11 May PHC Statement following UK Prime Minister update on 10 May
Since the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson addressed the nation yesterday (Sunday 10th May 2020), we have received a high number of calls from members of the public keen to get back out on the water. We are working through the detail of yesterday’s update to provide further clarity on how it affects leisure boating. We will update our stakeholders fully, as soon as we can.
Captain Brian Murphy, Harbour Master, Poole Harbour Commissioners said “Now that the government has issued further detail from yesterday’s update, we will be looking to provide further clarity on how the update affects leisure boating as soon possible. We are working through the detail with the South Coast Harbour Masters Association, British Ports Association, RYA, British Marine and the UK Government to clarify what the latest announcement means for the Port of Poole, Poole Harbour, and our marine operations and policies.”
Guidance expected this week for water sports in England
Recreational sailing has not been specifically mentioned in the recovery strategy. However, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport are expected to issue guidance later this week that should include advice on water sports in England. As part of our continued commitment to the health, safety and welfare of our workforce, harbour users and their families, PHC will continue to follow government guidance and the advice of governing bodies and authorities, to ensure correct measures are put in place to protect our stakeholders.
As the country moves toward an ease in lockdown, there has been an understandable interest from many harbour users keen to get back out on to the water. Jim Stewart, CEO, Poole Harbour Commissioners said “Government advice states that leisure activities are allowed provided you do not meet up with more than one other person from outside your household and that you maintain a 2 metre distance from people outside your household. Poole Harbour Commissioners thank our harbour users for their understanding and patience and we will advise them if there is any further specific advice relating to marine leisure.”
A statement from the RNLI
A statement from the RNLI issued today stipulated “At present, there are no RNLI lifeguards on beaches and although our volunteer lifeboat crews are fully operational, should they be needed, it is important that anyone visiting the coast understands the risk and takes the necessary steps to keep themselves safe. This will also help to reduce the demands placed on our lifeboat crews and other emergency services including HM Coastguard.”
The full statement from the RNLI and their latest safety advice for anyone planning to visit the coast can be found here.