CONSTRUCTION is set to begin next month on a trio of art units at Dunsbury Park, representing the first new facilities of this type to be built within the Solent Freeport.

The three will total more than 77,000 sq ft of industrial and manufacturing space and will be ready for businesses to move in from early 2023.

Each will target the highest environmental standards with a BREEAM Excellent rating.

Councillor Steve Pitt, cabinet member for culture, leisure and economic development at Portsmouth City Council, said: "Dunsbury Park presents a fantastic opportunity for businesses to take dual advantage of state-of-the-art industrial space and being part of the Solent Freeport cluster.

"This is the Solent Freeport's first fully-functioning, construction-ready tax zone and these new units will unlock freeport opportunities for more businesses."

He added: "Dunsbury Park is a vital asset for the area, generating millions of pounds of income for council services, creating thousands of local jobs and helping to provide long-term economic prosperity for businesses and their employees as part of the Solent Freeport."

Councillor Narinder Bains, deputy leader at Havant Borough Council, said: "Dunsbury Park represents a major priority employment site within Havant; we are working collaboratively with Portsmouth City Council in bringing forward the benefits of the Freeport which include employment opportunities and enhancing skills for Havant residents.

"The prospect of a further three new units is fantastic news."