The Salcombe Harbour Board has met to discuss a range of issues including the Future of the Estuary Conservation and AONB Partnership.

The huge influx of visitors in the summer and the associated increase in water use puts the estuary under considerable strain, and the Salcombe Harbour Board have to employ careful management schemes to ensure its survival.

A revision of the Bye-Laws to reduce the speed limit from 8 to 6 knots has been proposed, which will satisfy stakeholder groups who have had concerns about the speed limit for some time. However, any changes will involve a lengthy process and wide consultation on the proposal, which will take place over the coming winter months.

It is proposed that Salcombe joins a new AONB Estuary Management Partnership to deliver relevant environmental management to the working harbours and estuaries of the South Hams on behalf of the Harbour Board. Other funding partners include Dart Harbour, Natural England, The Duchy of Cornwall, the National Trust, South Hams District Council and Devon County Council.

Plans for the harbour budget and the fees and charges for 2008/09 highlighted the fact that Salcombe’s visitor charges are the highest in the West Country and amongst the lowest for residents. Some rebalancing is essential for the long term viability of the port. Charges for visiting yachtsmen will remain frozen for a second year and be accompanied by a range of promotions designed to attract visitors back. Most other charges will rise by a forecast 16 per cent.

The chairman of the Harbour Board, Cllr Julian Brazil, commented: "It has been a busy year for the harbour and I believe we are making some real progress. Initial consultation suggests that there is considerable support for the reduction of the speed limit to 6 knots and hopefully we can have this in place for next summer.

"I am delighted we have been able to freeze charges for visiting yachtsmen for another year. The above inflation rises for annual facilities has been consulted on widely and is necessary for the future of the Harbour."

Salcombe harbour will have some time to rest during these quiet winter months: an ideal time for plans to be put in place ready for the busy season predicted for 2008.