Newlyn Harbour Announces Updated Charges for 2024

Newlyn Pier & Harbour Commissioners (NP&HC) has published its revised schedule of charges for the upcoming year, following a detailed annual review.

This adjustment in the charging structure is informed by comprehensive usage data from 2023, ensuring the harbour remains a competitive yet fair destination for maritime activities.

Aligning with Regional Standards

Jonathan, the Harbour Master & CEO, highlighted the rigorous benchmarking process undertaken with Tor Bay and Cornwall Council Harbours. This comparison ensures Newlyn Harbour’s charges are not only competitive but also adequate to support the harbour’s operational and development plans. “We strive to maintain fairness in our pricing, considering the broader economic pressures and our commitment to providing quality services,” Jonathan noted.

Key Changes in Charges

Set to take effect from the 1st of April, the new schedule introduces several changes designed to simplify the charging system, address inflationary pressures, and enhance the harbour’s offerings. Notably, charges will now be based on Length Overall (LOA) rather than Gross Tonnage (GT), a move expected to streamline both charging and administrative processes.

Despite holding pontoon charges steady, harbour dues for non-pontoon users will see a roughly 10% increase. This adjustment is in response to the last year’s inflation and aims to close a loophole that previously benefited smaller vessels disproportionately. Conversely, cargo dues have been reduced to foster more enquiries, aligning with Newlyn Harbour’s capacity for small scale operations.

Additionally, significant changes include the removal of Fish Market dues, a reflection of an impending concession arrangement, and an overhaul of waste removal charges. The latter will see a significant increase to better reflect operational costs, with the Harbour Office seeking alternative waste management solutions to mitigate future expenses.

Focused on Future Development

A notable shift in policy will see Newlyn residents no longer able to park in the Harbour Car Park, a decision made to prioritise core harbour users and facilitate the upcoming construction of the Newlyn Marine Skills & Resource Centre. This move underlines NP&HC’s commitment to investing in the harbour’s infrastructure for the benefit of the maritime community and beyond.

The 2024 schedule also includes detailed explanatory notes to ensure clarity and understanding of the new charging structure among harbour users. These notes cover a range of topics from the definition of non-contributory vessels to conditions governing slipway use and charges for additional services like demurrage and electricity.

A Commitment to Community and Quality

Jonathan expressed understanding of the challenges posed by price increases, especially in the current economic climate. However, he remains optimistic that the community will appreciate the balance struck between maintaining high service standards and the necessity of these adjustments. “As a Trust Port, our primary objective is to reinvest surplus revenues for the enhancement of both the harbour facilities and the wider community,” he affirmed.

For more detailed information on the new charges and operational adjustments, stakeholders and harbour users are encouraged to visit the Newlyn Harbour website.

This comprehensive review and the subsequent adjustments to the charging schedule underscore Newlyn Harbour’s commitment to sustainability, quality, and community engagement, ensuring it remains a key player in the regional maritime landscape.