Big Landings, New Leaders and Repairs Ahead: What’s Happening at Newlyn Harbour?

New faces on the Board, big landings and ongoing upgrades at Cornwall’s busiest port

Newlyn Harbour has seen a major boost in fish landings and changes to its leadership, according to the latest monthly update from Newlyn Pier & Harbour Commissioners (NP&HC).

Fish Market Growth

Since W Stevenson & Sons Limited (WS&S) took over as the exclusive auctioneer for Newlyn Fish Market on 1st April 2024, the port has experienced a surge in landings. Almost 3.9 million kilograms of fish have been landed over the past year, with a market value of £19.1 million – a year-on-year increase of 22% in volume and 32% in value.

WS&S Managing Director Paul Trebilcock said, “This year of remarkable growth reflects the confidence of fishermen choosing Newlyn and WS&S as their preferred landing port and market, as well as the increasing demand from buyers drawn to the exceptional quality and efficient auction system on offer.”

Daily landings include a range of species such as Monkfish, Megrim, Dover Sole, Lemon Sole, Cuttle Fish, Squid, MSC-Certified Sardines and Hake, and handline-caught Mackerel, Bass and Bluefin Tuna.

📷David Stevens

New Board Members Appointed

NP&HC has appointed three new Commissioners: David Stevens, Paul Trebilcock and Becki Jarvis. David Stevens joins the Board for an initial three-year term following Sam Winters’ retirement; Paul Trebilcock will complete Abbie Smith’s three-year term, which is due for renewal on 30th May 2026, and Becki Jarvis has been appointed for a one-year fixed term.

David Stevens, a Newlyn fisherman for 35 years, operates the Crystal Sea SS118 with his brother and is involved in a number of industry organisations including the Cornish Fish Producers’ Organisation (CFPO) and Fishing into the Future. “I look forward to playing my part in helping drive Newlyn Harbour forward to meet the future needs and expectations of the industry,” said David.

Paul, who also leads fisheries sustainability for Ocean Fish Group Ltd, previously served as Chief Executive of the CFPO for 20 years and chaired the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations. “With my personal background and professional experience, I have a deep understanding of quay-side realities as well as the political complexities of fisheries management in Newlyn and beyond,” he said.

Becki Jarvis is a marine biologist and commercial fisheries consultant. “I am honoured to join NP&HC at such a pivotal moment, and committed to ensuring that Newlyn remains at the heart of a strong and sustainable coastal economy,” said Becki.

NP&HC Chair Paul Durkin welcomed the new members and thanked outgoing Commissioner Sam Winters for his service during a period of positive change. “On behalf of the Board, I welcome David, Paul and Becki as our new Harbour Commissioners and look forward to working with them to secure the prosperity of the Newlyn Harbour Estate,” said Chair of NP&HC, Paul Durkin. “I would also like to pay tribute to retiring Commissioner, Sam Winters, who has completed the maximum three terms, and express our gratitude for his selfless service, commitment and contribution during a time of positive change. We also thank Abbie Smith, who has resigned for personal reasons, for her dedication to NP&HC, having served as a Harbour Commissioner since 2019.”

Repairs, Refits and Refurbishments

Routine summer maintenance is underway across the harbour. New bollards are being installed on the Mary Williams Pier and proposals are being sought to repair the deteriorating outer face of South Pier.

Restoration work at the Old Quay continues with the installation of renewed moorings. The Fisherman’s Rest café and wellbeing hub has now been handed over to the Cornish Maritime Trust to support its future as a sustainable community space.

At the Newlyn Marine Skills & Resource Centre, piling is now complete and groundworks continue.

Facilities and Water Supply

The Harbour is still dealing with issues affecting its private potable water supply. Although the current supply can still be used for technical purposes like fish processing and vessel washdowns, drinking water must now be sourced from the hydrant at the ice berth. NP&HC say the Harbour Master is working with specialists to identify what infrastructure needs to be replaced. Updates will be shared via the Newlyn Harbour website and social media.

📷Paul Trebilcock

Parking and Waste Management Changes

To improve access for Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service and larger vehicles, new parking restrictions are being introduced on the harbourside. Changes are also coming to the waste management system. Bulk waste containers will be locked, large wheelie bins reduced in number, and vessels will need to notify the harbour in advance of their waste needs.

Charges Frozen

Despite rising costs, NP&HC has announced there will be no increase to core charges or harbour dues this year. Harbour Master Jonathan Poynter said, “For many harbour users, our core charges and harbour dues will have remained unchanged for two or three years now, and this will be welcome news.”

Marking National Fishing Remembrance Day

Newlyn commemorated National Fishing Remembrance Day on Sunday 11th May. “The fishing community is at the heart of everything we do,” said Paul Durkin, “and we were proud to commemorate National Fishing Remembrance Day on Sunday 11^th May, to reflect on the many dangers our fishermen face and remember those who have lost their lives.”

NP&HC Board meetings are held bi-monthly on the first Friday of each month. For more information visit newlynharbour.com.

📷Becki Jarvis