Southampton port operator withdraws Dibden Bay expansion plans

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 17 Oct, 10:32 · Archive

Associated British Ports has withdrawn plans for a vehicle terminal at Dibden Bay.

Associated British Ports (ABP) has withdrawn its Solent Gateway 2 project from the Planning Inspectorate's development consent process. The proposed Dibden Bay development would have included a two-berth jetty for roll-on, roll-off vehicle cargo, terminal space and a new access road connecting to the A326. The scheme also included possible changes to existing rail facilities, environmental improvements and better public access between Hythe and Marchwood.

ABP said the withdrawal reflects strong customer demand, which has created opportunities that require a faster response than the current development timeline allowed. The firm will instead focus on unlocking additional space at existing Southampton and Solent Gateway sites at Marchwood to meet near-term capacity needs. An ABP spokesperson said it remained committed to maintaining Southampton's position as a leading UK and European port.

Hythe and Dibden Parish Council chairman Mark Clark described the withdrawal as a "significant development" for local communities but said it would be "premature" to assume it marked the end of proposals for Dibden Bay. The parish council said it would consider the implications and whether further representations should be made to Hampshire County Council and the New Forest National Park Authority.

How it is being reported

• Port operator withdraws vehicle terminal plansAssociated British Ports focuses on creating more space at existing sites in Southampton.BBC Hampshire · 17 Oct, 10:13
• Port expansion plans withdrawn as operator looks to use other space - for nowThe operator of Southampton's port has withdrawn its planning bid for a vehicle terminal at Dibden Bay as it races to meet demand for spaceSouthern Daily Echo · 16 Oct, 17:09

In this story: Associated British Ports · Southampton · Dibden Bay · Solent Gateway · Hythe and Dibden Parish Council · Hampshire County Council

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