A long awaited revival of Dover Harbour is getting under way with an invitation from Dover Harbour Board for bids for a £120M framework agreement that will transform the Western Dock with a new terminal and a possible marina.
Three firms will be selected to work under the framework deal, with construction work to get under way in January 2015. The first package of work will be a £20M land reclamation project at the existing Hoverport Apron to create a footprint for the new cargo terminal with a new Ripening shed.
Early work will also include relocation of marina facilities, construction of access routes and paved areas to accommodate commercial, retail and port services. The three firms selected to join the framework will bid for additional work packages.
These will include constructing a bascule bridge over a new navigable channel to be created to connect the outer harbour with Wellington Docks. The existing Prince of Wales Pier will be strengthened and extended and its height reduced. A new curved inner quay wall will be built.
A new marina pier will be built and fitted out, including new pontoons. Other land reclamation works will be carried out around the Wick Channel to create land for possible expansion of a temperature controlled store.
The Union Street approach to the docks will be widened and the current Wellington Road access road will be closed permanently. An existing boatyard will be relocated to a new yard.
Dover Harbour Board has described the project as a potential ‘game changer’ for the port and the town of Dover. It is expected to create 600 new logistics jobs as well as safeguard another 140 by creating the new cargo terminal. The Board says the scheme will revive the western docks, protect long term port capacity and transform the waterfront with creation of the new marina.
Contractors have until 18 August to register interest with the Board.
