by Trevor Bevins, Local Democracy Reporting Service
Harbour users across Dorset are facing a rise in fees next year as Dorset Council looks to implement a minimum 3.4% increase across Bridport, Lyme Regis and Weymouth harbours.
The proposed changes, outlined in a report to the Harbours Advisory Committee this week (Wed Dec 03), aims to keep the facilities financially sustainable while remaining competitive with other ports.
Dorset Council says the increase is in line with inflation and will apply to most charges, though some exceptions have been made following customer feedback and a benchmarking exercises.
Winter mooring fees at West Bay and Lyme Regis will remain unchanged to encourage uptake, while boat lifting charges will also stay the same after concerns they were already high about the costs.
Some services will see above inflation rises, if the proposals are accepted: Launch and recovery fees at West Bay and Lyme Regis are set to rise by 20% to bring them closer to rates at other harbours; annual and summer vessel storage will increase by £30 per metre, though customers will receive perks such as free slipway season tickets and discounts on related services.
In Weymouth, visiting recreational vessels will escape further hikes after three years of steep increases – 11.5% in 2022, 10% in 2023 and 7% in 2024 – leaving overnight stay charges unchanged. But fishermen’s storage fees will rise significantly, from £2.15 to £5 per pallet per month, as the council looks to align charges with other ports where similar facilities cost much more, according to a report.
The council argues the changes are necessary to maintain safe, sustainable harbours and fund future investment.
A five-year business plan includes major projects such as £1.5 million earmarked for Weymouth in 2026/27 which includes ongoing repairs to harbour walls.
The proposals will need to go before Cabinet, with final approval expected early in the new year.
