Solent Gateway was formed in 2016 and holds the 35 year lease until 2051 to develop and operate the 83-hectare Marchwood Port on the River Test opposite the Port of Southampton. Solent Gateway is wholly owned by Associated British Ports.
Now designated as a Freeport Tax Site (and a Customs Site), Solent Gateway is developing the port to create 64 hectares of outstanding high quality, port-centric logistic space with excellent connectivity by sea, rail and road for commercial business, creating jobs and value for the local area in the process.
These plans will create much needed, additional port capacity capable of accommodating global vessels and a broad range of cargoes, supported by excellent storage and logistic space, thereby providing a valuable alternative to existing port facilities in the Solent.
This development of the optimum location Marchwood Port, which will increase the port’s capacity whilst being socially and environmentally aware, is in accordance with local and national policies.
ABP Solent Gateway is committed to working with stakeholders and the community to deliver a scheme that responds to national and regional needs whilst addressing potential local impacts.
Work is currently underway to develop 30 acres on-site for flexible open storage, additional hardstanding and enhanced security features. There will also be improved site access, an ecological buffer on the port boundary, biodiversity support, an enhanced cycle route and pedestrian access.
From a commercial perspective, Solent Gateway is able to offer unique opportunities to businesses looking for new import/export facilities and services, as well as those looking to establish new operations inside a freeport.
Solent Gateway presents an ideal opportunity supporting commercial activity, underpinned by both RoRo and LoLo shipping. There are two jetties with RoRo and LoLo capability, four linkspans and 32-tonne rail mounted cranes, with 11m depth and 235m length overall by 2025.
There is a dedicated rail connection direct to berth with 10k of rail sidings, dedicated locomotives and national rail connection. Solent Gateway is also just 10 minutes from the national motorway network.
Solent Gateway’s Port of Marchwood developments support those businesses seeking the facilitation of logistics hubs, business parks, storage, sea to rail, sea to road, automobile, project cargo, general cargo, dry bulk and break bulk.
Marchwood Port’s current commercial operations includes rail import and storage, container storage, automotive import/export and storage, project cargo import/export and storage and wind turbine blade shipments.
The Ministry of Defence uses the port for the transport of supplies and cargo. This development will better assist and support the MoD’s ongoing logistical operation and make more efficient use of the port in line with local and national policy.