WATERFORD's business community members appeared pleased when presented with ambitious container plans for the port south of Dublin, reported the Waterford News & Star.

At the Chamber's Business After Hours event, Waterford Chamber President Niall Harrington welcomed the attendees and discussed the potential impact of the port's expansion on the local economy.

"Waterford Port is progressing with the expansion and development of the port and port-related activity. The initial expansion will require US$18.21 million of investment that will allow for Port activity growth," said Mr Harington.

"Waterford Chamber sees the business potential of the Port of Waterford, whereby offshore wind production in the Celtic Seas could transform the port into the equivalent of what Aberdeen is to North Sea.