£21million Plans for Poole Harbour

22 July 2010, 12:05 | Updated: 22 July 2010, 13:08

£21million plans to transform Poole Harbour has been revealed.

Poole Harbour Commissioners are looking at creating berths for super yachts and cruise ships.

They've also submitted planning permission for a mini-marina to be built before the 2012 Olympics.

Chief executive Jim Stewart has told HEART:

"The government has instructed all major ports to draw up 30 year port master plans. We're now starting a major consultation exercise with Poole Harbour stakeholders and the general public so we can fully understand their views on the various projects that are being considered."

It includes:

- An £800,000, 55-berth mini-marina.

- A £100,000 berth for 200m cruise ships

- Providing developer 'Eneco' with a possible base for the proposed £1billion offshore wind farm.
(The company are looking for a 10-acre site to lease for 50 years).

- A £20m, 800-berth marina at Hamworthy, beyond Poole Yacht Club.

Mr Stewart added:

“We've got to ensure Poole Harbour Commissioners remains financially viable for the future.

"Certainly there is no intention of running down traditional port activities. This is an additional revenue stream which will help us to fulfil all the other tasks we have in the harbour."