SOUTHAMPTON MPs have voiced their views over a new cruise terminal in the city.

MPs Caroline Nokes, Royston Smith and Alan Whitehead have welcomed the news of the opening of a new cruise terminal at the Port of Southampton next year.

But they particularly praised the shore power connectivity set to be installed at the site.

As reported, this will provide shore-side electrical power to cruise ships which therefore would not need to run their diesel engines.

The new cruise terminal will also benefit from roof-mounted solar power.

City MPs said the move will protect the environment as well as the city economy.

Royston Smith, MP for Southampton Itchen, said: “The energy efficiency and solar panels are a demonstration of how we can continue to grow the economy while protecting our environment. I am particularly pleased with the addition of shore power, which I lobbied government to contribute to, this will help to reduce emissions from cruise ships while they are in port.”

Southampton Test MP Alan Whitehead said: “I am thrilled that this new cruise terminal will allow cruise ships docking in Southampton to use Shore Power instead of running their diesel engines. This is something I’ve been pushing for over many years.  It will ensure that the boost to tourism and the local economy that this terminal will hopefully bring to our city is sustainable and green.”

Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, added: “I think it is great news and a real confidence boost for the cruise sector in the City.”

As reported, an exact opening date as well as the number of jobs set to be created are yet to be confirmed.

But port bosses said the fifth terminal will open for the 2021 cruise season.

The move is expected to bring millions of pounds to the local economy.

Associated British Ports (ABP) said thanks to a partnership with cruise giants MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, the port’s newest terminal will welcome the next generation of ships “in terms of size, capacity and technology”.