Deputies pitch mooring fees compromise to GBA

States’ Trading Supervisory Board’s proposals, unveiled earlier this autumn, proposed that the cost of a marina berth would rise by between 12% and 22% above inflation from April 2024, adding about £400 to the annual charge for a medium-sized boat.

A number of the group met the Guernsey Boatowners’ Association and secured agreement that it would accept a 10% across-the-board increase in fees, slightly more than the current rate of inflation at 7%.

The deputies have taken the unusual step in lodging a motion to annul regulations which have recently been signed by the States’ Trading Supervisory Board and are due to be laid before the Assembly next week, where they would effectively be confirmed by States members.

The deputies said in STSB’s plans, mooring fees would increase by between 17% and 45%, depending on the size of the vessel.

‘While the ports need funding, an increase of this size in one go may drive boatowners to quit, especially as it is planned to be the first of three years of substantial, above-inflation increases,’ said Deputy John Dyke, who signed the motion.

‘We all know that boating is by no means the preserve of only the super-rich.’

Deputy St Pier said that States’ rules do not allow them to amend the regulations.

‘So we cannot table this as our own alternative solution. However, if the Assembly does agree to annul the charges, the STSB will still have plenty of time to return with fresh regulations to increase fees by 10% from 1 April 2024.’

Deputy Vermeulen said they were grateful for the GBA’s engagement.

‘This mechanism would allow more time for meaningful dialogue with the GBA, the marine traders and other interested parties, to agree an approach for fee increases over the coming years.’

The group said that an STSB consultation document from August concluded that St Peter Port was currently undervalued compared to other marinas. But it was also acknowledged that the berthing infrastructure, associated facilities and marine trade services were ‘lacking somewhat’ and held Guernsey Ports from increasing existing tariff rates.

‘Despite the STSB’s own consultants’ observation that the quality of facilities available locally prevents an increase in tariffs, that is exactly what Guernsey Ports are doing,’ said Deputy Chris Blin.

Deputy Victoria Oliver added that the comparisons contained in the fee consultation were not on a like for-like basis.

‘Our harbours only have tidal access, not 24 hours, and very limited shore-based facilities,’ she said.

‘Many people I have spoken to are thinking of selling their boats as a result of these fee increases.’

Deputies behind the motion

Simon Vermeulen

Chris Blin

David de Lisle

John Dyke

Steve Falla

John Gollop

Victoria Oliver

Gavin St Pier

Lyndon Trott