Falmouth Wharves' future as a commercial maritime site secured

The wharves, off North Parade, were put under threat as a working maritime site by developers who had wanted to build a hotel, but their plans were rejected and KML has this week announced it has bought the site.

The acquisition plays an important role in KML’s expansion plans which will see up to 39 new jobs created and will mean that the wharves retain their historic, commercial maritime use for the future.

Keynvor MorLift, which is Cornish for ocean sea lift, was a tenant at the wharves prior to the purchase.

“This acquisition is an important and exciting step forward for KML in providing long-term focus to our operations," said managing director, Diccon Rogers. "For the first time we will benefit from bringing our teams together and making Falmouth our headquarters.

“The deep water wharves at Falmouth will be a superb base for our local operations and a launch pad for projects further afield. The location and all-tide access will help us to better serve customers who require a rapid response particularly along the South coast, for example salvaging vessels. The site is also vital for supporting other marine sectors including marine renewable energy.”

KML will begin a phased re-development of the maritime site to repair, enhance and protect it. The long-term vision is to create a hub of specialist, commercial marine businesses whose skills complement one another and who can work together to deploy contracts locally, nationally and overseas.

KML’s purchase is also important for Falmouth Wharves itself. “There is a long list of commercial wharves and docks around the UK lost to residential and leisure development, to siltation, demolition, and infilling, or simply to plain neglect and abandonment," said Mr Rogers. "Many will recall how close the wharves have come in the past to joining that list. We are now delighted to be redressing the balance in our own way, and we are planning phases of long-term repairs and improvements to the wharves and its buildings. Falmouth Wharves will be firmly on the map for commercial marine operations.”

The purchase was made possible by the support of a capital grant from the Cornwall Marine Capital Fund, a Regional Growth Fund delegated grant programme managed by Cornwall Marine Network (CMN).

“This investment provides a significant opportunity for KML to enhance and grow their operations, create new jobs and to preserve and protect a strategically important marine industry asset," said Paul Wickes, CEO of CMN. "There will also be very positive spin-offs for other Cornish marine businesses that supply KML or partner with them.”

MP Sarah Newton, added: "Congratulations to KML on their purchase of Falmouth Wharves. The wharves are essential for supporting Cornwall’s small ship and work boat industry. The prospect of 39 new jobs created will be a real boost for Falmouth’s economy.”