The SLPA is trying to get more space inside the harbour for its cargo operations with volumes increasingly steadily in recent months and existing facilities nearing saturation.
Port officials said the SLPA also needs to clear the port to make space available for work on the new deep-draft harbour being built next to the existing port.
Reducing the number of people entering the port has the added benefit of improving security at the port, which is known to be a target of Tamil Tiger rebels, they said.
The SLPA will build its own head office building outside Colombo port to house all its offices in one location, its chairman Priyath Wickrama said.
He said this would cut down congestion inside the port by reducing the number of people entering it as well as make it more convenient for customers.
"Now port customers have to go to 18 places in order to get clearances," Wickrema said.
"Also, the SLPA's own administration offices are scattered all over the port. So we plan to have a hea