THE marine industry in Poole has been lauded for its vital role in supporting the UK economy.

A spokesperson from the British Marine Trade Association remarked on the quality of marine engineering on England’s South Coast, which heavily contributes to an industry worth £3.97 billion per year.

Head of technical services at British Marine, Ross Wombwell, said Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole were a vital 'marine cluster', “with over 40 miles of coastline, two ports, three harbours and a wealth of brilliant boat designers and manufacturers”.

Poole-based marine engineers Timeless Tube, which makes handrails for yachts and motorboats, is one of the companies which has experienced a boom in marine trade post-pandemic.

Timeless has teamed up with local hinge experts PE Marine Designz to make bespoke stainless steel concealed gates and shrouding that are revolutionising marine design.

Its managing director Tom McMillan said: “We’re part of a pioneering collection of smaller local businesses delivering exciting design alongside the work of marine giants such as Sunseeker. High-end innovations that are used on yachts and motorboats across the globe.

“We’ve recently experienced a huge boost in demand for our marine railings – whether we’re making replacement rails for a tender boat in Christchurch or sophisticated gates for a superyacht in Monaco.

“There has been a notable increase in trade from the small leisure boat industry. We’re expanding our in-house fabrication team to meet this demand.”

Bournemouth Echo: A bespoke marine gate hinge housed inside Timeless Tube’s unique oval tubing

Timeless has recently been awarded £15,000 by BCP Council to develop pioneering new tube products for marine applications and to expand its existing range.

“We’re delighted to receive this support from the council because it recognises the importance of our work and the vital local supply chain that we are part of,” added Tom.

The grant was part of BCP Council’s Bounce Back Challenge Fund.

Council deputy leader, Councillor Philip Broadhead, said: “Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have some of the best talent in the marine industry in the world, and it’s time we started shouting about it.

“We’ve got a world class natural environment and a burgeoning economy to match, and we’re doing everything we can to unlock the potential of our coastline of opportunity.

“Supporting growing businesses such as this, in one of our vital local industries, is paramount to seeing that potential realised.”