Benefits to Wisbech and Fenland
Economic:
- Creation of new knowledge-based employment opportunities - The Boathouse will comprise of 31 business units.
- Diversity - the creation of a new marine industry sector in the area around the wet dock/slipway.
- Improve the long-term sustainability of the yacht harbour - pontoons, wet dock and boatlift facility.
- Creation of approximately 200 jobs.
- Increased tourist potential - yacht harbour.
- Waterfront retail and restaurant opportunities.
- New investment in the area.
- Increase in local spend.
- Benefits of a major construction project.
Environmental:
- Removal and redevelopment of a redundant brownfield sites close to the town centre.
- Environmental protection measures - remediation of former gas works site.
- Creation of an enhanced pedestrian priority public waterfront.
- Improved and safer pedestrian and cycle links.
- Proposed provision of a new pedestrian/cycle bridge linking separate quarters of the town.
- Utilise innovative and sustainable design principles - eco friendly, energy efficient.
- Introduction of new public spaces for the community.
Social:
- Introduction of more than 300 homes, 13 per cent of which will be 'affordable'.
- Use of the Port and Boathouse as a local training and education resource.
- Training opportunities for young disadvantaged people via the Foyer scheme.
- Improvements to deprived Waterlees Ward - parking, lighting, access.
- Raising local aspirations and creating a sense of pride.