FISHGUARD and Goodwick Town Council is to explore the possibility of bringing Lower Fishguard Harbour back into local ownership.

Pembrokeshire County Council carried out a benchmarking review of its fees and charges following a request by cabinet last summer.

It looked at harbour terms and conditions, application forms, transfer of moorings and the facilities and services offered there.

The review formed the basis of a report by the Director of Development, which was presented to the Economy Overview and Scrutiny Committee on January 16 this year.

It was decided that fees at Fishguard would rise in line with inflation, with a new fee for commercial kayaking operations.

There are 171 moorings at Lower Fishguard Harbour, with 15 outer moorings and accommodation for casual visitors alongside the quay wall.

Figures show during a 10 year period between 2002/2003 and 2012/2013 the harbour’s expenditure was £32,000, while its income was almost half that at £17,000. Pembrokeshire County Council subsidised the shortfall.

At the last town council meeting, Councillor Alex Allison said: “I can remember years ago when we had a very good boat owner’s committee in Lower Town. I suggested then that they take over the running of the harbour.

“I for one would like to bring it back into local control. Solva do it, and they do it really well.”

Cllr Kevin Siggins asked if anyone had heard expressions of interest from the yacht club.

“I think it might be interesting to forward some of our information to them to see what feedback we get,” he said.

Cllr Allison’s proposal to write to boat owners, yacht club and sea cadets, putting to them the idea of the community taking over the harbour, was backed by councillors.

Cllr Allison added: “At the end of the day there might be no interest at all, but we need to get consultation going.”

A public meeting is likely to be held to discuss the matter further.