For businesses considering relocation, expansion or a new office, location is about much more than the building itself. Access to talent, transport, customers and quality of life all play a part.

The South Coast and M27 corridor offer a compelling combination of connectivity, bringing Southampton, Portsmouth and the surrounding towns and business communities together into one of the UK’s most well connected commercial regions.

A Connected Business Location

The M27 provides the backbone of the region, linking Southampton and Portsmouth with the wider South Coast and connecting directly to the M3 towards London and the national motorway network.

For many businesses, the attraction is not choosing between Southampton and Portsmouth, but being able to operate within this wider commercial ecosystem.

Solent Business Park: A Strategic Location

At the heart of the corridor, Solent Business Park occupies a particularly strategic position at Junction 9 of the M27. Located between Southampton and Portsmouth, it provides businesses with straightforward access to both cities and the wider South Coast.

For occupiers looking to relocate, this central position can provide an excellent base from which to reach customers, employees and suppliers across the region, while offering a range of established commercial premises.

Southampton and Portsmouth: Two Cities, One Wider Economy

Both cities bring distinctive strengths to the wider Solent economy.

Southampton has a long-established maritime and commercial heritage, with its docks playing an important role in freight, ferry services and cruise activity. The city is also home to the University of Southampton, a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for research, innovation and graduate talent.

Portsmouth has an equally distinctive identity, shaped by its naval heritage and continuing importance to the UK defence sector. Its maritime history, university community and links to technology and engineering add further depth to the local economy.

Together with Solent University and the University of Portsmouth, the region’s three universities provide access to a broad pipeline of graduate and specialist talent.

More Than Just Business

One of the less tangible advantages of relocating to the South Coast is the quality of the surrounding environment.

The region combines the amenities of two vibrant cities with access to some of southern England’s most distinctive landscapes. The New Forest lies to the west of Southampton, while the South Downs National Park stretches across the wider Hampshire landscape.

The Solent itself provides a unique coastal setting, with opportunities for sailing, watersports and leisure. For employers, this can be an important consideration when attracting and retaining staff who value lifestyle alongside their working environment.

A Region with Strong Sector Credentials

The South Coast has a long history of specialist industries. Southampton’s maritime heritage and port infrastructure sit alongside Portsmouth’s naval and defence legacy, creating a region with established expertise across sectors including engineering, technology, maritime and advanced manufacturing.

The area’s aviation heritage is equally significant. The Spitfire was developed and first flown in Southampton, reflecting the region’s long-standing connection with engineering, innovation and manufacturing.

These foundations, combined with the region’s universities and established business communities, contribute to a diverse and highly skilled economic environment.

Finding the Right Location Along the M27

From Southampton and Portsmouth to Fareham, Segensworth, Eastleigh and Solent Business Park, the M27 corridor offers a range of locations and commercial property options for businesses at different stages of growth.

The right choice will depend on your workforce, customers, transport requirements and future growth plans. For some businesses, proximity to the ports or city centres may be important; for others, accessibility and a central M27 location could be the priority.

For businesses looking at their next stage of growth, the South Coast and M27 corridor offer a combination of connectivity, talent, established industries and quality of life that is difficult to replicate.

Hellier Langston has extensive experience advising businesses across the South Coast and M27 corridor. If you are considering relocation or reviewing your current premises, explore our available commercial property or contact the Hellier Langston team to discuss your requirements.