Waterfront

Southampton is a coastal city; its maritime history is reflected within both its culture and economy. The city has one of the UK’s most important ports which is used to supply goods to the entire country. It is also the cruise capital of the UK and sees over 400 cruise ships and thousands of visitors every year. The city’s relationship with both its port and the water is key to its current and future economic success, safeguarding the port therefore remains a top priority for the Council.   

 With that in mind, the Council also recognises there are a range of ways in which the benefits of Southampton’s nature as a waterfront city can be fully maximised. Currently, waterfront accessibility is fairly limited for residents and visitors alike, particularly in the west of the city. Upgrading the quality and accessibility of the city's waterfront public realm where this is possible will create an improved sense of place in Southampton which will not only better reflect its maritime identity but help it to become a distinctive waterfront experience.