Exeter Port Authority
Coronavirus Second Lockdown 5 November – 2 December 2020
We are still waiting for confirmation from the Government regarding the new lockdown rules. Below is our current interpretation of the rules, and this is likely to alter as we receive greater clarity from the Government.
Exeter Port Authority is altering its stance in line with recent Government guidance to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. From Thursday 5th of November everyone is advised to stay at home except for specific purposes, which include taking exercise outdoors or to visit an outdoor public place.
Having reviewed the latest Government advice, the Exe estuary and Exeter ship canal can be used for exercise or spending time outdoors where social distancing can be maintained as part of your daily exercise routine.
Use of the water is permitted in line with Government restrictions ie with members of the same household, a support bubble or with one other person from another household.
So, from 00.01 on Thursday 5th November the following will apply when using the Exe estuary and Exeter ship canal facilities unless Government advises differently:-
Exeter Port Authority slipways will remain open subject to users complying with all Covid-19 regulations and published government guidance, including the regulations that set out the circumstances under which it is permissible to take exercise or take open air recreation. When on the slipway, users must comply with social distancing guidance at all times.
Mooring or berth holders may access their boats (and use them) subject to users complying with all regulations, and published government guidance including the regulations that set out the circumstances under which it is permissible to take exercise or take open air recreation. When on pontoons, users must comply with social distancing guidance at all times.
No overnight stays are permitted on vessels moored in the Exe estuary.
Visitor moorings are closed for overnight stays.
In line with the advice issued by some governing bodies, use of craft is permitted on the Exe and in the Exeter Ship Canal but all formal training/coaching/group activity is to cease for the duration of the lockdown.
Commercial businesses and operations may continue to work, including on vessels moored in the estuary provided they are allowed to do so under the regulations and comply with published Government guidance.
The Harbour Office and Canal office will be closed for personal visits. Please contact us by phone or email.
Our maintenance and mooring teams will continue to operate following our Covid Secure safe systems of work, to ensure their (and others) ongoing safety. We do not expect owners or other non-registered persons working aboard their vessel unless absolutely necessary, but you are able to check it is safe and sound. We anticipate this safe system of work may have to be adjusted to follow any further Government guidelines which may influence our operations or the services we provide without notice.
Grahame Forshaw MBE MNI
Harbour Master