To receive apologies for absence, including notifications of any changes to the membership of the Committee.

An apology for absence was received from Councillor Fox.

To confirm as a correct record the Minutes of the meeting of the Committee held on 5 June 2023.

The Minutes of the meeting of the Harbour Committee held on 5 June were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.

The Committee were advised of a medical incident at Torquay Harbour to which the Harbour Team responded.

Members received a presentation and a verbal update on Torbay Illuminations from the Tor Bay Harbour Master. 

It was noted that the new lighting installation at Brixham Harbour had not caused issues with navigation.

For Members to note the latest accident statistics for the Harbour Authority’s operational area as follows:

a)    Safety Management System

b)    Accumulate

c)    Marnis Reports

d)    Legislation

e)    Elberry Cove

Members received a presentation (as attached to these minutes) from the Tor Bay Harbour Master on the core principles of the Port Marine Safety Code which set out the statutory responsibility of the Harbour Committee. Members noted the individual and collective responsibilities for the duty holder role for port operations as set out in the code.

The Committee received a verbal update on a review to introduce a ‘fish sellers licence’ to potentially allow the sale of fish from vessels.  It was noted the outcome of the review would be circulated to members.

The Harbour Master advised that Tor Bay Harbour Authority were up to date on all risk assessments, which had been submitted via the Council’s Health and Safety System. 

Members were also provided an update on the key headlines on recent events for Tor Bay Harbour Authority.  The Harbour Master further explained, the short term, medium and long term operational priorities for the Tor Bay Harbour Authority.

The Harbour Committee noted a report that provided members with a financial update. 

The Harbour Master informed Members that the budget overspend on the maintenance budget is due to some repairs and maintenance which were required to a building located at Paignton Harbour. 

The Harbour Master asked members to note his concern of the opening balance of the Harbour reserve for this financial year.  Members noted the importance of retaining the Harbour reserve level at a high level.