At the moment, the only link is via the existing lock system which was designed primarily for naval submarines and surface ships built at the BAE Systems manufacturing facility. This lock is considered largely unsuitable for leisure craft and the new link will deliver easier, quicker access to and from the marina.

The cruise liner terminal will provide berthing, ship to shore access and shelter for cruise ships operating in the Irish Sea. The terminal will include a berth created by building a new quay structure between two existing monolith dolphins. The dolphins are located next to an existing deepwater pocket, making this an ideal location for the new berth.

A major consideration throughout the project will be various environmental issues. During stakeholder consultation, English Nature highlighted potential indirect effects on designated habitats, including cSAC (Candidate Special Area of Conservation), SPA (Special Protection Area) and Ramsar. These will be explored further through EIAs.