Solent Freeport has published two new reports setting out the progress made across the programme and the scale of future opportunity for the Solent Region’s economy.
The publication of its Annual Report 2025/26 and an independent Interim Programme Review follows consideration by the Solent Freeport Board and provides an evidence-led update on delivery, governance, investment and future priorities.
The Interim Programme Review, which assesses progress during the first three and a half years of the 25-year programme, finds that almost £640 million of investment has already been delivered across Freeport tax sites, with an additional £1.75 billion of international trading opportunities unlocked. It also identifies a significant future pipeline, including a further £850 million of private investment, more than £29 billion of trading opportunities, and over 4,750 direct jobs planned by the businesses that currently occupy the Freeport tax sites.
The report notes that current activity is either on track or exceeding key performance indicators, working with public and private sector partners in areas including trade and private investment. The future pipeline is expected to support stronger performance in jobs, regeneration, innovation and environmental outcomes.
Alongside this, Solent Freeport’s Annual Report 2025/26 sets out progress made over the past year, including the strengthening of governance and assurance arrangements, progress on major infrastructure projects, engagement with businesses and stakeholders, and the introduction of a refreshed long-term strategy and delivery programme.
Several Government-backed Seed Capital funded projects reached important milestones during the year, including completed site works, infrastructure upgrades and the opening of the new customs zone at Portsmouth International Port. The Annual Report also confirms that more than £30 million of private match funding has been secured to date.
Brian Johnson, Chair of Solent Freeport, said:
“These reports provide a clear and evidence-based picture of the progress Solent Freeport is making. We are still in the early years of a 25-year programme, but the foundations are now firmly in place, with significant investment delivered, major infrastructure projects advancing, and a strong pipeline of future opportunity.
“The next phase is about ensuring that this momentum translates into lasting benefits for the Solent Region – supporting trade, attracting investment, creating high-quality jobs, strengthening skills, driving innovation and helping the region move towards a cleaner, more sustainable economy.
“We are committed to being transparent about both the progress made and the areas where continued focus is needed. These reports show that Solent Freeport has an important role to play in supporting long-term economic growth across the region.”
The Annual Report highlights progress across key Freeport sites and projects including Dunsbury Park, Fawley Waterside, Navigator Quarter, Portico Albert Johnson Quay, Portsmouth International Port, Redbridge and Solent Gateway. It also sets out updates on investment promotion, programme delivery, finance, governance and assurance.
The Interim Programme Review also sets out proposed investment principles to guide the next phase of delivery, with a focus on facilitating the generation of high-skilled employment, supporting innovation, delivering environmental benefits and maximising the impact of retained business rates.
Solent Freeport will use the findings of both reports to support the next stage of programme delivery and to continue working with partners across business, local government, education, training and industry.
The reports are available at: https://solentfreeport.com/about-us/governance/key-documents/
Find out more about Solent Freeport at: https://solentfreeport.com/
