Superyacht opportunities and marine review for Woolston Riverside, UK
Scheme description
Woolston Riverside is a major urban and waterfront regeneration project located on the site of the former Vosper Thornycroft shipbuilding yard on the banks of the River Itchen in Southampton. A key objective of SEEDA and EP has been the retention of a significant element of the site for marine related commercial activity.
Role of Marina Projects
Commissioned by SEEDA and EP to undertake a specific review of the marine commercial opportunities. The objective being to establish the most appropriate uses for the designated marine employment zone with particular reference to large boat production and superyacht refit, repair and servicing.
As part of the study programme Marina Projects Ltd undertook a detailed study of the superyacht market both within Europe and Internationally to assess, the growth of the worldwide superyacht fleet, trends linked to economic cycles, established routes and hubs, repair and refit activity/markets, legislative impacts supply chains. Taking account of market factors our report made clear recommendations on the future uses of the site and the opportunities for establishing sustainable marine related employment and activity.
Our vision for the marine employment zone has been fully embraced by SEEDA and our scope of works has been extended. We are working in association with the lead Architect, providing input into the masterplan to bring forward a comprehensive mixed use development proposal to meet the Government’s objectives.
In addition and as a follow on from our original commission Marina Projects Ltd has also been retained to provide further contribution to the development of the Woolston Riverside scheme. This includes:
- Design of berthing arrangements to support a major production yacht yard and superyacht facility.
- Advice on the Planning and consenting process for the marine works.
- Negotiation with the Port Authority, on behalf of SEEDA, for rights to introduce berthing alongside the main commercial shipping navigation channels.
- Production of marketing material to promote the vision and secure expressions of interest from the marine and superyacht industries, both nationally and internationally.