A Dorset port is expanding its capacity for cruise ships following the biggest investment in its history.
Portland Port, a privately-owned commercial site, has secured an eight-figure finance package to help to rebuild one of its six deep-water berths and allow it to receive 350m ocean liners.
Exact figures for the funding boost, which was provided by HSBC bank, were not provided.
Bill Reeves, chief executive at Portland Port, said: “Establishing this new deep-water berth is essential to the port’s continued growth. This funded expansion will provide significantly increased capacity at the port and allow us to welcome some of the world’s largest cruise liners.
“It will also enable us to support the continued expansion of the port’s bulk cargo trades. We’re excited to welcome partners new and old following the launch of the new facility.”
Acquired from the Royal Navy in 1996, Portland Port - situated on the Isle of Portland, south of Weymouth - has since developed into a commercial port that handles cruise ships, as well as dry and liquid bulk cargo. It maintains a strong relationship with the Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary.
Global cruise lines utilising the port include Princess Cruises, Disney, TUI, and Saga.
Gareth Evans, area director for Hampshire and Dorset corporate banking at HSBC UK, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the expansion of Portland Port.
“The organisation is set for an exciting period of growth and we look forward to seeing its continued development, as well as the wider economic benefits this will bring to the region.”
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