Agenda item

To submit a report by the Harbourmaster.

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

 

-        In terms of navigation matters he noted that the channel changed often and was monitored throughout the season so as to make it possible to give warnings to mariners.

-        He explained that Trinity House had been to inspect and he noted that local contractors had completed the maintenance work on the navigation aids as asked.

-        In relation to action points, he noted that the end of Covid restrictions had resulted in a very busy Summer but the additional wardens were a big help.

-        He added that most of the visitors were respectful, however a few disrespectful experiences were recorded. He additionally noted that there was an increase in litter being left around the harbour and the beach.

-        He explained that there was an immense increase in Stand-up Paddleboards on the beach, and the wardens managed to advise the users on sea safety and to keep the channel clear.

-        He explained all the maintenance work that had taken place, for instance the cabins and the patrol boat.

 

 

The Maritime Manager added the following:

 

-        That recruiting for seasonal work was challenging and it was asked for the members to advertise any jobs within their wards or communities.

-        As a result of verbal abuse, the service had invested in CCTV cameras for staff to wear.

-        In order to deal with litter, mostly as a result of visitors crabbing, he noted that collaboration was needed with the local shops that sell the equipment and to locate bins for plastic waste around the harbour.

-        He explained the quay wall situation and noted he understood the Committee’s frustrations as this had been a discussion point for years. However, he noted that the work had been re-tendered and that applications were being assessed by the YGC department.

-        He added that there would be communication with the members following the decision on the contract winners.

 

The information below was reported regarding the Picnic Island situation from an Outward Bound Trust representative:

 

-        It was noted that by the next committee a bridge would be in place or on its way. Network Rail were thanked for their support whilst the work was ongoing.

-        It was explained that local partners and Gwynedd Council were assessing the foundations in November and then the process of removing the old structure and replacing with a new one would commence.

-        In relation to costs, the Maritime Manager noted that the costs of steel for example had increased substantially and it was hoped that a formal tender would come within the budget.

 

 

 

During the discussion, the following observations were made by members:

 

-        It was questioned if there was a cost for the harbours service to deal with animal remains that get washed in by the sea.

-        It was expressed that many positive things had taken place in the area over the summer but not the litter. Members reiterated that a discussion with shops needed to start and a system to borrow equipment was suggested for return after it had been used.

-        It was added that the Community Council received complaints regarding litter and that additional bins had been discussed.

-        The staff were thanked for their work during the very busy year, a member reiterated a special thanks to Tywyn Beach Officer for his work engaging with visitors.

-        Assurance was asked for in terms of quick information being available regarding the quay wall as it was going to create big problems for the businesses on the quay. It was added that many emails had currently arrived regarding the disruption to the sailing club.

-        It was noted that it was important that the work on the quay wall was completed as soon as possible despite the complaints and difficulties as it needed to be done urgently.

-        It was suggested that a public relations campaign was needed to keep residents up to date with the phases and the work; once the contract was set up this needed to start.

-        The possibility of holding a special meeting once the decision on contractors is made was mentioned.

 

 

In response, the Maritime Manager noted the following points:

 

-        That the cost to deal with animal remains varied and if it was not possible to take a vehicle close to it, it would be buried there and then. He explained that the cost comes from the beaches budget and not from the harbour’s as most of the remains appear on the beach.

-        They did not foresee any financial loss for any organisations working on the quay and there was assurance that businesses would remain open throughout the essential work.

-        It was noted that there would be contact between the site manager of the quay gate and the harbour users for any information. It was added that the maritime staff would be at hand and would facilitate the ability to receive further information.

-        It was explained that it would not be possible to arrange a formal meeting of the Committee to discuss the outcome of the tender of the quay wall. However, an informal meeting for a discussion was suggested.