprehensive report in time for Naalakkersuisoq to present it to Inatsisartut during the autumn meeting. The report must include, among other things, a need, capacity and function analysis as well as an assessment of various overall solution principles for a future port.
– The conclusion of the contract means that there is now concrete progress in the matter of port development in Ittoqqortoormiit. Naalakkersuisut looks forward to receiving the results of the analysis and to further dialogue on how we can best strengthen the infrastructure and development opportunities in the area, concludes Naalakkersuisoq Iddimanngiiu Jensen Bianco.
