A major marine company will build its new base at Osprey Quay - another step towards creating a centre for marine sector excellence.

World-class designer and manufacturer of racing sailboats, RMW Marine will invest in the site at Portland owned by the South West of England Regional Development Agency (RDA) by building a high quality marine workshop including a small retail area.

The new two-storey building will provide 9,000 sq ft of floor space, located on a 0.5-acre site adjoining Portland Castle.

RMW Marine has purchased the lease for their plot from the RDA and will start building its premises early in the New Year. The company will also relocate its sail loft and sail making operation to the new base.

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The building has been designed by ADG Architects with a BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) Excellent rating achieved through using innovative energy saving and generation features.

Bruce Voss, head of Regeneration for the South West RDA said: "The marine sector contributes around £1 billion to the economy of the South West and is a priority area for the RDA, as illustrated by our investment in the Marine Skills Centre in Poole. The commitment by RMW Marine To Osprey Quay demonstrates the importance of this development in driving up employment and economic wealth for Dorset.

"We look forward to working with RMW and securing further marine sector investment in the adjoining employment area as the project continues."

The news comes just weeks after a deal was signed with Sutton Harbour Group to transform part of Osprey Quay into a £30 million year-round tourism and leisure destination and the announcement by Sunseeker, Europe's largest exporter of motor yachts, will also be moving to the site.

RMW Marine Limited is a family-run business which has been based in South West England for many years. The company took the decision nearly three years ago to move to Portland when the first discussions were held regarding the venue for the 2012 Olympic Games sailing, should the bid to host the games be successful.

(JM)