Changes planned for Ramsgate Harbour

Ramsgate Harbour Slipways Ltd (RHS) was formed following A&P’s withdrawal in 2006 whereafter three of the four slipways were refurbished, the larger no 1 slipway able to accommodate vessels up to 60m length and 700 tons displacement. Thanet Council are now considering an application to redevelop the area with a mix of bars, restaurants and offices built over three of the four slipways, leaving just no.1 slipway in operation.

The plans have received a mixed response locally, the dividing line almost a physical one in the main seafront road. On one side is the working harbour including RHS and the marina. On the other is a vibrant café culture area that ironically has benefited from the commercial activity generated by the offshore wind farms being installed off the Kent coast.

Ramsgate’s selection as the shore base for the Thanet and the London Array wind farms has brought a degree of prosperity to the harbour and some fear the loss of part of the yard’s capacity could see repair and maintenance work on the associated support vessels lost to neighbouring ports. Others fear the visual impact the modern building will have on the neighbouring historic Ramsgate Maritime Museum.

Ramsgate Harbour Slipways Ltd supports the redevelopment, viewing the plans as an opportunity to streamline its operation. Currently all four slipways are only occasionally fully occupied and concentrating everything on the larger no.1 slipway is expected to result in a more efficient utilisation of the facilities. New improved offices and workshops are also included in the plans.

Getting the balance right for both sides of the argument will be crucial for this thriving port. Ramsgate is an example of a port where a somewhat eclectic mix of commercial and leisure activities in close proximity can coexist and actually compliment each other.

By Peter Barker