Urgent call to drop harbour swim charge
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A LOCAL councillor is hopeful that a coastal fundraiser will be spared of having to pay a new charge after a public outcry last week.
Moray Council was widely criticised after organisers of the Burghead Boxing Day Swim, which has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds over the years for local charities, said they would have to look at the viability of the event as a result of the charging policy.
The organisers demanded to know what exactly the council's charge covered as the association dealt with all aspects of the event – from divers to risk assessments.
A post on Facebook from the organisers expressing their shock and disappointment prompted a surge of public support – and Moray Conservative MP Douglas Ross said that to "plunder the funds" was a desperate move.
It is believed the charge is only £100, but swim president Jamie Campbell said it was the principle and committee members were concerned what direction charges would take in future, adding: "We're actually helping the council by giving to causes that should be supported by the council, so it seems a bit unfair."
However, there are moves afoot to seek a dispensation for the harbour dip, which is in its 34th year.
SNP Heldon and Laich Councillor Amy Taylor said: "As part of the council’s budget, set in February, councillors unanimously agreed a wide range of charges for services, which included some amendments and some new charges, including a charge to cover the council’s costs in relation to events taking place at our harbours.
"It has become apparent that this charge is having a disproportionate impact on a small number of community events and generates very little income.
"Therefore, I have submitted an urgent motion, with the support of Independent Councillor Ryan Edwards, to a meeting of Moray Council next week seeking the removal of the charge.
"I have had a positive response from the council leader and others and I am hopeful that this issue can be resolved quickly to the benefit of our coastal communities and their charitable fundraising efforts."
