A new quay will be constructed at Berths 201 and 202

The UK port of Southampton has received government approval for a $130 million project that will enable it to handle the largest container vessel sailing today.

The port will construct a new quay wall at Berths 201 and 202. The quay will be 500 meters in length, with a 16 metre draft.

"This consent allows us to press forward with important works at Berths 201/2," said Doug Morrison, port director.

"With the size of container vessels continuing to increase, the container terminal can no longer accommodate four of the largest container ships simultaneously – this development will rectify that situation by creating the 'lost' fourth berth," added Morrison.

The main works, which will involve an investment of approximately £80 million, will begin in September 2012, with completion anticipated by the end of 2013.

The consent was received at the same time as Network Rail completed extensive works to upgrade the rail capacity for containers moving between the port and the West Coast Mainline.