DAYS before a public inquiry into increased boat owners’ fees at Bembridge Harbour, the trust that wants to buy it has produced an in-depth survey into the state of the haven.
A Department for Transport inspector will hear evidence from the owner, the Bembridge Harbour Improvement Company, and users at a public inquiry into harbour dues set to start at Bembridge Sailing Club on Tuesday.
Among the evidence will be the report from the Bembridge Harbour Trust about the impact it says low water levels are having on boat owners, tourism and commercial activities.
It was prepared by boatyard owner Chris Attrill, a trustee of the organisation established to buy the harbour, which is expected to soon come onto the market with an estimated £3 million price-tag.
The report concludes: "If no action is taken to stop accumulation increasing the height of the sea bed and dredging is not undertaken in those areas where it is possible, Bembridge will no longer be an accessible and safe haven for boats.
"If boats can no longer use the harbour the repercussions for many businesses in the area will be disastrous."
The Attrill report recommends: "An extensive review should be carried out to determine what action is required and the timescale for doing it so that the survival of Bembridge Harbour is ensured as a working, safe harbour that will also continue to be attractive to visiting boats."
His report details there being less water in the harbour now and for it being there for less time either side of high water than the 1970s when it, controversially, became one of the few harbours in the country to pass into private hands.
The report blames lack of maintenance dredging and says the situation could be being made worse by deterioration of the groynes adjacent to the harbour entrance.
Reporter: richardw@iwcpmail.co.uk