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Berthing design tweak set for Findochty pontoons


By Alan Beresford

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A NEW berthing design to incorporate fin and long keel vessels at Findochty Harbour is to be undertaken.

The new pontoons at Findochty Harbour are set to be redesigned to better accommodate fin and long keel vessels. Picture: Becky Saunderson
The new pontoons at Findochty Harbour are set to be redesigned to better accommodate fin and long keel vessels. Picture: Becky Saunderson

New pontoons have recently been installed at the harbour but some boat owners have expressed concerns that the current design was not adequate for these types of boats.

The issue was raised at the most recent meeting of Findochty Harbour Advisory Committee as part of a general discussion about the pontoons.

There was good news in store for boatowners, with action set to be taken on this and other issues.

Councillor Sonya Warren. Picture: Daniel Forsyth
Councillor Sonya Warren. Picture: Daniel Forsyth

Committee chairwoman Councillor Sonya Warren (Buckie, SNP) said: “There were very interesting points raised about the berthing options for all the boats but especially the fin and long keel boats.

“After listening to concerns voiced at the meeting regarding provisions for fin and long keel berths within the new Findochty pontoon structure, it has been decided that a new berthing design will be planned and implemented after further consultation with all concerned parties.

“There were also concerns raised about a couple of the anchors and officers are going to check to see they are correct and appropriate for use, and provide no risk of damage to the boats in the harbour.

“Comment was made about the ramp at the walkway not being the same as the drawings that were consulted on. Again, officers are taking these points back to be looked at and will update the community.”

The planned design for fin and long keel boat berths will incorporate vertical posts installed on both sides of a prospective berth allowing vessels to tie two lines on each side providing more suitable and secure berthing arrangements.

The council’s consultancy department are preparing a detailed design drawing ready for a period of consultation including a meeting with affected users and circulation of plans to Harbour Advisory Committee members.

If the plans are well received the new berths will be constructed ready for the new season beginning in April 2022.

It is envisaged that the design drawings will be completed by December 10 and made public for full consultation beginning a week later.

This consultation period is set to come to an end on January 7, 2022 with a final design being agreed.

A tendering process will follow with construction being completed by the end March 2022.


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