A new era for Portsmouth Port as bigger & better carbon neutral terminal welcomes first passengers

Visitors from Saga’s Spirit of Discovery cruise ship were the first to experience the new carbon neutral terminal extension at Portsmouth International Port last weekend.

It’s the first of its kind in the UK to use sea water for heating and cooling the building, which – thanks also to wind and solar installations – will soon generate more energy than it consumes.

It all comes as part of the £11.25 million in Levelling Up funding secured by the port to help transform Portsmouth’s visitor economy.

Mike Sellers, Director of Portsmouth International Port, said: “I’d like to thank everyone involved for their determination to have this ready for our first call from Saga this weekend.

“The terminal transformation follows a number of significant infrastructure projects to position Portsmouth as not only one of the UK’s leading ports, but a global one too.

“Our Masterplan has focused efforts towards a sustainable future that aims to be the first carbon neutral port by 2030.

“After 18 months we now boast an inspiring terminal, ready to handle a forecast increase in trade and offer a second departure gate for ferry passengers.”

That forecast points to Portsmouth Port welcoming more than 100 vessels in 2024, bringing an additional 250,000 ferry and cruise visitors every year.

With a major berth extension now complete, the port is now able to handle ships up to 300m in length.

The new and improved terminal also features a sky garden for people to watch the goings-on across the port, as well as an exclusive lounge area.

It reinforces the city’s niche as a destination for small-to-medium-sized boutique and luxury expeditions – like the Spirit of Discovery, which carries just under 1000 passengers.

Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson added: “Portsmouth lends itself ideally as a cruise port, with wonderful heritage assets and a spectacular waterfront for arrivals and departures.

“This new terminal extension is hoped to kickstart further investment in the city, from hotel capacity to an increase in tourism spending.

“The port is integral to Portsmouth and supports our ambitions to become a leading marine and maritime city, providing opportunities for residents and high-quality experiences for visitors.”

Among the other planned developments in the £20 million bid are a new lido and what would become the UK’s longest urban park, Linear Park, in the north of the city.

• portsmouth-port.co.uk