News - 27/02/18

In accordance with the Port Marine Safety Code, Cowes Harbour has a “Designated Person” to provide independent assurance on the operation and effectiveness of CHC’s Marine Safety Management System and to ensure compliance with the Code. The Designated Person (DP) is duty bound to carry out regular audits of the Safety Management System and report their independent findings directly to the Board of Commissioners, the Duty Holders, who have overall responsibility for safety in Cowes Harbour. 

Cowes Harbour Commission’s DP, Capt. Peter Jackson (RN), has just retired from his position after 10 years in the role. Following a public advertisement and interview process, CHC has appointed Capt. Martin Phipps MBE as Peter’s replacement. 

Peter commented: “I am delighted to see Martin Phipps take over from me, and thank the CHC team for all their support over the last 10 years.” 

Captain Martin Phipps, previously Harbour Master at the Port of Southampton, has recently retired after 28 years at the port and seven years as Harbour Master. Capt. Phipps, who first went to sea at the age of 16, began work in Southampton as a Marine Pilot in 1990 and became Harbour Master in 2011, leading a team of 110 marine staff including pilots, vessel traffic service personnel, hydrographers and berthing officers. He was recently recognised in the New Year’s Honours list when he was awarded an MBE for services to UK exports.

Cowes Harbour Master Capt. Stuart McIntosh said: “Peter has been an immense asset to CHC during his time as Designated Person and will be a hard act to follow. He has been an integral part of the safety management for Cowes Harbour since the introduction of the Port Marine Safety Code and has provided sound advice to CHC staff and Commissioners alike. Peter was an avid supporter of the Small Craft Channel and many stakeholder benefits such as the training pontoon in the Folly Reach. We would like to give him our sincere thanks, and we look forward to his continuing contribution to the harbour as a member of the Advisory Committee. I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Martin to the CHC team and consider the harbour and the Commission are very fortunate to have him onboard, with his vast experience and background knowledge of safety management in the Solent.”

Photo L-R: David Riley CHC Chairman, Capt. Peter Jackson (RN) Designated Person, Capt. Stuart McIntosh Harbour Master