The project

The first extension project was considered in 1912.  Later on, another study was started in 1921. This new study was considered by M. Letrocquer, Minister of  Public Works. This last  project anticipated the possibility of the construction of more than 5 kms of quays with jetties which could be approached along 600 metres allowing the berth of transatlantic liners. The liners draught was about 14 metres. This new wharf would allow them to keep afloat.

Projects

In 1920 the Chamber of Commerce took on a program which would start in 1923. The first part of the work cost 23 million Francs and was taken up by the Hersent company from 1922 to 1927. This was first of all the building of a breakwater in the Mielles harbour to the East of the big jetty. The building of the Flamand breakwater, to the East of the Mielles cove, gave a passage of 500 metres in respect to the Hommet breakwater.

These works were regarded as insufficient. To meet to the needs of several shipping companies, the Chamber of Commerce , whose president was M. Quoniam, decided to transform the first jetty into a deep water quay and this started the immediate study for the construction of the second jetty.  

Models of the final project.

This transformation was given to  Christiani & Nielsen on the 1st October 1927. The works started in February 1928 and cost 50 million Francs.

The two projects were therefore the deep water quay for the direct docking of the liners and the new harbour terminal on the first jetty. These complimented each other.

Plan of the East side of the bell tower.

This modern harbour terminal was built following the designs of the Highways Department engineers. The erection plans were the work of the architect M. Levavasseur. This new accomplishment used improved specialised equipment .

The terminal was connected by a rail track to Paris. Passengers had therefore the possibility to get to the capital in 5 hours.