Plans for new marina

A NEW 800-berth yacht harbour could play a major role in the regeneration of Newhaven.

Newhaven Port and Properties is looking at the viability of building a major yacht basin on the inside of the Newhaven Breakwater to complement existing facilities.

Currently, the marina can berth just 250 boats. The proposed increase could take it into the same league as Brighton which has space for 1,200.

The plan would be to dredge the area and build a rock groyne from the end of the breakwater inshore. West Beach would also be revamped and a new yacht club built.

The sandy beach, which is popular with visitors and townsfolk alike, would be unaffected.

Port manager Steve Buhlman said the marina was one of several ideas being considered by its new French owners to regenerate it after years of neglect.

He said: 'The aim is to rejuvenate Newhaven Harbour and make it a viable profit-making modern harbour.'

Other ideas include more quayside housing and schemes to maximise the potential of East Quay for new businesses.