ABOUT
Harbour Commission Information
Constituted in 1951, the harbour is an independent statutory body, run by an independent board of commissioners for the benefit of stakeholders. We are committed to operating within government DfT guidelines, as published in the Ports Good Governance Guidance.
Port business is conducted in the interests of all stakeholders with openness, transparency, accountability, and commercial prudence. The Department for Transport requires Lymington Harbour Commission to operate as a commercial business, seeking to generate a surplus from its operations and marine services. Surpluses are then reinvested into the port or otherwise directed towards the interests and benefit of stakeholders.
The trust board consists of independent non-executive commissioners and the chief executive. Board members are appointed on merit on an open recruitment basis to provide Lymington Harbour Commission with the professional skills and experience to determine the policy and business decisions of the organisation. Board members are appointed for a term of three years and can usually serve a maximum of two terms. A maximum of two additional commissioners can be co-opted at any one time for specific purposes and serve for a period of 12 months.
Apart from the Chief Executive, the Commissioners’ positions are voluntary, and they have agreed not to receive remuneration.
A summary of the activities Lymington Harbour Commission performs is given below:
- The safe management of the harbour and harbour activities, in compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code.
- Maintaining navigational aids and hydrographic surveys, navigational control, policing and notices to mariners.
- Maintaining an ‘open port’ policy, available to all users.
- Keeping the need for the provision of pilotage services under review.
- Pollution control and waste management.
- Monitoring and working to protect the environment, with a view to conservation.
- Works and dredge licence consents.
- Levying and collecting harbour dues.
- Reviewing and updating harbour legislation.
Commercial
- Provision of pontoon, pile, and swinging mooring facilities.
- Provision of supporting shore side facilities (showers/washrooms/waste disposal).
- Provision of slipway for launching and recovery of small vessels.
- Provision of drying grids for hull maintenance.
Consultation
As recommended by the DfT, the Commission consults and seeks guidance from an advisory committee whose members represent the beneficiaries and stakeholders of Lymington Harbour.
The Lymington Harbour Advisory Group is a key part of good governance, enabling stakeholders to table ideas and raise concerns to the board and senior leadership team and assist in the flow of information to stakeholders. The Lymington Harbour Advisory group is consulted on all matters substantially affecting the management, maintenance, improvement, conservation, protection, or regulation of Lymington Harbour and its navigation.
We encourage all stakeholders to provide input and feedback to the Commission or through Lymington Harbour Advisory Committee so that we can continue to operate a thriving port that meets the needs of its users.
