Chichester Harbour issues statement on permitted activities following Government announcement

The Chichester Harbour Conservancy has issued a statement on harbour activities after the Government announced an easing of lockdown measures on Sunday night.
Chichester HarbourChichester Harbour
Chichester Harbour

The Government advised that, from today, unlimited outdoor activity would be permitted in England.

However a spokesman for the Chichester Harbour Conservancy said it was ‘unclear whether this includes any, or all forms of boating, or something in between’.

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The Department of Culture, Media and Sport has undertaken to clarify the position this week.

The spokesman said: “While we await further government guidance, we are content for harbour users to take exercise on the water in kayaks, paddleboards and the like, and that the owners of vessels on moorings can access them to confirm their safety.”

The harbour has announced the following measures and advice, in ‘anticipation of a return to some form of recreational boating’:

– Please follow social distancing guidance (stay 2 metres apart where possible).

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– Conservancy jetties at Itchenor and Emsworth are marked with direction of travel and 2m spacing on the ‘T’ Head.

– Please wash your hands regularly.

– Visitor facilities will not be available for overnight stays, and no rafting.

– Please confirm that any facilities you intend to travel to are open and have agreed to receive you, both in Chichester Harbour and beyond.

– Maintenance piles are not available.

The spokesman said rescues posed a risk to both the casualty and the rescuer, adding that there was likely to be reduced rescue response capacity in the Harbour.

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People should ensure that their craft is well maintained and that they sail within the limits of their abilities.

The spokesman warned: “If social distancing requirements cannot be maintained, facilities may need more intrusive management or to be closed.”

The carpark at Itchenor is open but people are encouraged to pay by card or through the MiPermit app, which is available for both Apple and Android devices, wherever possible.

The Itchenor Ferry will not be operating for footpath passengers or boat users until further clarification on recreational boating is received from the Government, the spokesman said.

Showers at Itchenor currently remain closed.

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Harbour Offices at Itchenor and Emsworth also remain closed to visitors.

The spokesman also gave the following update on walking, running and cycling in the harbour area: “The footpaths and Salterns Way cycle path have remained open throughout but please maintain a distance of two metres from any other people you encounter. 

“Some of the more popular footpaths have become increasingly busy recently, particularly between Fishbourne and West Wittering and also Prinsted to Cobnor Point.

“Please do not cycle on public footpaths. There has been a rise in cyclists using waterside footpaths which are designed for walkers only. 

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“Cycling on these footpaths is causing damage which is difficult and costly to repair. 

“Please stick to roads, cycle paths or bridleways, the Salterns Way cycle path is the best route from Chichester to West Wittering with great viewpoints along the way.”

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