(press release from MP Gordon Henderson’s office)

At a meeting last Thursday, initiated by Gordon Henderson MP, the various groups involved in Queenborough Harbour came together to reach agreement on the way forward over ownership and management of the All Tide Landing which paves the way for immediate repairs to be undertaken to enable its use by Easter 2014 for both local yachtsmen and visitors.

This will also open the way for the Southern Water sponsored Sheppey Even Keel disabled yacht training project to restart in June 2014 something which local MP Gordon Henderson has been keen to see happen.

Mr Henderson said “We were bitterly disappointed that the Even Keel project was unable to take place last year because of problems with the All Tide Landing. I am delighted that local organisations have come together to ensure the necessary repairs can be made and I am hopeful that Even Keel will take place this year.”

The meeting was chaired by Hon Ald John Burke on behalf of the MP who said “I am pleased we were able to get all parties round the table and reach agreement so harmoniously on so many long standing issues and difference and I thank all concerned for their goodwill in doing so which made my role as Chairman so much easier.”

Geoff Reed- Director of QHT said “Queenborough Harbour Trust is delighted to work with Queenborough Yacht Club and other organisations in order to ensure the long-term viability of Queenborough’s All Tide Landing.” His colleague Patrick Moore thanked Gordon Henderson MP for his initiative and John Burke for his excellent chairmanship in achieving such a successful outcome.

Dave Price – Commodore of QYC said “ I am delighted with the outcome which I hope now puts to rest recent adverse publicity which inaccurately represented the position of Queenborough Yacht Club who have been seeking this outcome for some time.”

Queenborough Town Council and Swale Borough Council will now be monitoring progress and helping to ensure this potential boost to tourism on Sheppey is successful and that Sheppey Even Keel recommences in June under the sponsorship of Southern Water.

Sue Simpson – Mayor of Queenborough Town Council said “We are pleased to see that a compromise has been reached by all parties as the All Tide Landing is a great asset to Queenborough and we look forward to it reopening this Easter.”

Tim Bell of Sheppey Even Keel said “The disabled in Swale will be excited to learn that this much needed disabled yacht training scheme can once again start-up safely this June, I can’t wait to get going.”