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Preferred developer selected for Cowes Outer Harbour project

21 October 2010

The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) has today confirmed Sutton Harbour Holdings Plc as the preferred bidder in the process to identify a developer and operator for the new Outer Harbour development at East Cowes, on the Isle of Wight.

The development is a key part of the regeneration of East Cowes, which will provide the opportunity to improve the links between East Cowes and West Cowes and open up of the waterfront to enhance East Cowes’ status as a gateway, boosting tourism in the area.   The plans include a new outer breakwater and a marina of 300 berths with separate provision for visitors and events. The project is is a joint project between SEEDA, Cowes Harbour Commission and The Crown Estate.

Following the recent announcement that the Marine Management Organisation has issued all necessary consents in relation to the scheme, the selection is seen as a key decision in advance of the planning committee meeting by the Isle of Wight Council on 26th October 2010. 

The selection of Sutton Harbour Holdings as preferred bidder follows a competitive tender process involving three short-listed bidders.  The next stage will see detailed negotiation being undertaken with the aim of reaching agreement for works to begin in Spring 2011.

SEEDA’s Development Director, Peter Cusdin, said: "We are delighted to be able to select Sutton Harbour Holdings as our preferred developer for the project.  They have an excellent track record in delivering marine-related regeneration schemes, and are well versed in the importance of partnership working, which is key to bringing forward this important aspect of the regeneration of East Cowes. The development will mark an important step in the transformation of the area and support the growth of the local economy.”

Cowes Harbour Master, Stuart McIntosh commented: “This is a major milestone for this project that will finally make Cowes a truly sheltered and safe harbour. The Commissioners, the yachting and local business communities consider this development as essential to ensuring the long-term prosperity of the harbour and the local economy. I therefore hope that the next milestone, and final required consent, will be the planning committee granting approval of full planning consent next week.”

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