Conwy fishermen have warned that the future of the Conwy fishing fleet is under threat because of the move made by Conwy County Borough Council to try and introduce commercial vessel mooring fees.
The Local Authority has explained to Janet Finch-Saunders, Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy, that the Council is under pressure to deliver savings and generate additional revenue in light of the funding shortfall, which has partly led to the 8.95% council tax increase in 2025/26.
Commenting on the proposed charging of commercial vessels in Conwy Harbour, Janet said:
“I am very grateful to all the Conwy fishermen and the local authority officials who have given their time to discuss this very difficult situation with me.
“I acknowledge that the officers have undertaken a bench marking exercise with all other harbours, marinas and ports in Wales, which has revealed that Conwy Harbour is the only location in Wales which currently does not charge commercial vessels mooring fees, and instead only collects harbour dues.
“I also acknowledge that the Local Authority is totally strapped for cash, due to the unfair Welsh Government funding settlement and UK Government changes to National Insurance, but it is the wrong decision to try and net more money by targeting fishermen.
“The fleet, which is a mere shadow of its former glory, is on its last legs, and as such it is essential that we use all levers at our disposal to help it survive. Ask yourselves as taxpayers, do we really want Conwy town to be without a fishing fleet for the first time in centuries? My view is absolutely not!
“I welcome the fact that fishermen, elected representatives, and officials seem to be working together to find a solution to this crisis. If this is not resolved, there will be a knock-on effect on local food supply”.
ENDS
