The South Hams Salcombe Harbour Board meeting on 12 June 2024 covered several key topics, including a business proposal for expanding a yawl vessel business, health and safety updates, the Harbour Master’s report, marine decarbonisation efforts, water quality, and feedback from harbour community forums.

Yawl Vessel Business Proposal

Mr Tristan Stone presented a proposal to expand his yawl vessel business within the harbour. He highlighted the need for additional space and expressed his willingness to assume financial and risk responsibilities. The Board acknowledged the potential economic benefits and agreed to have the Harbour Master work through the proposal's details with Mr Stone.

Health and Safety Updates

The Harbour Master introduced a new initiative to provide regular health and safety updates at every meeting. This initiative was well-received by the Board members, who appreciated the focus on embedding a stronger health and safety culture within the Harbour Authority.

Harbour Master’s Report

The Harbour Master provided an update on various issues affecting the harbour, including service performance, major projects, and other relevant matters. Key points discussed included:

• The upcoming draft of the Five Year Strategic Business Plan, which will be circulated for feedback.
• The success of fully occupied commercial units.
• Challenges faced during the winter maintenance programme due to inclement weather, causing a two-week delay in the vessel re-launch schedule.
• The significant scope of the Harbour Depot project.
• Efforts to develop existing talent within the Harbour Authority workforce.
• The possibility of adding projects to the Council’s Capital Programme.
• Positive feedback from a recent Internal Audit, which the Harbour Authority was proud of.

Marine Decarbonisation Presentation

The Marine Projects Officer presented on marine decarbonisation activities, including the 'Electric Seaway' rapid charger project. Key points included:

• Plans for a feasibility sea trial to reduce carbon emissions through the Salcombe Water Taxi.
• The need for planning permission and community consultation for the siting of a battery cabinet.
• Rapid advancements in battery charging technology and the importance of adequate charging provision for electric boat visitors.
• Progress on the Harbour Carbon Footprint Study.
• The trailblazing role of the Marine Projects Officer, with other local authorities looking to create similar positions.

Water Quality Update

The Chairman noted that further information was needed before reconvening the Working Group on water quality. Final recommendations are expected to be presented at the next formal Board meeting.

Harbour Workshop: Project Update

The Harbour Workshop project is nearing completion, with an imminent officer meeting to review the project's duration and lessons learned. The Board expressed gratitude to all officers involved, acknowledging the project's complexity.

Feedback from Harbour Community Forums

Board members provided updates from various harbour community forums:

• The Salcombe Kingsbridge Estuary Conservation Forum (SKECF) will provide updates after its next meeting.
• The South Devon & Channel Shellfishermen are generally content.
• The Kingsbridge and Salcombe Marine Business Forum will circulate an update outside the meeting.
• The Kingsbridge Estuary Boat Club (KEBC) has invited the Harbour Master to its next meeting.

For more details, refer to the Minutes - 18 March 2024.