Northern Ireland construction firm Graham has completed work on the first phase of a major upgrade project at the Port of Southampton.

The contractor delivered the first phase of the £12 million project, which saw the port's largest terminal improved on the quayside with 18 new 150 tonne bollards replacing the existing 50 tonne bollards.

Further upgrades included the addition of a new entrance lobby, the alteration of the terminal building to provide improved, and additional, vertical transition, the expansion of the security X-Ray area and the provision of access to the second Seaport Passenger Boarding Bridge (SPBB).

Other features of the programme of works were the alteration of the store's building roof, provision of a roof structure over the 'fourth' inward cabin baggage portal, the completion of a canopied vehicle set down area and the paving of the HGV marshalling zone, accommodating the realignment of the fencing and gates, plus new drainage.

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The Ocean Cruise Terminal has since reopened following the works.

Leo Martin, Graham Managing Director – Civil Engineering, said: "The first phase upgrade at the Port of Southampton is an important infrastructure project that will help to support continued growth in the cruise sector.

"The technical competency and engineering excellence of our team facilitated a smooth process throughout the project. Indeed, our alternative solution for the construction of the new 150 tonne bollards on reinforced concrete foundations, with the removal of the existing bollards, was specifically chosen for use by ABP (Associated British Ports).

"We have consistently demonstrated our capacity to deliver high-quality projects on time and to budget in the face of the unique challenges presented by port and maritime environments."

These upgrades are being delivered in partnership between ABP and P&O Cruises.

The entire project will be completed in early 2020 with the installation of two new airbridges and a further 2,000 roof-mounted solar panels.

(CM/MH)