Shoreham Port operates as a Trust Port located on the South Coast of England, serving as a vital commercial gateway within the Sussex region. Unlike privately owned docks, its status as a trust port means it functions as an independent statutory body governed by its own local legislation. It has no shareholders; instead, any surplus revenue generated from its diverse maritime activities is reinvested directly into the maintenance, improvement, and development of the port infrastructure for the benefit of stakeholders and the local community.
Geographically situated close to the shipping lanes of the English Channel, the port handles a significant volume of short-sea traffic. It is particularly recognized for its capabilities in handling dry bulk cargoes and general merchandise. The port plays a substantial role in the UK construction supply chain, serving as a primary entry point for imported timber, with extensive terminals dedicated to forest products from Scandinavia and the Baltics. In addition to timber, the facility regularly processes aggregates, steel, grain, and recycled materials. The infrastructure includes lock gates that manage tidal access, allowing for the stable loading and discharge of vessels within the canal basin, distinct from the tidal river berths.
Beyond cargo handling, Shoreham Port maintains a strong focus on vessel engineering and support services. It operates a dry dock facility, providing essential repair and maintenance capabilities for coastal vessels, tugs, and workboats. This engineering capacity supports both the resident fishing fleet and visiting commercial ships, ensuring operational readiness for diverse maritime assets. The port also manages a substantial commercial property portfolio and accommodates a thriving leisure sector, including a marina, although its core identity remains rooted in commercial shipping and logistics.
Historically, the harbour has existed in various forms since the Roman era, evolving from a natural estuary into the engineered waterway seen today. Over centuries, the entrance has shifted due to longshore drift, necessitating significant civil engineering interventions to stabilize the harbour mouth. In the modern maritime landscape, the organization actively pursues decarbonization strategies and environmental stewardship, integrating renewable energy initiatives into its daily operations to ensure the longevity and ecological responsibility of its maritime functions.
