Latest Bembridge Harbour Report

Since we last reported, Bembridge Harbour Trust (BHT) has been working hard to try and purchase Bembridge Harbour, unfortunately so far without success. BHT, a registered charity, of which SPS is a founder member, was set up to buy Bembridge Harbour should the opportunity arise and to hold it in perpetuity for the benefit of the local communities. It is supported strongly by the local community. The Harbour was placed on the market by its owner, the Bembridge Harbour Improvements Company, earlier in the year. Since then the Trustees of BHT have made three offers, all of which have been turned down because they were “too low”. This has been frustrating for the Trustees because, apart from the first bid, the subsequent offers, which have included not only the harbour itself but certain sites around the harbour, have been at the invitation of the selling agents. As reported at the AGM of the Trust held in August, the Chairman Donald Biddle said that the size of the bids had been supported by independent professional valuations, so are certainly realistic. However, he said that a major consideration, and one that was most difficult to put a figure on, is the significant extra cost of around £750,000 which is required for works to put right years of neglect. In particular, this refers to dredging, which had not taken place for very many years, and some pontoon repair work, both of which are now becoming seriously urgent. The Trust continues to seek ways to break the stale-mate with the vendor. If anybody would like a copy of the Trusts’ Annual Report or would like to know about individual membership opportunities, which are always welcome, or feel that they might be able to help the Trustees in any way, please contact Trustee, Michael MacInnes on michael.macinnes@btinternet.com Michael MacInnes For Bembridge Harbour Trust – October 2010