The British government unveiled over £1.1 billion in combined public and private investment for the maritime sector to create jobs and drive growth in UK coastal towns and cities, according to a Department for Transport announcement. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced the package at London International Shipping Week, including £448 million in public funding to slash shipping emissions and £700 million in private investment for major UK ports. The funding aims to cement Britain’s position as a clean energy leader while breaking down barriers in coastal communities.
The investment bolsters the UK SHORE programme, which supports research and development of clean maritime technologies including electric, hydrogen, ammonia, and wind power systems. Previous projects have delivered £240 million to over 200 initiatives nationwide, supporting 750 jobs so far. One success story is Cammell Laird’s £7 million shore power system in Birkenhead, which lets docked vessels plug into the electric grid and run emission-free like giant electric cars.
Private sector commitments include Peel Ports’ £300 million investment across Liverpool, Hunterston, and Great Yarmouth facilities. NatPower Marine pledged £250 million for shore-side power infrastructure, expected to create over 2,000 skilled jobs in engineering and construction. The Port of Tyne’s £150 million North Side development could generate up to 12,000 jobs in offshore wind and manufacturing sectors.
The government will also streamline port planning processes through a revised national policy statement covering England and Wales’ Milford Haven.
“Today’s £1.1 billion boost for the maritime industry will supercharge growth and jobs in our coastal towns and cities,” Alexander said.
The initiative supports Britain’s net-zero goals by 2050 while positioning the country as a top destination for maritime investment.
