Updates on Portsmouth Royal Navy base upgrades promised soon amid push to finish "as quickly as possible"
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Further details on major upgrades to Portsmouth Naval Base will be announced to the public soon.
Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan said he is pushing for more information to be released after the scheme was initially announced this Spring. More jetties and berths will be built at HMNB Portsmouth, but a timeline and specific costs have yet to be announced.
Speaking to The News aboard HMS Prince of Wales, the Labour politician said: “Portsmouth people are proud that our city is the heart and home of the Royal Navy. I’m proud to be part of a government that recognises Portsmouth as an engine of growth. Investing in Project Bentham to upgrade our naval base is a tremendous action this government is making. Ensuring we have the infrastructure for the future is absolutely vital.”
When asked when the public will receive further details, he added: “The people of Portsmouth will know the work I’ve been doing to secure that funding. I’m working closely with ministers to make sure it’s delivered as quickly as possible.”
What are the planned upgrades for HMNB Portsmouth?
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced Project Bentham alongside a further increase in defence spending of £2.2bn. Funding will go towards increasing the number of operational jetties and ship berths to increase ship availability and protect the site from rising sea levels.
New Type 31 Inspiration-class frigates are due to be based in the city once they’re constructed. Other changes include replacing aging buildings and other infrastructure with carbon-efficient accommodation and welfare facilities.
Further details on several projects are due to be announced in the defence investment plan, promised to be published this autumn but has lapsed. Defence secretary John Healey did not give further information on Project Bentham, but stressed its importance on securing the Royal Navy for years to come.
“Project Bentham will give this city and naval base a long term future,” he added. “I hope it’ll mean the Royal Navy is welcoming a government that will increase defence investment at a record level since The Cold War, and direct it to make sure we make ourselves safe at home and strong abroad. At the same time, we can drive economic growth, jobs, and fresh opportunities for people.”