Boat users set for increase in harbour fees

Winter mooring fees at West Bay (pictured) and Lyme Regis would remain unchanged

Boat users of three harbours in Dorset could face higher fees, according to a report.

Dorset Council is looking to implement a minimum 3.4% increase to charges at Bridport, Lyme Regis and Weymouth harbours, although some exceptions have been made.

The proposed changes, outlined in the report to the Harbours Advisory Committee, aim to keep the facilities financially sustainable while remaining competitive with other ports.

Winter mooring fees at West Bay and Lyme Regis would remain unchanged and, following feedback, boat lifting charges would also stay the same.

Launch fees at West Bay and Lyme Regis (pictured) are set to rise by 20%

If the proposals are accepted, some charges would increase above inflation, including launch and recovery fees at West Bay and Lyme Regis, which are set to rise by 20% to bring them closer to rates at other harbours.

Annual and summer vessel storage would also increase by £30 a metre, though customers would receive perks such as free slipway season tickets and discounts on related services.

In Weymouth, visiting recreational vessels would escape further hikes after three years of increases – 11.5% in 2022, 10% in 2023 and 7% in 2024 – and overnight stay charges would remain unchanged.

Fishermen's storage fees would rise significantly, from £2.15 to £5 per pallet a month, as the council looks to align charges with other ports where, according to the report, similar facilities cost much more.

The council says the changes are necessary to maintain safe, sustainable harbours and fund future investment.

Its five-year business plan includes major projects such as £1.5m earmarked for Weymouth in 2026/27 which includes ongoing repairs to harbour walls.

The proposals will go before cabinet, with final approval expected in the new year.