Peel Ports’ Controversial Proposal Sparks Outrage
In a move that has sparked outrage among the boating community in Scotland, Peel Ports, the owner of Clydeport, is considering implementing a ‘conservancy fee’ for recreational vessels using the Clyde. The proposed fee, which could amount to £100 annually for boats between six to 24 meters, has been met with strong opposition from boaters, sailing clubs, and marine tourism advocates.
Boaters Speak Out Against the Proposal
At a recent meeting of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on Recreational Boating and Marine Tourism, members of the leisure boating community expressed their concerns about the proposed fee. Stuart McMillan MSP, who chairs the group, stated that the rationale for the charge does not seem justified, and Peel Ports’ lack of engagement with the boating community has only fueled frustration and anger.
Kenneth Gibson, MSP for Cunninghame North, emphasized the significant contribution of recreational boating to Scotland’s coastal communities and criticized the imposition of an unjustified fee on boaters. Similarly, Finlo Cottier, CEO of Royal Yachting Association Scotland, highlighted the unique characteristics of the Clyde and questioned the necessity of such a fee without clear benefits to the boating community.
Call for Government Intervention
Under the 1964 Harbours Act, the Scottish Government has the authority to intervene and potentially remove statutory powers from a harbor authority. Calls have been made for Holyrood to step in and regulate Peel Ports to ensure that leisure craft under 24 meters are exempt from port fees.
Eric Sweeney of Sailing Cruising Scotland emphasized the need for regulation of port authorities and expressed concerns about potential safety risks if boaters choose to deactivate location devices in response to the proposed fee. Boaters and marine advocates alike have labeled Peel Ports’ plan as outrageous and are urging the government to take action.
Peel Ports Responds
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for Peel Ports Clydeport stated that they are still in the early stages of exploring the possibility of a conservancy fee. They emphasized that no final decision has been made and that if a fee were to be implemented, a consultation process would be conducted to gather feedback from marine users.
Despite the controversy, Peel Ports reiterated their commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all users of the Firth of Clyde and the river. The debate over the proposed fee continues to unfold, with boaters and industry stakeholders closely monitoring the situation and advocating for a fair resolution.
