Cowes Harbour Commission Annual Report 2017-2018 | Page 5

I am pleased to provide a summary report on another very busy year for the Cowes Harbour Commission team. CHC
is very fortunate with our team, from our Board of Commissioners with their extensive background of professional
experience, combined with CHC’s management and staff. We are all committed to delivering quality customer and
stakeholder focussed services. I would also like to acknowledge and thank all harbour and Solent stakeholders for
their continued support in assisting the Commission team in our efforts to deliver CHC’s aims and objectives for Cowes
Harbour’s successful long-term future.
CHC’s Strategic Plan for 2016 to 2021 provides the framework and guidance for all CHC’s decisions. In this Annual
Report, we have provided a summary update on CHC’s progress, against our strategic objectives and target dates.
I have picked six issues to highlight in my summary, which I believe are and will continue to be my top priorities and
the main issues for the Commission in 2018.
1. Future of Shipbuilding and Marine Employment
Vital for the future harbour and Island economy
■ The various commercial, planning and consent issues over the last 12 months on the three current and interlinked
strategic marine employment sites, of Venture Quays, Medina Yard and Kingston Marine Park have resulted in the
situation where the Island is at risk of losing its vital shipbuilding industry and jobs. This issue and its successful
resolution has been and remains CHC’s top priority.
■ Obtaining certainty from Homes England (formerly Homes and Communities Agency) and their development partner
on the investment and delivery of the East Cowes regeneration project, including Victoria Quay marina, and the
funding contribution for the harbour infrastructure works, remains a CHC priority.
■ The Victoria Quay marina and East Cowes developments are directly linked with the current interim and long-term
options for maintaining shipbuilding on the Island. See our chapter on “Port & Harbour Development” (pages 18-22)
for further details.
2. Chain Ferry and Safety
Introduction
■ Safety of the harbour will always remain CHC’s overriding priority and statutory duty.
■ CHC shares the concerns and frustrations surrounding the ongoing issues with the Isle of Wight Council’s new fl oating
bridge. CHC’s priority, statutory responsibility and commitment is safety of navigation and the restoration of the
previous chain clearance depths at all stages of the tide.
■ CHC will continue to work with the Council to achieve resolution of the technical, operating and service issues. CHC
is, however, very aware of our overriding safety and statutory responsibilities. Read also the chapter on “Safety &
Security” (pages 14-17).
© Nick Edwards
Annual Report 2017 - 2018
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