Posted on March 16, 2017
A member of the Scarborough Borough Council Cabinet has responded to criticism concerning the Whitby dredger.
Councillor Mike Cockerill has had his say following claims that the new dredger in the town, which returned at the end of last year, has not been carrying out enough work.
In a statement, Cllr Cockerill said:
Following the question put to me at the recent Council meeting, I enclose details of the dredging undertaken this year.
I hope it is now clear that although it may be calm within the harbour, the sea conditions outside the harbour control the ability to SAFELY go to sea to split the vessel to allow the dumping of the dredged material at the licensed location.
Holidays and sickness also play their part.
Although the dredger might not be going to sea it does afford the opportunity to undertake essential routine maintenance which is essential considering the harsh environment in which the system has to work.
It is pleasing to note that the tonnage for January 2017 was the greatest during the last 4 years.
February this year was on a par with 2016 and better than 2015.
As would be expected, zero days have been lost to breakdown with any days that featured minor repair also achieving some dredging.
The reconfigured dredging system, that returned to Whitby around the turn of the year, has an increased reach for dredging and has maintained its capacity.
The significant investment, out of Harbour Funds, built up over the years has provided a dredging system that is more efficient and safer than the one it replaced.
I hope that the FACTS I have provided will reduce or even stop the unfounded adverse comments that emanate from some sources.
Source: yorkshire coastradio
