Work to set sail for £2m Buckler's Hard redevelopment

WORK is set to begin on the £2m redevelopment of Buckler’s Hard yacht harbour to extend the Beaulieu River marina and improve its facilities.

The revamp will take place during the off-season over the next two winters, with the first phase starting in October this year lasting until March 2020 and the second phase beginning in autumn next year.

The redevelopment is expected to be completed by March 2021 and will provide an extra 66 berths and additional large moorings, taking the total number up to 264.

The new plans, which have been approved by the Marine Management Organisation and New Forest National Park Authority, are hoped to secure the marina’s future while continuing to preserve its unique character. Since its opening in 1971 the yacht harbour has remained largely unaltered except for one extension.

Specialist marina consultancy Marina Projects, based in Gosport, has been appointed to help oversee the project, and the work will be carried out by Fareham-based Walcon Marine.

Beaulieu Enterprises managing director Russell Bowman said: “We are looking forward to starting work on this exciting redevelopment which will offer greater choice and accessibility in the future, while keeping a similar look and feel to the existing yacht harbour.

“We recognise that the Beaulieu River is a very special place and are committed to undertaking the project in a sensitive and sustainable way. Its unique character remains of paramount importance to us.”

As work gets under way this winter, Harbour Master Wendy Stowe and her team will offer limited availability for visiting yachtsmen in the marina, while continuing to provide river-swinging moorings.

For more customer details visit www.beaulieuriver.co.uk, email harbour.office@beaulieu.co.uk or call 01590 616200.