Bridlington harbour chiefs hail success of new leisure craft berths

The floating pontoons, close to the South Pier, allow boats to be accessed at all stages of the tide and have water and electricity pedestals so the vessels can be hooked up when berthed.

The £260,000 scheme, funded by Bridlington Harbour Commissioners and a £49,000 grant from the Holderness Coast Fishery Local Action Group (Flag), follows a successful trial two years ago.

The berths can accommodate a range of pleasure craft, from cabin cruisers to ocean-going yachts, and all have been taken.

Harbour Commissioners chairman George Traves said: “The floating pontoons are the biggest development of the harbour for many years. The huge demand for them has fully vindicated our decision to expand the 11-berth trial pontoon.

“I am delighted at the interest in the project – the new serviced berths have already been filled. As well as improved facilities for the vessels, the scheme helps to raise the profile and interest in Bridlington and the harbour.”

The project was the first to be completed using investment from Flag, which was set up a few months ago.

Coun Arthur Hodgson, the chairman of Flag, said: “This is the first project grant-aided by the Flag and we are pleased to support such an innovative and successful development.

“There has been strong interest in the work of the Flag and we have already been able to support a number of worthwhile schemes which will help both the fishing industry and the coastal towns. The programme is open to applications for funding until the end of 2013 and we are expecting continued interest in the fund.”

A Government planning inspector is meanwhile still considering whether a separate and controversial development of the harbour should form part of a council blueprint for the resort.

East Riding Council’s proposed Bridlington Area Action Plan includes the provision of a hotel, retail and leisure development on the harbour top, which opponents claim would spoil the harbour and draw trade away from the town centre.