Moves to cut number of derelict boats in harbours

Moves are being made to free harbours around the Manx coast from derelict and abandoned boats.

The Department of Infrastructure (DOI) said it was taking steps to identify "at risk" vessels at an early stage before working with the owners to "find practical solutions".

The DOI has removed and disposed of almost 70 boats over the past three years.

Working with owners to take action to repair or remove the vessels before they became a hazard was part of a plan to keep harbours "safe, clean and well managed", the department said.

The risks posed by derelict boats included "sinking, obstruction and potential pollution".

The campaign has seen the government contact and engage with owners at an early stage and work with them to find a solution, avoiding "lengthy, bureaucratic procedures".

The initiative has also seen those behind in harbour dues contacted to allow for "earlier conversations about the future of their boats".

The department said the island's boat registration system enabled owners to be traced more quickly than in the UK, which sped up the engagement process and reduced enforcement complications.

Deputy harbour master Gary Lewin said the department's "first approach is always to talk" as most issues could be "resolved by working with owners early, long before a boat becomes a hazard".

The campaign was about "being proactive, avoiding unnecessary costs, and ensuring our harbours remain safe and attractive places for everyone who uses them", he added.

Under the scheme, boats removed by the department using its powers under the Harbours Act 2010 would be disposed of in line with environmental best practice.

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