New Group Falmouth HUG Unites Falmouth Harbour Users: Here’s What You Need to Know

Falmouth Harbour’s commercial and leisure water users have joined forces to create the harbour’s first Harbour Users Group (HUG). This group, designed as a two-way communication channel, aims to improve transparency and best practices among the diverse stakeholders who use Falmouth’s waters.

Who’s Involved in the HUG?

The Falmouth HUG includes over 20 representatives from various groups, including sailors, swimmers, paddleboarders, fishers, local councils, and marine businesses. They will meet four times a year to discuss concerns, share information, and filter ideas between Falmouth Harbour and those who use it.

Environmental organisations, RNLI, HM Coastguard, and neighbouring harbour authorities are also part of this collaborative effort. The aim is to ensure that everyone using the harbour—whether for commercial or leisure purposes—is represented.

Led by Experienced Hands

The Falmouth HUG’s first chairperson is Dave Owens, an experienced expert in environment and emergency management. Dave played a crucial role in shaping the group, seeking advice from similar organisations in Cowes and Fowey to ensure the best possible structure for Falmouth Harbour’s HUG.

The group will act as a key contact point for the Falmouth Harbour Board of Commissioners, representing local stakeholders and informing them about changes affecting the harbour. The focus will be on safety, enjoyment, and environmental protection.

Falmouth’s Harbour Master Weighs In

Falmouth Harbour Master, Ifor Pedley, expressed that the HUG is a vital step in ensuring transparency for activities, policies, and information that impact thousands of people and organisations in Falmouth. Simple matters, such as ensuring all water users are aware of speed limits in the Inner Harbour, will be addressed alongside broader concerns about event safety and environmental protection.

For more information on the work of Falmouth Harbour, visit their website.

Water users and stakeholders can contact the Falmouth HUG by emailing HUGchair@falmouthharbour.co.uk.

Photo: Falmouth Harbour Master Ifor Pedley and Dave Owens, Chair of Falmouth’s new Harbour Users Group (HUG). Photo – Falmouth Harbour