Langstone Harbour Board is happy to announce the successful acquisition of £162,000 in funding from Defra’s UK Seafood Fund, which will be invested in vital modifications to the port’s infrastructure, enhancing health and safety for commercial fishers. This funding will facilitate key improvements, including a 50-year life extension for the Hayling Island public slipway, the installation of a solar array, the addition of a quayside davit, and access improvements to existing quayside infrastructure.
The Hayling Island public slipway plays a crucial role in supporting the local fishing community. It is widely used by commercial fishers to launch their tenders, enabling them to reach their deepwater moorings. The planned improvements to the slipway will allow for the accommodation of larger commercial fishing vessels, which can be safely lifted out using the harbour's slipway trailer. This enhancement will greatly improve operational efficiency and safety for fishers operating in the harbour.
In addition to the slipway upgrade, a designated access gate will be established, providing commercial fishers with safe and convenient access to the quayside. This will facilitate the on/offloading of catch, gear, and stores, while the new quayside davit will support the self-recovery of smaller vessels to the yard. These developments are set to streamline daily operations for commercial fishers, reducing turnaround times and improving overall safety and productivity.
The installation of a solar array marks a significant step towards sustainable energy use within the harbour. Green energy will be readily available for fishers to wash down gear and carry out essential maintenance on their vessels, contributing to a more environmentally responsible working environment. In the medium term, this renewable energy source presents an exciting opportunity for the adoption of alternative propulsion methods, further advancing the harbour’s commitment to sustainability.
Harbour Master, Billy Johnson, commented on the funding award: “We are delighted to receive this substantial support from the UK Seafood Fund. These enhancements are not only vital for maintaining and improving our harbour’s infrastructure, but they also represent a significant investment in the future of our local fishing community.”
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