Following significant investment, the inshore fishing marina at Shoreham Port in the UK has reopened to offer facilities for fishers with vessels up to 15 metres in length.
The project was supported through the second round of the UK Seafood Fund: Infrastructure Scheme, a collaboration between the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Marine Management Organisation (MMO). The scheme provided grants to projects aimed at strengthening the UK seafood supply chain.
With a grant of £1.2 million (US$1.5 million), the renovation has doubled the previous 25 berths and the overall quay space was increased by 170 per cent. Upgraded pontoons now better accommodate modern catamaran-style fishing vessels, and new davit cranes have been installed.
The port is also promoting responsible gear management through enhanced storage facilities and participation in the Sussex Net Regeneration Scheme, which recycles end-of-life fishing gear for commercial fishers at Shoreham Port.
Each berth now offers shore power and freshwater access, whilst welfare facilities have also been significantly improved.
Originally in use since the 1950s and formerly known as Nicolson's Marina, the facility has been renamed Fishersgate Marina to reflect the rich fishing heritage of the local area.