A fifth cruise terminal is to be built at Southampton port as part of a multi-million pound government investment package for the region.
The new terminal will deliver an “iconic wave-inspired building” with solar generation and shore power facilities “ensuring a world leading zero-emissions facility for cruise vessels in port”.
The development is part of a £15.9 million investment in projects as part of the government’s ‘Get Building Fund’ being allocated via the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).
Associated British Ports regional director Alastair Welch said: “We are pleased to hear of the announcement by MHCLG [Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government] confirming the government’s continued support for the cruise sector, which is crucial to our economy.
“We look forward to confirming the details linked to this announcement to ensure we are able to support the resumption and future growth of cruise as soon as possible.”
Solent LEP chief executive Anne-Marie Mountifield said: “This is a timely and unparalleled opportunity to restart the Solent’s visitor economy which has been so deeply impacted in 2020.
“The cruise industry is a lynchpin of our national visitor economy with the Solent’s share of activity standing at 86%.
“That is why it is critical for the region that we support it to be competitive on a global stage, in order that the Solent remains a destination of choice in coming years.
“Investment in our world-leading cruise industry will not only benefit the sector, but also represents a strong backing for our local supply chains, transport links, retail and hospitality businesses that rely on the customer base generated by activity at the port.
“Alongside this, we have an unprecedented opportunity to bring forward a greener recovery for the sector, reducing emissions at sea, shore and across the supporting logistics and infrastructure network.”