Remove wrecked boat off Dundrum — appeal

Remove wrecked boat off Dundrum — appeal

20 July 2016

AN abandoned boat which has become an instantly recognisable feature of Dundrum’s picturesque harbour area could soon be removed.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council has been approached by an individual who is willing to remove the boat — located at the inner bay area in the village — for salvage.

Councillor Patrick Clarke is urging local authority officials to consider the request and while he admitted there may be some people who wish to see the boat remain in place, he is concerned that the vessel’s continued deterioration and possible break-up could lead to potential pollution with oil and fuel escaping.

He has been contacted by a number of people keen to see the old boat removed from the harbour and who have described it as “unsightly.” Councillor Clarke said the vessel is located close to a number of apartments and that in addition to it being unsightly, the vessel could eventually break up causing possible pollution.

He said it is his understanding that the inner bay area is leased to Newry, Mourne and Down Council from the Crown Estate, with the local authority responsible for the consequences of any oil or fuel leak from the abandoned boat.

“While some people are keen for the boat to be removed, others are keen to see it remain as it is part of the local landscape and features on back shots used by both the BBC and UTV,” continued Councillor Clarke.

“The fact remains that this is an abandoned boat and will those supporting its retention be willing to pay for pollution caused by any oil or petrol still on board? When I raised the issue of removing the boat with the former Down Council, I was informed that the salvage costs would be in excess of £10,000.”

Councillor Clarke suggested that if it can be established via a new survey that the abandoned boat is safe and won’t decay further and break up, perhaps keeping the abandoned vessel where it is may be an option.

He added: “I am aware of the person who is keen to salvage the vessel at his expense and have advised him to speak with council officials. The person concerned will cover the cost of removing the boat.

“Given the vessel’s owner has no interest in the abandoned boat and local authority staff have already exhausted all avenues in trying to trace its legal owner, I think the council should consider the request to remove it.”