Proposed mooring costs rise 'inequitable'

A petition from leisure boat owners raises objections to proposed changes to marina fees

Leisure boat owners say a planned increase in mooring fees is "inequitable".

A petition to Deputy Peter Roffey, president of the States Trading Supervisory Board (STSB), says a rise in fees will be to the "long-term detriment" of those who work in the local marine industry.

Proposed changes to leisure marina fees were reviewed after concerns raised by boat owners, trade associations, and yacht clubs.

The States of Guernsey has been invited to comment.

Feedback to a proposed 3% increase for 2025 led the STSB to recommend a "similarly modest" increase for 2026, to alleviate concerns about the future affordability of moorings.

But leisure boat owners are still objecting to the increase.

The petition says: "The facilities provided by Guernsey Harbours to local leisure berth holders fall well short of facilities available in other ports".

It claims the proposed increases are helping to fund losses incurred at Guernsey Airport.

"Harbour users are paying more than the relevant costs of running the harbours to support the airport," it says.