The new-look Buckler’s Hard is starting to take shape as a £2million redevelopment of the boatshed continues.
The multi-million pound improvements hope to offer opportunities for marine-based businesses to relocate to the south coast.
A new roof has been completed and steel framework adaptations outside have been successful, with final external work being completed in the early new year.
Redevelopment will then move inside, as builders hope to create new waterfront offices and meeting rooms with panoramic views across the Beaulieu River.
Workshop units and new boat refit facilities will also be available, with all spaces being on the market to rent from late spring 2025.
READ MORE: Work starts on £2 million Buckler's Hard redevelopment
Harbour Master Wendy Stowe said: ”We are excited to see the boatshed building taking shape and starting to see how the impressive riverside offices, meeting rooms and workshops will look.”
Wendy’s team has moved to a temporary reception in the boatyard while the seven-month redevelopment is being completed.
More than 10,000 people visit Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour on Beaulieu River each year on the marina’s 200 fully serviced walk-ashore pontoon berths.
The harbour was ranked one of the UK’s best marinas after being placed in the top 5% of ‘5 Gold Anchors’ winners in awards held by The Yacht Harbour Association.
The Beaulieu River harbour was also voted the best place for sailors to call home after it won Marina of the Year in British Yachting’s 2022 awards.
The harbour is open as normal during development, which started in October.
READ MORE: Buckler's Hard history revealed on BBC's Villages by the Sea
Builders first had to move on site to remove cladding from the original boatshed before any improvements could be made.
Wendy previously said that her team were excited to start work on the redevelopment, calling it 'another milestone in delivering the best facilities and services' for all of their customers.
The redevelopment is a benefit for the yacht harbour's 500 berth and mooring holders.
Buckler's Hard was recently featured on BBC 2's Villages by the Sea as archaeologist Ben Robinson uncovered the history and heritage of the shipbuilding village.
He showcased a hamlet on the banks of the Beaulieu River and dove into the role the village played during wars between Britain and France in the 1700s.
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