Agenda item

To discuss the Harbourmasters report.

To accept the contents of the report and to note the observations.

To accept the contents of the report and to note the observations.

The report was presented by the Harbourmaster and he noted the main points on the action points as follows:  

-        It was noted that staff had worked throughout the pandemic period and had been extremely busy.  It was added that challenges had arisen in ensuring that everyone understood the dangers of the Estuary. 

-        A great deal of work had been undertaken to secure people's safety by ensuring social distancing and signage were erected, it was added that the department had provided appropriate materials in terms of PPE to staff.

-        An offer was made to distribute a digital version of the harbour chart to see the AEC locations once there is a final version.

-        An overview was given of the various maintenance work that had taken place over the period. 

-        It was noted that there was a joint working partnership with Outward Bound and they also ran a project.

-        In relation to Canolfan Dyfi, it was noted that there were no changes, however, minor alterations had been made in the centre in order to meet with the requirements.

-        It was noted that the Department was awaiting news about relaxing the restrictions as there were applications from PWC Gwynedd, Jetski Club etc. regarding staging events.

During the discussion the following observations were made:

-        The Harbourmaster was thanked for all his work.

-        It was asked if there was a sand removal scheme this year.

-        A member added that not much sand had accumulated this year as the wind had moved it back, he continued to emphasise the importance of the quay wall as it had been damaged.

-        Thanks were extended for the plans on the slipway as launching from Church Bay had been frustrating.

-        It was asked what were the plans to treat the wall near the old lifeboat slipway as there was a prominent crack to be seen. 

-        It was asked if there were any plans to clear the promenade and the car park soon.

-        The attention of the officers was drawn to the poor condition of the railings between the car park and the promenade, it was asked if this was a matter for the harbour or another department.

In response, the Harbourmaster noted the following:

-        That there were currently no plans to remove sand as it was not a priority, however, the situation would be reviewed if it worsens. It was added that finance had gone to protect the quay wall and there was a lack of funding.

-        He added that the river was moving and sand was moving – as had occurred in the past.

-        It was noted that the YGC department managed the quay renovation work on the Council's behalf and the condition continued to be monitored. He added that this had gone out to tender once more.

-        Regarding the crack in the wall, he noted that it was the YGC department who inspected these every three months and they were responsible for maintenance. 

-        The clearance work on the promenade and the car park would happen fairly soon.

-        It was noted that the railings would be treated when finance was available, however, in the meantime this will be monitored to ensure that the situation does not get any worse.