The port of Southampton has started a major project to upgrade 430 metres of quayside ahead of work on its new cruise terminal.
More than 400 metres of quayside – the length of four football pitches – is being reinforced and technology for ‘Shore Power’ connectivity is being added for cruise operations.
The port said the work is part of its long-term investment plan to “future-proof” infrastructure for customers and port partners.
Alastair Welch, director of ABP Southampton, said: “We’re excited to be rebuilding the quayside for Ro-Ro operations and the future of cruise. This infrastructure upgrade is a significant one and…takes us a crucial step closer to the opening of our fifth cruise terminal.
“This investment into the long-term future of cruise will strengthen the Port of Southampton’s position as Europe’s leading cruise turn-around port and the UK’s number one automotive port.”
Southampton is the busiest cruise port in the UK, welcoming two million passengers each year before the pandemic.