Port User Group

Newhaven Port serves our local economy and community. That includes businesses, residents, marine users, interest groups, and many others. We’re accountable to all of these stakeholders and we recognise how important their diverse views are in guiding us.

The Port User Group represents the groups and people who use the Port, and is how we make sure they’re involved in the decision-making and direction of the Port. 

As such an important part of Newhaven’s heritage and economy, the town’s fishing industry is represented by a sub-group, the West Quay Users (Fishing) Group and a small commercial vessels user group.

Terms of Reference and Members

Minutes of the Port User Group May 2025.

Minutes of the Port User Group November 2024.

Minutes of the Port User Group May 2024.

Minutes of West Quay Users (Fishing) Group November 2024.

History of Newhaven Port User’s Group

The Newhaven Port Users Group (PUG) was established in late 2009 by Newhaven Port & Properties Ltd (NPP) to foster effective communication between the Port Authority and its diverse maritime stakeholders. PUG aims to ensure that port users, including commercial operators, ferry services, fishermen, and leisure craft owners, have a structured platform to share information, raise concerns, and contribute to the port’s strategic planning.

The inaugural PUG meeting took place on 19 February 2010, featuring a presentation by Royal Haskoning on the Port Masterplan, followed by an interactive workshop where participants could express their aspirations for the port’s future. Recognising the unique needs of local fishermen, a sub-group named the West Quay Users (Fishing) Group was formed in April 2010 to facilitate focused dialogue between the fishing community and the Port Authority.

PUG has played a pivotal role in various consultations, including stakeholder workshops and navigational risk assessments, contributing to developing and refining the Port Masterplan. The group’s collaborative efforts have been instrumental in shaping initiatives that balance economic development with environmental stewardship, such as renewable energy projects like the Rampion Offshore Wind Farm.

By facilitating transparent and inclusive discussions, the Newhaven Port Users Group is a vital conduit for stakeholder engagement, ensuring that Newhaven Port’s evolution aligns with the interests and well-being of its users and the broader community.

Membership

Please contact us for enquiries about joining the Newhaven Port Users Group.