Freeport funding unlocks infrastructure growth

Backed by government funding, the programme is targeting projects intended to remove barriers to development and create the foundations for long-term economic growth across the Solent region.

Brian Johnson, chair of Solent Freeport, said the programme was beginning to deliver tangible results.

“These projects demonstrate how Solent Freeport is turning investment into action,” he said.

“Our Seed Capital Programme is helping unlock development, strengthen critical infrastructure and create the conditions for businesses to invest, grow and create jobs across the region.”

One of the latest examples is Dunsbury Park in Havant, where £1.2 million of Seed Capital funding has been used to support enabling works for Units 500–502, including new footway and cycleway infrastructure. The investment has helped unlock commercial development at the site, which is already home to businesses including Inchcape, Percussion Play and Righton Blackburn.

The development has delivered around 7,000 square metres of commercial space and is expected to support approximately 200 jobs, while also improving active travel connections between the business park and surrounding communities.

Solent Freeport said the project illustrates how targeted infrastructure investment can accelerate commercial development and attract occupiers.

“We are already seeing businesses expand, jobs safeguarded and new opportunities created,” continued Johnson. “Importantly, these projects are not only supporting economic growth today, but they are also laying the foundations for the long-term success of the Solent region as the UK’s global gateway.”

Across the wider region, Seed Capital funding is also supporting projects including improvements to the A326 Waterside corridor, infrastructure works at Portsmouth International Port, development at Eastleigh’s Navigator Quarter, and freight and energy upgrades at Redbridge and Marchwood.