Workers at the new Cowes RNLI slipway.
WORK on the slipway at the new Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Station reached the stage this week when sections above the low-water line can now be seen.
As the process of putting in place the slipway platform began at the seaward end, the first sections were under water — aligned to tubular piles with the assistance of local divers.
But such has been the progress made by the contractor, there are now sections well above the low-water line. All sections are due to be in place by Friday.
Meanwhile, another contractor is well underway converting the Custom House next to the Island Sailing Club into the new lifeboat station.
The current Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Station is within Shepards Wharf Marina but the RNLI is refurbishing the old Custom House building, near the mouth of the River Medina, to create a new lifeboat station.
This will bring the lifeboat four minutes closer to the open sea and allow the crew to reach casualties more quickly.
For more information or to find out how you can support the Cowes Lifeboat Station Appeal, visit www.rnli.org.uk/cowesappeal
Reporter: suep@iwcpmail.co.uk