The programme of dredging Carrickfergus Marina on the north shore of Belfast Lough has suffered delays, apparently due to operational reasons.
The original date for completion was this past Thursday 24 March.
Meanwhile, the status of dredging operations in the nearby harbour — which had been due to finish on 17 May — is also unclear.
Dredging was planned for these areas as they had been deemed to be below the minimum depths as per hydrographic surveys.
Mid and East Antrim Council had previously warned that the above dates were subject to movement based on contractual changes and effects of weather.
The largest number of boats affected are those berthed in Carrickfergus, which has a capacity of 300, and berth holders were given various options for the period of dredging.
From a recent communication from Carrickfergus Marina, it’s understood that the updated programme has now an estimated completion date of mid-May.
It also appears that Carrickfergus Marina has told berth-holders that the local authority will continue to pay the extra cost of relocation to Bangor.
In addition, a select number of berth-holders currently in Bangor Marina will be offered the opportunity to return to Carrickfergus Marina before the end of the dredge.
Any berth-holder who returns will avail of a 30% discount on their monthly payments to Carrickfergus Marina but will have restricted access to their vessel. Interested berth-holders are advised to contact [email protected] or ring the Marina Reception as soon as possible.
