Sums of money generated by Weymouth Harbour could stop being moved to the central council pot if new governing legislation is granted.
Weymouth and Portland Borough Council has put in a bid to make a Harbour Revision Order (HRO) to modernise existing legislation governing the management of the harbour, some of which dates from the 1820s.
Under the proposed order, the council will be able to make general directions leading to better management, and replace some outdated bye laws. This could see the introduction of enforcement and management of jet skis within the harbour boundaries.
The order would also mean WPBC is ready to deal with land issues ahead of the Pavilion peninsula redevelopment, making it easier to dispose of land no longer needed for port use.
Councillors discussed the proposal during a special meeting of the Harbour Management Board.
Martin Hamilton, strategic director, described the current acts that govern the harbour as “old, complex and fragmented,” making it difficult when understanding and complying with relevant powers and duties.
He said: “The idea is to undertake a HRO which would give us a set of rules for the harbour that would be considered good practice elsewhere.”
The order could also mean that money generated by the harbour will be ringfenced and put back into maintenance and upgrade costs. Historically, money from surplus harbour income has been passed to the council pot, but under new legislation the Harbour Board would be advised against doing this.
Cllr Jon Orrell said: “I’m persuaded that this is what we need to do. We want to keep the harbour in the public domain and pass it on to future generations.
“I’m reassured by the idea of money staying with the harbour. I’m very much in favour of these new powers and safeguards.”
As part of the process, a 42-day public consultation, including drop in sessions, would take place for interested parties to express views or concerns to the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) who will review the application.
The MMO is a Government body which licences and regulates marine activities around UK coasts.
Cllr Paul Kimber said: “I’m really conscious that key harbour users such as fishermen and small boat owners are able to contribute and have their say.
“I wouldn’t like to feel like they are left out of this process.”
Board members voted unanimously in support of the motion and for it to be considered by the management committee in a meeting tomorrow.