Gorran Haven Harbour Final Update

We are thrilled to report that, due to the herculean efforts and magnificent generosity of the local community and the extended ‘Gorran Haven family’, we have reached, and have even exceeded, our fundraising target for the urgent quay repairs. It has been a huge project embracing numerous creative fundraising initiatives, involving much time, skill and energy. But it has also been an inspiration to work with talented contributors, both local and from ‘up country’, who have invested immeasurable time and expertise in supporting and publicising the whole project. You all deserve the community’s unfeigned gratitude.

From an artistic girl who sold painted pebbles to concerned individuals who have personally contributed significant sums of money; from local groups and clubs to special events and performances; we are amazed at your generosity, initiative and dedication. Our 140-year-old quay is one of our greatest community assets, and our community has voted to preserve it for as long as possible by putting their hands in their proverbial pockets!

While the Gorran Haven Harbour Trust has been tasked with managing the quay, it really belongs to the community. It would be traumatic for us to even try and imagine the village without it! The focal point of the village may be the quay, but the heart of the village is its community. In this crowdfunding campaign, both the heart and the focal point have come together.

As a result of this stunning success, we have instructed the contractors to begin work imminently. We hope to repair the quay and complete Phase 1 before the winter’s storms begin. However, we also know that in Phase 2, long-term defences will be needed to protect the quay, the boat pound and waterside properties for future generations. This may take time but plans and consultations have already taken place with this objective. In the meantime, rest assured that every penny donated will be expended in the repair and maintenance of our fabulous facility for the benefit of everyone.

If you still wish to donate to ensure future repairs anr maintained then visit our website www.gorranhavenharbourtrust.co.uk where you will find details on how to donate.

Geoff Fox

Chairman GHHT

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Quay on verge of collapse. Urgent Funds needed!

Recreation, tourism, business, properties are at risk

Gorran Haven Harbour Trust is responsible for the quay which is the focus of the village. It provides free access for recreation as well as a harbour to moor boats, and a breakwater to protect waterfront properties.

Its existence is now under serious threat!

A fissure has appeared to which we have provided temporary filling. But major work is needed desperately, and funds are urgently required to prevent the quay falling into irreparable disrepair.

Catastrophic Consequences

If we cannot secure enough funding to repair the quay then the consequences could be catastrophic, as can be seen with a few other quays in the county which are disintegrating. The end of the quay could quickly fall away, leaving the sea to disembowel the eastern arm. Shelter for boats would be reduced and moorings would probably be redundant. Safety regulations would compel us to close the quay completely; the breakwater protecting waterfront properties would diminish; some of the beach may remain unusable.

The knock-on effect may influence tourists wanting to visit or stay in the village, not to mention the businesses which rely upon them. Without remedial action, another winter’s storms could put the condition of the quay beyond reasonable funding.

What can we do?

The GHHT has procured the expertise of a surveyor and a local marine civil engineering company who have experience in this kind of work on other quays in the county.

We need to begin work as soon as it is feasible. But we can only begin major work if we have the finances in place. We are relying on public support, including enthusiastic supporters, creative fund raising and generous donors.

Thank you for your support and for any contribution that can be made towards our quay’s preservation.