Sir Ben Ainslie has been given the go-ahead to build his British team’s America’s Cup base in Old Portsmouth.

The city council’s planning committee have unanimously backed the project’s planning application to build the team’s headquarters and visitors centre at Camber Dock.

However, Ben Ainslie Racing (BAR) is still awaiting confirmation of £8million worth of
government funding before the project can begin.

Four-time Olympic champion and America’s Cup sailing star Sir Ben Ainslie said: ‘Ben Ainslie Racing was delighted to receive approval for the team’s new base on the Camber in Portsmouth. We are particularly grateful for the support of the city’s residents.

‘The new headquarters will provide jobs for many local people, with the construction industry the most immediate beneficiaries once work commences on the building.

‘Over time, we anticipate that the base will create 90 permanent and up to 550 indirect jobs in the area, providing a significant boost to local employment.
 
‘However the team being based in Portsmouth is still contingent on receiving additional funding streams that we will continue to work on over the next seven-to-10 days before we are able to make a final decision on the team’s permanent base in the city.’

Last week, Ainslie launched his £80million bid to
win the America’s Cup, the 163-year old trophy never won by Great
Britain.

The event at the Royal Museums Greenwich
was attended by the Duchess of Cambridge.

Councillor Donna Jones, Leader of Portsmouth City Council said: ‘I am delighted to welcome Sir Ben Ainslie and his team to Portsmouth.

‘The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest, international, sporting
trophy and to support the dreams of Sir Ben Ainslie, who is the greatest
Olympic sailor of all time, is a wonderful opportunity.

‘This is an incredible accolade for the city, which puts us on the
international stage. We aim to become a world-class waterfront
destination.

‘Understandably some questions have been raised about the scheme,
and various public meetings have been held by BAR to discuss concerns.

‘The city will benefit hugely through 100s of jobs and income which
will flood in from hosting events. Importantly it’s also a massive boost
to our marine and maritime industry.

‘We now await of the outcome of government funding to complete the development.’

For more information about today’s council meeting visit The News website.

Find out more about the team here http://benainslieracing.com/

Pictures: Sir Ben Ainslie with the America’s Cup. Credit: Lloyd images

An artist’s impression of the proposed Ben Ainslie Racing base at Portsmout. Credit: HGP Architects Ltd