Kilmartin reveals £325m plans for Southampton’s Royal Pier

  Kilmartin has unveiled its plans for its £325m transformation of Southampton’s waterfront.   The Scottish developer’s plans for the Royal Pier propose demolishing the derelict pier, and putting in its place a new promenade stretching from Mayflower Park to Town Quay.   To make space for the development, which would form a circular bay, the Red Funnel ferry terminal would be relocated.   Kilmartin’s plans comprise shops, restaurants, hotels and offices, along with a major tourist attraction, such as an arena or casino.   The city council, together with landowners Associated British Ports and Crown Estates, plan to make the pier a key destination, with plans for a public park to connect the waterfront to the city.   Kilmartin entered into an 18-month exclusivity agreement with Southampton council in July last year after the plans to regenerate the area were delayed several times.   The council has said it is under no obligation to take Kilmartin’s plans forward, and said the site will be marketed to developers in February.   Cllr Royston Smith, cabinet member for economic development, said: “I would rather see it take 10 years than it being a second-rate development in this location.”   The scheme is also to accommodate hosting the Southampton Boat Show, which attracts 122,000 visitors every year.   helen.roxburgh@egi.co.uk