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The management of one of Norfolk's principal river crossings has opted to keep it closed to maritime traffic, leading to significant financial setbacks for the marine industry, estimated at £2 million.
Peel Ports, the operator of Haven Bridge in Great Yarmouth, is facing mounting discontent following its cessation of bridge openings for river vessels last month.
The rationale behind this decision remains obscure, with affected businesses and boaters left in the dark regarding both the motive and the potential duration of the blockade.
Sue Goodchild, representing Goodchild Marine, characterized the situation as "a complete fiasco," attributing losses exceeding £2 million to trade disruptions and the necessity of costly detours.
Despite negotiations between Norfolk County Council, the bridge's proprietor, and Peel Ports, a resolution has yet to materialise.
The blockade of Haven Bridge, a crucial thoroughfare into Yarmouth spanning the Yare River, obstructs maritime passage between the Norfolk Broads and the North Sea.
Due to its relatively low clearance, safe navigation requires the bridge to be raised.
Peel Ports, mandated by Norfolk County Council to oversee the bridge's operation, has encountered persistent issues with the 94-year-old structure since 2018 when malfunctions halted its functionality.
Despite a £1.2 million repair initiative, marked by prolonged delays, the bridge remained inoperative for three years before reopening in December.
However, restrictions were imposed, limiting bridge openings to twice daily—at 10 am and 2 pm—and introducing a £20 transit fee each way, provoking outrage among seafaring communities.
Concerns were raised regarding heightened risks associated with navigating the passage during unfavourable tidal conditions.
Subsequently, on April 9, Peel Ports opted for a complete closure, citing "health and safety concerns" following a malfunction incident in February that necessitated temporary closure to vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Instances of frustrated commuters breaching barriers prompted calls for heightened security during bridge operations, although it remains unclear if this is linked to the recent safety concerns.
Peel Ports emphasised the paramount importance of safety, refraining from lifting the bridge until safety concerns are addressed by Norfolk County Council.
While NCC acknowledged ongoing discussions regarding procedural matters, the impasse persists, much to the dismay of river users.
Peel Ports' statutory obligation to operate the bridge, dating back to 1866 and 1925 legislative acts, underscores the complexities of the dispute.
For Goodchild Marine, the toll of the bridge closure extends beyond financial losses, impeding vessel testing and prompting customers to seek services elsewhere.
The plight has garnered attention from the Broads Authority, tasked with preserving navigability, as calls intensify for a swift resolution to the protracted standoff.
Amidst mounting frustrations, Mrs. Goodchild lamented the failure to reach a consensus despite ample time for deliberation during the repair hiatus, decrying the situation as a "complete debacle."