It’s a very merry Christmas for Scotland’s recreational boating community as Peel Ports Clydeport’s plans to introduce fees for leisure craft will no longer progress.
RYA Scotland has welcomed the change of tack regarding the proposed conservancy fee for leisure boaters in the Clydeport area, following months of engagement with the port and its operators.
Concerns had been raised that the fee would restrict freedoms to sail in Scottish waters, harm marine tourism and impact small coastal communities.
Last week, Alex McIntosh, Clydeport’s head of marine shared with RYA Scotland that “currently, Clydeport does not intend to progress consultation with the wider community regarding conservancy fees for individual vessel owners, as the introduction of such fees will not be taken forward at this time”.
McIntosh added: “A comprehensive review is still underway to assess how the waterways are being used and by whom, to ensure Clydeport can manage them effectively and efficiently for the benefit of all port users.
“Positive engagement with industry bodies has taken place throughout the year, and this collaborative approach will continue as we work to develop a strong framework for ongoing engagement and communication.”
RYA Scotland says it will continue to engage with Clydeport to ensure that interactions between the port and the recreational boaters, volunteer clubs and organisations it represents “are effective and proportionate”.
