Long-awaited proposals to complete the redevelopment of Newhaven Marina have been given the go-ahead by Lewes planners.
The plans allow for the provision of a new 3,500m² commercial building, a 50-unit aparthotel, 249 residential apartments and 141 retirement apartments.
The marina layout will be reconfigured to provide 300 berths, increased dry stack provision and a new riverside walkway. There will also be a new jetty for visiting yachts and commercial vessels. The marina is managed by Gosport-based Marina Projects Ltd, which was also involved in the redevelopment plan.
There was some local opposition to the project, due mainly to the limited capacity of the road network serving the marina, but the concerns were not deemed critical compared with the overall benefits that the redevelopment is expected to bring.
The marina has been through several different ownerships in its time. It offers easy access to the English Channel, being located just a quarter of a mile from the Newhaven harbour entrance. The marina site offers safe shelter and is accessible in all weathers and tides.
Currently the marina provides 285 berths for craft from 6m-16m (20ft-51ft). All moorings have electricity and water, and a fuel pontoon lies 150m north of the marina entrance. The marina complex includes a well-stocked chandlery, a food and provisions store, and washrooms. Onsite services include a 12-tonne hoist and boat storage, drying piles and grid, slipway launching, and ample free parking.
