The UK is preparing for the 2012 Olympics by opening a new marina, able to accommodate superyachts up to 80m (260ft), at Poole Harbour in southern England.

“The nearest marina to the Olympic sailing events – at Portland – will be closed to superyachts on security grounds,” explains John Binder, manager of developers, Poole Quay Boat Haven. “So our intention is to provide suitable berths for superyachts that want to come and enjoy the games.”

This new marina, which will open in April 2011, is part of a £20m programme to rejuvenate Poole’s harbour facilities following the loss of a ferry service to France. The programme also includes a long-term plan to build another marina that will have 800 berths.