ABP Southampton expansion makes progress
ABP Port of Southampton’s £150m expansion project is well underway, with dredging set to begin in January 2014.
The 40km channel linking the port to the English Channel will be deepened to provide access for the deepest and largest vessels, including the new 18,000 teu container vessels that are currently coming into service.
The main navigation channel used by commercial shipping will also be deepened from a current minimum depth of 12.6m, at various points along its length to improve flexibility and access to all port users.
Ports and Shipping Minister Stephen Hammond, who recently visited the port, said: “It is fantastic to see the investment going in to the port. The expanded terminal will generate growth and jobs for the area and ensures that Southampton, and the UK, can continue to compete on the global maritime stage.”
During his visit, Mr Hammond opened the £7m Orient Vehicle Terminal, the fifth handling terminal to be built in Southampton.
Doug Morrison, director, Port of Southampton, added: “The scale of our investment in Southampton should leave no one in any doubt as to our confidence in its future.”
The new quay, known as SCT5, will open early next year.
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