Portland Harbour
Portland Harbour is a significant maritime site located beside the Isle of Portland in Dorset, on the southern coast of England. It is notable for being one of the largest human-made harbours in the world, with construction that began in 1849 and completed in 1872.
Historical Development
The creation of Portland Harbour was initially driven by the Admiralty, serving as a strategic facility for the Royal Navy and providing accessibility to merchant vessels. The harbour was formally designated as HM Naval Base Portland on December 11, 1923. It continued to function in this capacity until its closure in 1995.
Structural Features
The harbour's construction resulted in a vast 520-hectare (1,300-acre) area, sheltered naturally by the Isle of Portland to the south, Chesil Beach to the west, and mainland Dorset to the north. This strategic positioning made it a critical naval asset, particularly during both World Wars.
World War II and Mulberry Harbours
During World War II, Portland Harbour played a vital role. The British developed the Mulberry harbours, temporary portable harbours, to aid in the D-Day invasions. One of the most remarkable artifacts from this period are the Phoenix breakwaters, remnants of this innovative engineering effort, two of which remain part of the harbour.
Post-Military Era
After the closure of the naval base, the harbour underwent significant changes. In 2004, Portland Harbour Authority Ltd became the Statutory and Competent Harbour Authority, and Portland Port Ltd emerged as the Port Operator. Since then, the commercial port has expanded, with the opening of the Britannia Passenger Terminal by Prince Philip on July 14, 1999, and the commissioning of a new bunkering jetty and berth in 2005.
Modern Usage
Today, Portland Harbour is no longer a military bastion but a commercial port and a hub for various marine and leisure activities. It is notably the site of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, which played a role in the 2012 Summer Olympics sailing events.