News / floating harbour
Boaters forced to move off dilapidated pontoons
Boaters living in what was once a mill pond have been dispersed around the docks after the central pontoon their vessels were moored to was found to be too dangerous for them to remain.
The residents of Bathurst Basin are now waiting for Bristol City Council to procure the repair contract needed.
It comes as new pontoons next to Capricorn Quay opposite the SS Great Britain continue to sit unused more than a year after they were installed at a cost to the council of £670,000.
is needed now More than ever
Some boats are currently moored against the walls of the Bathurst Basin while the pontoons are out of action – photo: Martin Booth
Lib Dem councillor Andrew Brown, chair of the Harbour Committee, told Bristol24/7: “Survey reports, following a routine inspection that took place in May this year, identified deterioration of the main central pontoon in Bathurst Basin was more rapid than previously thought and the decision was made to bring forward planned maintenance works.
“Over a period of ten days we worked with and supported the boat owners affected to temporarily relocate their vessels from Bathurst Basin to suitable moorings across the harbour to allow for the works to take place.
“The safety of boaters and harbour users is a priority for the Harbour Authority.
“We are grateful for the cooperation and understanding of the affected boaters and will continue to keep them informed of progress, advising of a timetable for the works as soon as this has been confirmed.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
Read next:
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
