Unlocking Trade. Empowering Growth.
Located at Marchwood on Southampton Water, ABP Solent Gateway Ltd (SGL) is a dynamic multimodal port and logistics hub, strategically positioned to serve the UK’s most vital markets—including London, the Midlands, and beyond. As part of the Solent Freeport, we offer unmatched access to sea, rail, and road networks, making us a pivotal gateway for global trade and investment.
ABP Solent Gateway plays a critical role in supporting the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD). The port is a designated Strategic Military Port, providing secure infrastructure for the movement of military personnel, vehicles, and equipment. ABP Solent Gateway is a trusted partner in national defence logistics and has a 35-year lease to operate the port to accommodate military and commercial operations. It operates as part of ABP Southampton and therefore benefits from access to the large, skilled workforce and its shared services.
At ABP Solent Gateway, we’re incredibly proud to have been awarded Silver status in the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme. This recognition means a great deal to us, as it reflects our deep respect and ongoing support for veterans, reservists, cadets, and the spouses and partners of those who serve. We’re committed to creating a workplace where their unique skills and experiences are valued and celebrated.
Why Choose ABP Solent Gateway?
- 225 acres of port-centric logistics space
- 4 berths across two jetties with RoRo and LoLo capabilities
- Direct rail access with 10km of sidings and national connectivity
- 85 miles by road to London
- Freeport Tax and Customs Site status with significant tax and customs advantages
Our Services
We support a wide range of Ministry Defence and commercial activities, including:
- Automotive import/export, PDI and storage
- Project cargo and break-bulk handling
- RoRo and LoLo shipping
- Renewable energy logistics
- Warehousing and operational support
Marine Facilities
ABP Solent Gateway offers robust marine infrastructure designed for flexibility and scale:
- 2 berths with 11m and 8.5m maintained depth
- Accommodates vessels up to 245m in length and 38m beam
- 169m usable quay length
- Two dolphins for vessels up to 245m
- 25,000 metric tonnes max berthing load
- Rail access and link-span facilities
- 2 berths with 4m maintained depth
- 115m usable quay length
- Two 32-tonne rail-mounted cranes with container handling capability
- Four link-span pontoons (100-tonne SWL)
- Slipway available on request
- Tidal advantage from Southampton Water’s double tide, allowing extended operational windows
A Port with Purpose
ABP Solent Gateway is more than a port—it’s a platform for growth. Our ongoing development includes:
- 64 hectares of high-quality logistics space
- Enhanced security and site access
- Ecological buffers and biodiversity initiatives
- Improved pedestrian and cycle routes
We’re also proud to support the UK Ministry of Defence, providing vital infrastructure for military logistics.
Sustainable Connectivity
- Sea: Direct access to Southampton Shipping Lanes and international waters
- Rail: National rail network connection with underutilized train paths
- Road: New secure access from Cracknore Hard to reduce congestion
- Active Travel: New pedestrian and cycle routes connecting the port to local infrastructure
Part of the Solent Freeport
ABP Solent Gateway is a designated Tax and Customs Site within the Solent Freeport, one of the UK’s most strategically important Freeports. This status brings significant advantages for businesses, including:
- Tax incentives such as enhanced capital allowances, business rates relief, and reduced employer National Insurance contributions
- Customs benefits including simplified procedures and duty deferral
- Planning and infrastructure support to accelerate development
- Access to innovation funding and green growth initiatives
The Solent Freeport is expected to generate over 15,000 jobs, boost the local economy, and drive investment in advanced manufacturing, logistics, and clean energy.
Backed by ABP
ABP Solent Gateway is wholly owned by Associated British Ports (ABP)—the UK’s leading port operator. Together, we’re committed to innovation, sustainability, and supporting the UK economy.
Join Us
Whether you're looking to expand your logistics footprint, import/export goods, or establish operations within a Freeport, ABP Solent Gateway offers the flexibility, infrastructure, and support to help your business thrive.