The installation of new floating pontoons has been completed at Bridlington harbour, following a successful trial introduced two years ago which was well received and proved there was a high demand.
The pontoons, close to the South Pier, accommodate 66 berths for leisure craft of all kinds ranging from cabin cruisers to ocean-going yachts. They now enable boats to be accessed at all stages of the tide and have water and electricity pedestals so that the vessels can be hooked up when berthed.
The £260,000 project has been funded by the Bridlington Harbour Commissioners, with a grant contribution of £49,000 from the Holderness Coast Fishery Local Action Group (FLAG) using money from Axis 4 of the European Fisheries Fund.
The FLAG was set up only a few months ago to implement a programme of assistance for the fishing industry and fishing communities along the East Riding coast. The pontoons are the first project to be implemented using FLAG money, though a total of eight projects have been agreed by the FLAG Board including support for four local seafood festivals; a health trainer for fishermen; restoration of the “Three Brothers” (Bridlington’s last remaining sailing coble); a Yorkshire Wildlife Trust programme to raise awareness of the maritime environment; and provision of “escape gaps” in lobster pot bottoms to reduce injury and discards.
George Traves MBE, chairman of the Harbour Commissioners, said: “The floating pontoons are the biggest development of the harbour for many years. The huge demand for them has fully vindicated our decision to expand the 11-berth trial pontoon. I am delighted at the interest in the project - the new serviced berths have already been filled. As well as improved facilities for the vessels, the scheme helps to raise the profile and interest in Bridlington and the harbour.”
Councillor Arthur Hodgson, chairman of the Holderness Coast FLAG, said: “This is the first project grant aided by the FLAG and we are pleased to support such an innovative and successful development.
“There has been strong interest in the work of the FLAG and we have already been able to support a number of worthwhile schemes which will help both the fishing industry and the coastal towns. The programme is open to applications for funding until the end of 2013 and we are expecting continued interest in the fund.”
