I’ve written to Associated British Ports (ABP), the owners of much of Fleetwood’s dockland to raise the concerns from inshore fishers regarding the future of Jubilee Quay.

I had the pleasure of meeting members of the fishing community at the docks in December and they have since contacted me over concerns that ABP are requiring them to move their boats into the main marina which could impact on the times they are able to get out to sea.

The boat owners who use the quay have informed me that they placed fencing and security up in 2007, in order to protect the public from the edge of the quay and to protect their fishing equipment. I believe they are also able to use this space rent-free. Now the fencing is in a poor condition and fifteen years on, there doesn’t seem to have been further investment or joint working to install a more permanent or attractive solution to the area.

I do feel that these are matters that should be resolved between landowner and boat owners, but given the considerable difficulties faced by inshore fishers, I’ve asked ABP if there’s a route to compromise that could be forged between ABP and the local fishing community.

I’ve asked if the fishers can continue to use Jubilee Quay pointing out that in these difficult times it would be appreciated if this matter could be resolved quickly and to the satisfaction of all parties involved.

The history and heritage of the fishing industry remains culturally important to the people of Fleetwood who feel understandably aggrieved at the loss of their livelihoods when the industry went into decline in the 1970s. To them, and to me, it’s critical that everything should be done to protect the dwindling businesses still operating out of our port. I hope ABP agrees and we have some more positive news shortly.