MEETING BETWEEN REPRESENTATIVES OF THE POOLE YACHTING ASSOCIATION AND POOLE HARBOUR COMMISSIONERS AT 7.00 PM ON TUESDAY 20 TH NOVEMBER 2012 AT THE ROYAL MOTOR YACHT CLUB Present: Richard Lacey Poole Harbour Commissioners Jim Stewart Brian Murphy Jacky Hardy Sally Davis Paul Harris Sally Jeans Colin Stewart Lilliput Sailing Club Laurie Thornton-Grimes Poole Yacht Club Barry Rolfe Dick Linford Martin Pearson Martin Pate William Bird Mark Jamieson Ron Gentle PYRA Peter Stanaway Rockley Cruising Club Allen Wilkinson Redclyffe Yacht Club 1. Election of Chairman Richard Lacey was elected Chairman for the meeting. 2. Apologies Apologies were received from Charles Cunningham, Gareth Yeoman, Peter Clark & James Sydenham. 3. Minutes of last meeting The minutes of the meeting held on the 12 th April 2012 were approved and noted. 4. Matters Arising There were no matters arising. 5. Harbour Master s Report Safety Record Brian Murphy reported that during the season from 1 st April to 30 th September 2012, there were 100 reported navigational incidents and 6 minor oil pollution incidents. This compares to 114 and 14 in 2011 and 123 and 10 in 2010 during the same periods.
-2- He further reported that the majority of incidents are due to speed and wash with some near misses and minor collisions. All incidents are investigated and action taken accordingly, either by verbal education from Patrol Officers or a written warning from the Harbour Master. In some cases where there is sufficient evidence then prosecution proceedings will commence. Brian Murphy advised that a generic incident report form has been produced and is available to download from the website. This form was circulated at the meeting. Prosecutions Brian Murphy advised that following the last meeting in April, two successful prosecutions have been achieved. He further advised that the cases were as follows:- Running a red bridge light whilst on a mobile phone - fine 265, with costs of 150 and Victim Surcharge Scheme of 15 Speeding fine 150, with costs of 500 and Victim Surcharge Scheme of 15. Brian Murphy reported that one case is still outstanding from last year, this prosecution is for causing excessive wash in the Backwater Channel. Harbour Revision Order Brian Murphy confirmed that have finally received approval regarding the HRO. He confirmed that this now allows unlimited borrowing powers, gives the Harbour Master powers of general direction and helps to impose restrictions for parking on the port. Two Bridge Operation Brian Murphy advised that with the completion of the second bridge, the two bridge operation is now up and running and that the new winter timetable is now in effect. Brian Murphy advised that there are to be improvements to short term berths between the bridges and IALA lights. Brian Murphy advised that the Bridges Operating Board continues to monitor the two bridges going forward. Brian Murphy reported that CCTV in Harbour Control allows Harbour Control to see past the Twin Sails Bridge into Holes Bay. He further reported that the CCTV can see as far as Bell Buoy if necessary and towards Backwater Channel. Brian Murphy advised that although Bridge Controllers can see traffic waiting at both bridges it is still advisable that the waiting vessel contact Bridge Control by calling Poole Bridge on channel 12. Royal Marines Brian Murphy confirmed that he had now approved helicopter operations adjacent to the Wareham Channel and that a VHF navigation warning would be broadcast informing mariners that the activity is taking place.
-3- Kite Surfing At the last meeting Brian Murphy advised of the progress in working with the kitesurfing community in order that this extreme sport can be safely managed. Brian Murphy confirmed that this has so far proved successful with the training schools taking a proactive role in ensuring safety standards are maintained certainly within their remit. It was mentioned previously that a no fly zone was being considered to keep kitesurfers from surfing too close to the seawall and road traffic. Brian Murphy confirmed that a 50m zone is now in place and currently enforced by a LNTM. Brian Murphy advised that there have been no reportable incidents regarding this sport since the last meeting other than a report of dangerous behaviour which was surfing at speed through moorings. He further advised that this was dealt with by passing the message to the local kite surfing community, through the training schools, that this behaviour is not acceptable. This was also posted on the facebook and Twitter. Brian Murphy confirmed that the markers for the PW and Waterski areas have been replaced to improve visibility of the areas for all Harbour users. Harbour Monitoring Improvements Brian Murphy confirmed that are soon to install; Improved radar and AIS coverage to include from Bell Buoy to Bar Buoy and beyond. 3D VTS Vessel monitoring equipment A short video was shown demonstrating the quality and capabilities of the 3D VTS equipment. Charges Brian Murphy confirmed that Harbour Dues will increase by July RPI of 3.2%. Brian Murphy also confirmed that all other charges would increase by RPI of 3.2%. He further confirmed that the Crown Estate charge will increase by Oct RPI and be rounded to nearest pound. Navigational Safety Management Plan & Policies Brian Murphy confirmed that the updated Navigational Safety Management Plan has now been approved by the Board and that the plan is now on the website. Brian Murphy also confirmed that regular audits are carried out to ensure that the PMSC is adhered to.
-4-6. Chief Executive s Update Jim Stewart confirmed that Poole Harbour Commissioners are consulting closely with Dorset Police following concerns over the closure of the marine unit. He advised that no decision has yet been made but discussions regarding supplying vessels for patrols would be in our interests to help prevent criminal activity in the Harbour. Jim Stewart confirmed that Assistant Chief Constable James Vaughn would be the guest speaker at the Open Evening in November. 7. Draft Port Master Plan Jim Stewart advised that Government had asked every major port to produce a Master Plan for the next 25 30 years. The Chief Executive reported that have gone through a lengthy consultation period and had received dozens of responses. He further reported that up to 60 presentations and meetings had taken place. He further advised that would be looking at various options which would include new quays, deepening existing quays and creating a marine centre. The Chief Executive advised that were looking at two options for the Marine Centre. He further advised that it was envisaged that the final Port Master Plan could be completed by January 2013. The Chief Executive advised that a further option could be to provide lift out facilities which could be incorporated on the Port Estate. He further advised that would be working with Poole Tourism to attract major events to Poole. The Chief Executive reported that there would be an awareness centre which would involve an environmental education facility. 8. Any Other Business Ron Gentle asked that Local Notice to Mariners sent by email have a subject, title and number. William Bird asked if patrols could include the Middle Ship Channel, Stakes to Hamish buoys. Brian Murphy requested that the PYA generic risk assessment be reviewed and forwarded to the Harbour Office. Brian Murphy advised that risk assessment software had been procured. Brian Murphy advised that consultations were on going regarding the lower age limit for jet skiers. This consultation would be opened to all stakeholders. Following the consultation a Local Notice to Mariners will be issued outlining the requirements for obtaining a permit.
-5- Barry Rolfe requested details regarding the three new Commissioners, which was given at the meeting. Jim Stewart confirmed that all three gentlemen will be introduced at the Annual Open Evening. 9. Next Meeting To be advised Meeting finished 8.30 p.m.