A MULTI-MILLION pound facelift for Southampton’s cruise facilities is set to get underway this winter.

ABP Port of Southampton and Carnival UK have teamed up to invest £5million in improvements for the Queen Elizabeth II Cruise Terminal to help ensure it provides the best experience for customers.

Passenger numbers through Southampton are continuing to increase and the refurbishments will include the installation of a state-of-the-art walkway, as well as sprucing up check-in, baggage and passenger x-ray areas.

The companies say the investment will ensure a greater range of cruise ships can utilise the terminal with brand-new technology.

Nick Ridehalgh, ABP director in Southampton, said: “The number of cruise passengers coming through Southampton’s port continues to rise, with 1.75million expected to pass through this year.

“It’s therefore vital that we ensure our facilities are in the very best shape to accommodate these passengers and that they are laid out in a way that gives people a seamless and stress-free start to their holidays.”

The first phase of the work is set to be completed in spring 2016 and the second phase, which includes the walkway installation, will be finalised in winter 2016.

The project is the latest in a series of investments made by ABP into improving the city’s cruise facilities after significant investment was made into upgrades at the City Cruise Terminal in the last two years.

Steven Young, director of port services and government affairs for Carnival UK, said: “We are delighted that these works, following on from recent improvements to both the Ocean and Mayflower cruise terminals, will give our guests a consistent and improved experience regardless of the terminal at which they join or leave the ship.

“As well as Cunard and P&O Cruises, other Carnival brands including Princess, Holland America and Aida will benefit.”