Preferred Developer selected for Cowes Outer Harbour Project
The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) has today confirmed Sutton Harbour Holdings Plc as the preferred bidder in the process to identify a developer and operator for the new Outer Harbour development at East Cowes, on the Isle of Wight.
The development is a key part of the regeneration of East Cowes, which will provide the opportunity to improve the links between East Cowes and West Cowes and open up of the waterfront to enhance East Cowes’ status as a gateway, boosting tourism in the area. The plans include a new outer breakwater and a marina of 300 berths with separate provision for visitors and events. This is a joint project between SEEDA, Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) and The Crown Estate.
Cowes Harbour Master, Stuart McIntosh commented: “This is a major milestone for this project that will finally make Cowes a truly sheltered and safe harbour. The Commissioners, the yachting and local business communities consider this development as essential to ensuring the long-term prosperity of the harbour and the local economy. I therefore hope that the next milestone, and final required consent, will be the planning committee granting approval of full planning consent next week.”
Film star Valerie joins Cowes Harbour Authority in November
In another exciting move, the new pilot boat for Cowes Harbour Authority named Valerie, enters service in early November under the agreement with the new operator, Solent and Blue Line Cruises.
Solent and Blue Line Cruises acquired the Nelson 40 ‘V Class’ pilot boat specifically for this new contract. Valerie commenced her pilot boat service in Harwich and was then purchased by Portland Harbour Authority and finally starred in the recent film, “The Boat that Rocked” that tells the story of the famous pirate radio station Radio Caroline.
Solent and Blue Line Cruises have completed a major refit of the vessel including new engines, wiring and most major systems on the vessel together with a smart new livery to ensure that she is fully ‘fit for purpose.’
The new arrival unfortunately brings to an end the long-standing arrangement with Thomas Brothers who have provided a very reliable pilot boat service over the years.
Feedback and contact
Don’t forget that Cowes Harbour Commission is always happy to gain feedback on its services and on the issues it is tackling on your behalf. If you want to talk to the Harbour Master, Capt. Stuart McIntosh or Rod Hodgson, the Deputy HM, please feel free to call in to our charmingly refurbished Harbour Office on Town Quay, or phone and make an appointment on Tel: 01983 293 952, or email chc@cowes.co.uk.
You can also keep up to date with the news by visiting the recently launched new-look website at: http://www.cowesharbourcommission.co.uk.
The website is being updated with new information on a regular basis and is a useful resource for residents and visitors alike. For example, we have just introduced the all-important weather information for Solent sailors on a new weather page.
