Solent Waterfront Strategy Update
Work on the Solent Waterfront Strategy commissioned by SEEDA continues to make good progress towards identifying and analysing the economic importance of the marine industry to the Solent area.
In a preliminary note of emerging issues, the consultants carrying out the study have marked up a number of key points. The positive news is that the Solent is home to several world leaders. The success of three core businesses is seen as vital for the future: the commercial Port of Southampton; the Defence activities centred on the naval Port of Portsmouth and the marine leisure business.
Discussions with key stakeholders have seen many lament what they see as a national lack of understanding of the importance of maritime trade and marine industries. Also to the fore is the perception of a distinct lack of waterfront locations suitable for expanding marine industries. High land and rental values, often fuelled by the hope of consent for prestigious waterside housing, are a particular concern. It appears that long-standing national planning policies to encourage regeneration of brownfield sites within urban areas may have unintentionally destroyed the supply of affordable land for marine industries. Climate change and environmental designations are seen as areas for detailed attention.
The consultants are now conducting a business survey and face-to-face interviews with local marine businesses to gather important economic, empirical data and information to assist in quantifying the overall economic value of the marine sector to the local area. A further stakeholder workshop has also been organised for 5th July in Portsmouth, looking at the future trends likely to affect the marine industry in relation to the commercial port and shipping sector, the leisure and recreational sector and consent, legislation and land use issues.
The study is expected to be completed by mid August.
If you would like to find out more contact Stephen Sharp by emailing stephen@marinesoutheast.co.uk or log on to http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk/ongoing_projects where you can find the latest information on this and other projects.
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