Booming trade at Port of Southampton, the UK’s number one port for exports, has prompted the port's operator to acquire Eling Wharf, a 41-acre site close to the port.
As well as securing local employment, the acquisition of the land will support British businesses.
The UK's number one export port handles US$ 57 billion (£40 billion) of exports every year, including 90% destined for countries outside the EU.
Its critical role has been cemented by more than $400 million (£280 million) of investment over the past five years, including more than $71 million (£50 million) in brand new state-of-the-art vehicle export facilities.
Alastair Welch, ABP Southampton Director, said: “Our investment is designed to enhance facilities available to British businesses and exporters looking to grow trade in international markets.
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“We are working hard to ensure the Port continues to deliver the best possible service for our customers, maintaining its position as the nation's gateway to the world.”
The port is home to the UK's second largest container terminal and each year handles around one million containers.
It also provides British manufacturers with essential access to international markets, handling some $107 billion (£75 billion) in trade.
In 2017 the port welcomed the largest vessels in the world and with more than one million containers handled by the port.
