|
The Solent is known internationally as a location for sailing and other watersports. There are sheltered harbours for novices and children and safe open water for the more experienced. Large numbers of both local people and visitors take part in recreational boating throughout the year. Southampton and Portsmouth host many of the world's long distance sailing races, Cowes on the Isle of Wight welcomes the world's racing yachtsmen, and the Solent is animated with leisure boating throughout the year.
The leisure marine industry sector is therefore important to our region for the jobs it provides as well as to our local tourism industry. However, there is a current shortage of good quality waterfront access and many local companies are having to face the prospect of relocating within the UK or even abroad to get the facilities they need. (Marine South East (MSE)).
Research published in 2006 by the British Marine Federation (BMF) showed that nationally, in addition to the direct value added of £700 million, the industry contributes up to £2.2 billion to the UK tourism market. Other findings from the report showed that: