Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Culture, Communities and Business Services setting out options for income adjustments.

The Committee considered the report of the Director of Culture, Communities and Business Services setting out a number of options for financial management which could impact upon the budget setting for 2020-2021.

As part of the discussion, Members noted that extensive research into the possible options and comparison with other authorities to ensure consistency had been conducted. Extensive work had been conducted with commercial operators who had provided data to inform the recommendations.

Members were aware that the options would be incorporated into the budget setting for 2020/21 to address the potential financial deficit but that no final decision was required at this stage on any of the fees, charges and proposals contained within the report.

In response to questions, Members heard that:

·         The annual deficit mentioned within section 1 of the report referred to the decreasing balance of the Revenue Reserve. Were the financial issues not addressed, the current rate of contributions meant that the position was unsustainable.

·         The seasonal nature of sailing meant that some dry stacks would likely be vacant at certain points within the year but that this was a matter of fact for all commercial operators.

·         The anticipated additional contributions from the proposals within the report would generate roughly £30,000 annually.

·         Communication of the final decision, to be taken by the River Hamble Harbour Board, on the income options and final budget for 2020/21 would be crucial. Members were supportive of this and agreed that key messages regarding fees and charges should be promoted widely to all stakeholders.

·         The proposed amounts were based upon analysis of several factors and were deemed reasonable based on that of other Harbours in the Solent. The figures proposed would also maintain a competitive offer.

RESOLVED

That the River Hamble Harbour Management Committee notes and supports the following options being taken forward for Board consideration with any increases being incorporated into next year’s budget:

(i)     To apply a flat rate charge for Harbour Dues in respect of all dry-stacked vessel berths for each berth per annum at a rate to be decided, enabling a flexible launching regime and ensuring that Harbour Dues are paid in respect of launches which are not currently captured.

The Management Committee were supportive of an indicative flat rate of £61.50 less 10% but were aware in agreeing this recommendation that the figure recommended to the Board could change incrementally if new data became available in advance of the Board meeting on 10 January 2020.

(ii)    To apply the following annual Harbour Authority mooring rates for permanently moored fishing vessels at Warsash:

§  <8m - £1000

§  >8m - <9.5m - £1100

§  >9.5m - £1200

(iii)   To increase daily launching charges, payable according to length overall and power as follows:

§  Under 6m and under 10hp – free;

§  Under 6m and over 10hp - £5 (formerly £4);

§  Over 6m and over 10hp - £8 (formerly £6).

                        And to increase Visitors’ Rates to the following:

§  Warsash Jetty

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