THE official opening of a £6m lock gates project is the first step to putting Milford Haven on the tourism map, said Preseli-Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb.

Mr Crabb cut the ribbon on the gates on Friday (June 26), before a flotilla of yachts made a symbolic journey through the new access.

Standing almost 12 metres high and weighing 90 tonnes each, they represent a major upgrade to the giant lock system, first built by the Victorians more than 125 years ago when they created the docks as a home to the large fishing fleets of that time.

Speaking ahead of the opening, Mr Crabb said: “This new investment represents another step forward for the Port of Milford Haven.

"The £6m project is a significant infrastructure investment and is the first step in the delivery of the Milford Dock Master Plan which will put Milford firmly on the map as a leisure destination.

"The new lock gates have made Milford Marina the most accessible tidal marina in the UK and a hub for the leisure marine industry in west Wales.

"Pembrokeshire has a thriving tourism industry and this new investment has the potential to attract and most importantly develop new opportunities for businesses locally.”

The gates’ completion ensures much faster and more frequent lock times, and marina and docks manager Alaric Churchill said they will make a huge difference for boaters.

“Boats can come and go at any time now, more often and more quickly," he said.

"That’s great news for berth holders getting out to sail along Pembrokeshire’s beautiful coastline of course.

"But it’s also great news for visiting boats from near or far, who will find it easier than ever to pop in for the day and enjoy what Milford Marina has to offer."

The Dock Lock project was part of Visit Wales’ Coastal Tourism project, part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government, to encourage tourism along the Welsh coastline.

It represents the single biggest investment in the docks in two generations, and also heralds a major redevelopment of the whole area, being overseen by the Port of Milford Haven, that will see new shops, restaurants, retail, leisure and homes being built there.

Work has already started on rejuvenating Wales’ largest fish docks, where they are building new dockside facilities and seafood processing areas.

Alec Don, chief executive at the Port of Milford Haven said the Port's aim was to create local jobs and boost the economy.

“Milford Haven has the potential to be a core destination in Pembrokeshire," he said.

"There are already some fantastic retail outlets and top quality restaurants here, as well as excellent leisure venues including the Torch Theatre, the Waterfront Gallery and Milford Museum.

"This year we are adding to the list of attractions with the start of Discover Milford’s heritage boat tours operating out of the marina.

"The Milford Dock Master Plan will add to this collection which means soon there’ll be even more reason to come here.”