IT WAS recently reported in The Cornishman that the harbour commissioners were proposing to close the access to Sandy Cove in Newlyn, because of the amount of fly-tipping taking place and other rubbish being left in the area.
It was said that people were abusing the privilege of being able to park and either admire the view or unload their bicycles to continue on the cycle path.
Many residents and visitors have contacted the harbour office, not only to express their disgust at these actions, but to ask the commissioners to reconsider their proposals.
As a result, the harbour commissioners have decided to go ahead with the arrangements for a barrier – but to delay the installation in the hope that the situation will improve.
The commissioners are encouraged to have recently received information at the office concerning the tipping of rubbish, and this will be followed through with the relevant authorities.
The commissioners have also recently revised the car parking charges and – although they have slightly increased for stays of over two hours – they have reduced short-term charges so motorists can park for up to two hours at a reasonable rate and shop in Newlyn.
There has been criticism of the enforcement of parking regulations around the Mission area, the harbour administration block and the fish market.
Unfortunately, these actions have been necessary because inconsiderate parking, and those parking to have a drink in local hostelries and then finding themselves unable to move their vehicles have caused major disruption to the smooth operations of the harbour.
Fish is landed both seaside and roadside in to the market and fishermen need 24-hour access.
Likewise, after fish has been sold it has to be removed and vehicles left obstructing the doors prohibit this. Parking outside the Mission causes problems for service vehicles to pass on to the quays, especially fuel tankers.
If they are delayed customers are charged an additional premium.
Unauthorised parking at the rear of the harbour administration block affects tenants' use of these reserved places.
UNDER the Newlyn Pier and Harbour Revision (Constitution) Order 2010, the commissioners were duty bound to set up an advisory body which they must consult on all matters substantially affecting the harbour.
This body has now been constituted, and held its first meeting under the chairmanship of Mr Joe Clive, with the Rev Julyan Drew being elected as vice-chairman.
MAJOR maintenance projects currently under way in the harbour include concrete repairs to the pile heads and beams under the Mary Williams Pier.
Built in 1978, a few of the beams are showing signs of concrete damage and need to be repaired to avoid major future problems. Over the course of the last 30 years or so, the wind blowing under the quay has blown salt onto the concrete – which it has penetrated – and caused the reinforcing steel to rust and splay the concrete; a common problem in the marine environment.
article copyright THE CORNISHMAN