Associated British Ports marked a significant milestone as it commenced the first phase of development for the ABP Solent Gateway at the Port of Marchwood. Sir Julian Lewis, MP for New Forest East, led the groundbreaking ceremony for the 21-acre site, joined by representatives from Hampshire County Council, including Leader Cllr Rob Humby, New Forest District Council, the Solent Freeport, and various UK Government departments.

With an initial investment of £25 million, the development aims to enhance both landside and marine facilities, strengthening the Solent’s position as a prominent trade gateway and bolstering the port’s capacity to support Ministry of Defence operations.

Sir Julian Lewis MP, local MP for Marchwood, (centre), breaks ground at the ABP Solent Gateway site, accompanied by Alastair Welch, ABP’s regional director for Southampton (left) and Richard Parkinson, director of Marchwood Port (right)

The on-site development includes the creation of an ecological buffer along the port boundary to improve aesthetics for local residential areas and foster wildlife habitats. Additionally, plans for pedestrian and cycle access routes linking the port to Marchwood village are underway, alongside improvements to vehicle management to alleviate congestion outside the port premises. The project also encompasses the creation of over 60 acres of biodiversity habitat off-site.

Richard Parkinson, director of Marchwood Port, emphasised the pivotal role of this investment in unlocking the full potential of the Port of Marchwood, benefiting both its commercial activities and its support for the armed forces. The development underwent thorough planning approval processes and incorporates significant features to benefit the local community and the environment.

Alastair Welch, ABP’s regional director for its Solent activities, highlighted the importance of enhancing connectivity for the UK economy, citing the Solent’s status as a primary gateway for deep-sea trade.

Sir Julian Lewis hailed the development as a transformative step for ABP Solent Gateway, underlining its historical significance as an embarkation point for D-Day and its current role as the UK Armed Forces’ sea mounting centre.

James Hassett, chief executive officer of Solent Freeports, emphasised Solent Freeport’s commitment to leveraging regional prosperity and fostering sustainable businesses. Marchwood represents one of the inaugural sites within the Solent Freeport, aligning with the UK Government’s initiative to drive investment and stimulate economic growth in coastal communities.

For more information visit www.abports.co.uk