Associated British Ports (ABP) has launched a Preliminary Market Engagement for its Solent Gateway 2 project — a planned expansion of the Port of Southampton designed to boost capacity, sustainability, and connectivity.
The proposal outlines what ABP describes as a considered expansion of one of the UK’s busiest deep-sea ports. The development would include a world-leading automotive terminal, new marine facilities, improved road access, and a major new country park designed to enhance both the local landscape and environment.
Expanding a major UK logistics hub
The Port of Southampton is one of the UK’s leading ports for automotive and container traffic and plays a vital role in national and international trade. It handles millions of vehicles annually and serves as a key gateway for global car manufacturers. Adjacent to DP World Southampton, one of the country’s largest and most advanced container terminals, the port forms part of a critical logistics corridor linking the south coast to inland freight routes and manufacturing centres.
Solent Gateway already contributes significantly to this wider economic ecosystem, supporting thousands of jobs and facilitating trade across the UK. However, ABP says the existing infrastructure is nearing capacity following years of sustained growth at Southampton – an example of which might be the recent rail logistics yard opening.
Building for future demand
ABP are the landlords of the whole port estate at Southampton. “Solent Gateway has grown rapidly into a true UK success story,” said Alastair Welch, Director, Port of Southampton. “As we look to the future, we recognise that continued success means thinking ahead. That’s why we’re now exploring the case for a considered expansion of the port.”
According to ABP, Solent Gateway 2 would not only meet future demand but also strengthen the port’s resilience and sustainability. The project includes a new direct access route connecting the site to the national highway (the A326 road). That would have environmental benefits. Vehicles serving the extension would be able to bypass Marchwood village and reducing local traffic impacts.
Engagement with suppliers and stakeholders
The current consultation follows a public engagement process that closed on 13 October. ABP is now inviting suppliers to participate in early-stage market discussions under a non-competitive early engagement process, as defined by the Procurement Regulations 2024. The regulations are a set of UK statutory rules that support the government’s reform of public procurement law.
The company expects to hold further one-to-one and group sessions with potential suppliers as the proposals develop. Interested organisations can register to receive updates, share initial views, and express interest in future opportunities related to the project.
Although Associated British Ports is a privately owned company, its Solent Gateway 2 project falls under the Procurement Regulations 2024 because of the nature of the activity and the regulatory framework that applies to port operators in the UK.