Following significant investment, Shoreham Ports inshore fishing marina has reopened this January, offering fantastic facilities for fishers with vessels up to 15m in length.
The landmark project was supported through the second round of the UK Seafood Fund: Infrastructure Scheme, a collaboration between Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and Marine Management Organisation (MMO). The scheme provided grants to projects aimed at strengthening the UK seafood supply chain, delivering social and economic benefits, and reducing the seafood industry’s environmental impact.
With a grant of £1.2 million, the renovation has doubled the previous 25 berths and increased the overall quay space by 170%. Upgraded pontoons now better accommodate modern catamaran-style fishing vessels, and new davit cranes have been installed. The Port is also promoting responsible gear management through enhanced storage facilities and participation in the Sussex Net Regeneration Scheme, which recycles end-of-life fishing gear for commercial fishers at Shoreham Port. Each berth now offers shore power and freshwater access, whilst welfare facilities have also been significantly improved.
Further enhancements include additional parking, Wi-Fi access, and upgraded security with new lighting, fencing, and a CCTV system.
On Thursday 30th January, stakeholders from the maritime sector, local authorities and port users gathered to officially open the refurbished marina. Originally in use since the 1950s and formerly known as Nicolson’s Marina, the facility has been renamed Fishersgate Marina to reflect the rich fishing heritage of the local area.
Julian Seaman, Harbour Master/Director of Marine Operations at Shoreham Port commented, “We are delighted to officially open Fishersgate Marina today, following several months of refurbishment works. The funding we received has enabled us to enhance our facilities for inshore fishing vessels and expand opportunities for fishers to visit the area and take advantage of this highly desirable location.”
Michelle Willis, Acting Chief Executive Officer at MMO commented, “The upgrades at Fishersgate Marina are a great example of the Marine Management Organisation’s commitment to supporting the long-term future, resilience, and sustainability of the UK fisheries and seafood sector. Through the UK Seafood Fund, we’ve been able to help create modern infrastructure at Shoreham Port, significantly increasing capacity and providing a critical boost for the local fishing community. This investment ensures that Shoreham remains a thriving hub for the fishing industry, delivering benefits for generations to come.”
To enquire about mooring availability please contact Lady Bee Chandlery:
+44 (0) 1273 591705
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