North Tyneside Tories want a delay on boatyard licence decisions until after the Mayoral election, citing concerns over fishing heritage and safety regulations.
North Tyneside: Tory councillors are asking for a delay on decisions about the Cullercoats boatyard. They want this to happen until after the Mayoral election.
The deadline for signing new licences is approaching. Tory councillors have asked Coun Steve Cox to hold a special meeting. They want all elected members to vote on reconsidering the boatyard’s situation.
This boatyard has been part of a long dispute between local fishermen and the council. The council says the boatyard is unsafe and has derelict boats. They claim repairs can’t be done there.
However, fishermen argue that repairs have been allowed for years. They worry that stopping this could harm Cullercoats’s fishing tradition.
Last September and January, site occupiers received letters about renewing their licences. The new conditions include a ban on repairs in the boatyard. Fishermen must return signed documents by January 31.
Coun Liam Bones, the Conservative leader, wrote to Mayor Dame Norma Redfearn. He said the new licence would “burn bridges” with the council and make fishing impossible.
He added that fishing in Cullercoats is more than just a job. It’s a historic tradition that’s important to North Tyneside’s culture.
A council spokesperson said they received the request for a special meeting on January 24. The chair has a week to consider it.
They also mentioned that they’ve been in touch with licence holders about the new conditions. Three have signed and confirmed they want to stay, aiming for safe operations without disturbing residents.
A Labour spokesperson said their actions aim to improve the boat park for everyone. They followed proper procedures and a council motion was passed.
They’re pleased that most commercial fishermen in Cullercoats have signed the new lease. They will keep supporting the fishing heritage in the village.
