Dover Harbour Board is investing over £250,000 in expansion of its marina in Wellington Dock in a demonstration of its commitment to leisure boating.
Sixteen pontoon finger berths are being renewed and 14 new berths provided. A stretch of quayside pontoon is also being extended by 50 metres to accommodate large sailing ships and a pedestrian access to the berths is being improved.
"There is a trend towards larger yachts and motor boats coming into the marina, both from residents and visitors, and this investment programme will satisfy this demand," said Kate O'Hara, the port's Head of Commercial & Marketing.
The investment will take the number of berths at the marina beyond 400. Last year the number of resident berth-holders topped 300 for the first time.
Visitors to Dover Marina come from France, Belgium, Holland, Germany and Scandinavia as well as Britain. Dover Marina is popular because it offers the closest crossing point to Continental Europe and there is a wealth of tourist attractions in the area.
The marina's facilities and operations received the highest rating of five Gold Anchors following an inspection under the Yacht Harbour Association's code of practice in October. This was an increase of one gold anchor from its previous rating.
