Local people are being asked to express their views on proposals for the future management of Southwold Harbour Lands .

Councillors from Southwold Town Council and Waveney District Council have proposed the creation of a new strategic body which would oversee harbour operation, bringing expertise and experience to the management of the port.

The consultation begins on Saturday January 19 with an initial drop-in event in Southwold and will also include an online survey for stakeholders and members of the public to complete. Information gathered from the consultation will then be considered before a final recommendation is made for councillors to consider in March.

Cllr Mark Bee,Leader of Waveney District Council, said: “This consultation is a critical part of an open and transparent decision making process about Southwold Harbour. We want local people to be central to the harbour’s future and their voice matters.

“The model being considered during this consultation will provide additional openness and accountability about port decisions, address concerns which have already been voiced by various stake holders but also allow Waveney District Council a level of control when committing to the considerable investment that the harbour needs.

“Local influence is absolutely vital but we must also ensure the future viability and sustainability of the harbour and we believe these proposals get the balance just right.”

The structure being considered would establish a Harbour Management Committee as a means of governing the Southwold Harbour Lands and would consist of a group of Councillors and experts committed to securing long-term investment, while also reinforcing transparency and local involvement.

Full details of the proposals and a link to the online survey will go live on Friday January 18 at the East Suffolk Gov website HERE and a number of events are taking place which will allow people the opportunity to discuss the proposals.

TOWN COUNCILLORS

The Southwold Town Councillors are local, receive no payment and are not to be confused with District (East Suffolk) or County (Suffolk) councillors who have political affiliation. All Councillors are required to comply with the Code Of Conduct and register their interests. Details can be found on the East Suffolk Register of Interests which can be accessed by CLICKING HERE. Councillors can be contacted through the Town Council Office on 01502 722576 or by emailing townclerk@southwoldtowncouncil.com

COUNCIL ELECTION

An election has been called for, re the vacancy created by the resignation of Cllr Kerr. Please see election timetable – full details will also be available on the East Suffolk website www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/elections/election-notices-and-results/