Poole Harbour publishes Master Plan

The Master Plan sets out a number of future projects including a new Poole Harbour Marine Centre which will extend from the existing Poole Quay Boat Haven.

The new Marine Centre will host a major marina for all sizes of yachts, facilities for major marine events, a Poole Harbour Awareness Centre and a number of historic vessels. Additionally, the centre will also include a public walkway with viewing platforms, providing new vistas over the harbour.

In order to fund the new Master Plan, PHC will use the revenue generated from harbour fees and says that it will support the local economy through the creation of around 300 permenant jobs.

Jim Stewart, chief executive, Poole Harbour Commissioners, told Maritime Journal: The Master Plan includes port projects such as a new 9m multipurpose quay which will accommodate different types of vessels, including cruise ships and liner vessels. Additionally, the Plan provides for deepening of existing quays to accommodate a wide range of bulk and liner vessels.”

PHC launched the first proposed drawing at the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show last week which detailed the location of the proposed marina and surrounding facilities.

Mr Stewart added: “The Environmental Impact Assessment is well advanced and we will be submitting an application to the Marine Management Organisation after Easter 2013. We hope a speedy decision will be made in order for us to commence construction in 2014.”

The UK Trust Port handles approximately 1.25 million tonnes of cargo per year and sees more than 5,000 commercial shipping movements annually within the harbour.