Waterside Partnership launch reveals Associated British Ports, ExxonMobil, Solent Gateway, Fawley Waterside, Barker Mill Estates and Solent Freeport are teaming up to bring new development to the area

A GROUP consisting of landowners and local businesses has formed to create a partnership that will bring new development to the Waterside.

The group – made up of representatives from Associated British Ports, ExxonMobil, Solent Gateway, Fawley Waterside, Barker Mill Estates and Solent Freeport – says it will draw on its “knowledge and experience… to deliver development that contributes to a better future for everyone”.

Its aim is “to work together to bring benefits to everyone in the Waterside area, both through our current operations and appropriate future development, with new opportunities and better spaces, looking to the future whilst nurturing and enhancing the unique and special environment”.

When pressed by the A&T on more specific detail, a spokesperson said members were keen to engage with local communities to help deliver their objectives. A recent public meeting at Marchwood village hall had provided an opportunity to introduce the partnership, with a second community event planned for later in the year to give an update on progress with “specific plans and proposals”.

A spokesperson added: “One area which has been highlighted for focus is around skills, training support and provision. The partnership is coordinating work already being undertaken in this area, inviting further collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure a cohesive approach.”

The Waterside Partnership website states it aims to deliver a wide range of homes in appropriate locations across the Waterside, with associated community infrastructure.

It also says it is working towards “fostering improved connectivity” and ensuring that the Waterside plays its part in the delivery of sustainable, social and green infrastructure.

It adds: “Through promoting active travel through walking, wheeling and cycling connections, to improving road and rail infrastructure, we are aiming to provide direct and quantifiable benefits for the local community through enhanced physical connectivity along and across the Waterside.

“We are also working towards improving digital connections through both 5G and technology, as well as improving access to and opportunities for education and training.”

Attending the meeting was Cllr David Harrison, who represents Totton and Marchwood on the county, district and town councils. He said: “In one sense, the meeting was a bit of a disappointment. There was no significant reveal or announcement by any of the speakers.

“It seemed to be mostly a case of the representatives from ABP, Solent Gateway, Fawley Waterside, Barker Mill Estates, Solent Freeport, Hampshire County Council, New Forest District Council, all providing a five minute update on where they fit into the partnership and confidently asserting what was largely a business orientated vision for the Waterside.

“There was nobody representing any of the environmental groups that I would think have an entirely different vision, say, apart from representatives from the New Forest National Park, who weren’t invited to speak.

“That said, I enjoyed a cup of tea and a cake with the chance to talk to a lot of different people who I don’t normally get to see. I learned a few things about plans for transport, future housing, [and] the latest on the A326.

“There was no further information provided about ABP’s plans for port development at Dibden Bay, except for the decades-long repeat warning that they are running out of space and need to keep expanding in order to compete on a global stage.”