GBA wins contract to run one of the UK’s busiest Military Ports

The GBA Group has been awarded a major Ministry of Defence contract, which will see them managing the port operations at the Marchwood Military Port.

In a joint venture with Scotland based ferry and terminal operator, David MacBrayne Ltd, the two companies have formed ‘Solent Gateway Ltd’ to deliver the contract.

Marchwood Military Port, one of the UK’s major logistics military ports, is a 225-acre facility on Southampton Water, Hampshire.  It has been used for the movement of troops and equipment since 1943 and is also extensively used as a berth by the Royal Fleet Auxiliary in support of the Royal Navy.

The MOD has awarded Solent Gateway a 35-year concession to manage the military movements of the port and to develop trades in order to maximise the potential of commercial activity.

GBA's managing director, Captain Sam Judah MBE, said, "We are delighted to be awarded this prestigious contract to run the Port of Marchwood.

“Its location and infrastructure are second to none and we will be using all of our expertise and experience to ensure that existing services are delivered to the highest standard to maintain defence capabilities. We furthermore look forward to attracting complementary business to grow the port with opportunity to create additional employment in the area to boost both the local and national economy.

"We are extremely pleased to be working with our joint venture partners DML and we believe that our individual strengths will complement each other well in achieving greater success for the Port of Marchwood."

Solent Gateway Ltd will start operating Marchwood from December 2016.