Agenda, decisions and minutes

To elect Chair for 2020/21

To re-elect Councillor Gethin Glyn Williams as Chair for 2020/2021

RESOLVED to re-elect Councillor Gethin Williams as Chair of this Committee for the year 2020/21.

To elect Vice chair for 2020/21

To re-elect Councillor Eryl Jones Williams as Vice Chair for 2020/21

RESOLVED to re-elect Councillor Eryl Jones-Williams as Vice-chair of this Committee for 2020/21.

Apologies were received from Councillor Gareth Thomas (Cabinet Member – Economic Development), Councillor Louise Hughes, Councillor Brian Woolley (Arthog Community Council), Mr John Johnson (Barmouth and Cardigan Bay Sea Fisheries Association) and Llŷr B Jones (Assistant Head of Economy and Community Department)  

None to note

To confirm the minutes of the previous meeting of the Aberdyfi Consultative Committee held 22^nd October 2019

The Chair signed the minutes of the previous meeting of this Committee that was held on 22 October 2019, as a true record subject to correction:  5 (ch) Specific facility for jet skis – 'It was reported that jet skis did not bring any income to the harbour' > 'that registered jet skis did bring income to the harbour' and 8 (a) Barmouth Harbour Development Plan – 'A wish to draft a development plan was highlighted' > 'The need to draft a development plan was highlighted'.  

Matters arising from the minutes:

·         Barmouth Harbour Development Plan Taskforce
It was highlighted that work had not proceeded as every 'developmental' matter had been set aside as a result of the covid 19 crisis. It was added that priority would be given to re-opening for when people could visit. It was suggested that the Maritime Manager should ask the Assistant Head of Economy and Community Department about the way forward.

It was added that it was good practice to hold the Barmouth, Aberdyfi and Pwllheli Harbour Committees and that the Porthmadog Harbour Committee was the only statutory meeting in terms of legislation requirements. It was noted that if legislation enforced harbour development plans, the intention would be to ensure consistency across the four harbours (Aberdyfi, Barmouth, Porthmadog and Pwllheli).  A request was made for the Maritime Officer to look into the requirements of the Act that gives guidance that a harbour development plan was essential.                         

To submit a report by the Senior Harbours Officer.

To note and accept the report

Brigitte Evans (Barmouth Harbour Assistant) was welcomed to her first meeting. Officers and harbour staff were thanked for all their work in maintaining the service during an incredibly difficult year.

(a)          Senior Harbours Officer's Report

A report was presented by the Senior Harbours Officer giving a brief update on Harbour matters for the period ending March 2021 

Moorings

It was reported that there had been a significant reduction in the number of moorings as a result of restrictions associated with covid-19. It was noted that many vessel owners had chosen not to utilise their vessels in 2020 – a general pattern that was seen across Gwynedd Harbours.

Port Marine Safety Code

In response to a question regarding compliance with the code and whether this was something that was difficult to operate, it was noted that the safety aspects were the main challenges together with conducting risk assessments and an external audit.  It was added that the process of 'constructing' the code was one that was gradually developing. It was reported that a letter would be sent from the Service to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency having undertaken the annual external audit of the safety management system. 

In response to a question regarding the fishermen's pots being left on the harbour, it was noted that this was only a temporary arrangement and as the fishing season gets nearer the pots will be relocated.

Staffing Matters

It was reported that there had been a number of staff changes during the year and Mr Glyn Jones, Harbourmaster, had left to work with the Welsh Ambulance Service.   It was highlighted that Bergitte Evans and Jordan Hewlett had been appointed to undertake Harbour duties and they were continuing to be trained and developed. 

In response to a question regarding sufficient resources to cope with visitors to the area during the summer, it was noted that the Cabinet Member had highlighted concern about the situation and that the matter had been discussed in the Tourism Group, under the leadership of the Chief Executive.  Following further discussions with the Maritime Unit, and an effective agreed plan for the work, it was suggested that the staffing level would be sufficient for the Harbour and the beach. Staff from other departments will also be available to manage matters in the town. 

Financial Matters

The harbour budget was presented to highlight the current financial position up to the end of March 2021.  An overspend of £8,061 was estimated.

In response to a question regarding funding from Welsh Government to compensate for the reduction in income, it was reported that £4,500 had been received and included in the budget. It was noted that mooring fees would increase in line with inflation (2%), however, there would be no increase in launching, registration and re-registration fees. 

Barmouth Viaduct Repair Work

A presentation was given by Steve Richardson (Griffiths Engineering) regarding the repair work to be undertaken to Barmouth Viaduct over the next two years.   Reference was made to the work timeframe included  ...  view the full minutes text for item 6.

To consider matters arising

None to note

To note that the next meeting of the Barmouth Harbour Consultative Committee will be held on the 19^th of October 2021

It was noted that the next meeting was scheduled for 19 October 2021.  A request was made on behalf of the Cabinet Member to consider another date and time as Tuesday mornings clashed with Leadership Team meetings and therefore prevented the Cabinet Member from attending.  A request was made for Members to consider another convenient day and time.