New business group aims to sustain Solent as 'coastal powerhouse'

NEW FOREST companies could get a boost from a new regional group, Maritime UK Solent, aiming to sustain the Solent’s marine industry as a “coastal powerhouse”.

Local firms based in areas such as Lymington and Hythe could benefit from Maritime UK Solent, which is to be launched in September by business group the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The initiative will kick off later this year during London International Shipping Week with the aim of promoting the region’s skills and capacity, and helping coordinate activity and share knowledge.

Solent LEP business director Kevin George, chair of ferry operator Red Funnel, said: “[The Solent’s] geography, heritage and the important part it plays in maritime innovation are all things that we are incredibly proud of and want to champion.

“We are delighted to announce the launch of the Maritime UK Solent hub, which will play a vital role in further solidifying the Solent as the UK’s coastal powerhouse.”

More information will be available online in the coming weeks at www.solentlep.org.uk or by emailing MUKSolent@solentlep.org.uk.