18th October 2006
Marina Research Study for the Port of Dover, Kent, UK
Dover Harbour Board have appointed Marina Projects Ltd to complete a Research Study into the marina business and associated marine leisure opportunities within the Port of Dover. To accommodate increasing ferry activity re-development of the Western Docks is necessary to create four new Ro-Ro ferry berths.
The ferry capacity issue was identified in the port’s 30-year master plan which was published earlier this year. The Western Docks Ferry Terminal development requires the marina’s Tidal Basin and Granville Dock to be reclaimed and as a consequence a new marina will be created. The future of the third berthing area in Wellington Dock is still under review.
Marina Projects Ltd study work is intended to inform Dover Harbour Board’s commercial planning of the new marina with the aim of optimising the marina ‘profile’ for the future. The Board has identified an opportunity to create a new marina that builds upon its success to date and also allows opportunities for further development of the leisure boating business in a strategically important location.
The brief and study objectives require the following areas to be addressed.
- Site appraisal and review of current business, including detailed site analysis and consultation with stakeholders. Considered understanding of existing customer base and aspirations for the future.
- Market review and analysis of existing marina moorings and wider market activity and trends; identification of core business and future opportunities.
- Development of marina profile for the immediate and long-term including berth number and size/mix. Together with recommendations for associated marine activities or business centres that are necessary to support the marina opportunity.
- Development of high level business plan such that Dover Harbour Board can make informed decisions in the overall port development plan.
- Completion of regular meetings to inform the client of progress and findings and to enable continued focus on objectives.
- Production of report encapsulating study findings and recommendations.
“We are delighted to be working with a ‘blue chip’ company such as Dover Harbour Board where exciting times lay ahead for the Port. The expertise and value that Marina Projects can bring to the Port’s master planning has clearly been recognised.” commented Marina Projects Director, Mike Ward.
Marina Projects study work is due to be completed by the end of the year.