Portsmouth's New Port Officially Opened
13 May 2011, 08:42 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50
Portsmouth's new international ferry and cruise terminal will be officially opened today (13th May) by Business Secretary Vince Cable.
The new building is part of a £16.5 million investment in new passenger facilities at the south coast port.
As well as being a striking glass and steel construction, the light and spacious terminal is designed to be one of the most environmentally friendly public buildings in the UK, even using sea water to flush the toilets.
The facility has been in operation for about 6 weeks and features new restaurants and shops. Dr Cable will unveil a plaque in the building.
He said: “I am pleased to be opening the new terminal. The ferry and cruise ship industries make a major contribution to the economy of the entire country. This is a significant investment in new facilities at Portsmouth that will bring a wider benefit elsewhere in the UK through tourism and business.”
Portsmouth South MP Mike Hancock, said: "Portsmouth International Port makes a significant contribution to the local economy and this investment in the new terminal is key to it maintaining its position as a successful and thriving Port. This is the fulfilment of the commitment I gave on behalf of the City Council that we will provide the best terminal with great facilities. I am delighted that we have lived up to those commitments."
The terminal, which has taken 14 months to build, replaces the old building constructed 35 years ago.
