A BIG drop in cargo tonnage at Teignmouth docks during the economic downturn has plunged the harbour commission into the red.

There was a deficit of about £13,000 in the past financial year, and it could rise to £50,000 this year.

Economies will have to be made, but Cmdr David Vaughan, the harbourmaster and chief executive, gave an assurance that fees for commercial and leisure customers would not rise.

'It is difficult because we have to be self sufficient in our finances, with no government or other assistance. It is a sign of the times I am afraid, but I am sure trade will pick up again.'

He revealed that the planned replacement of the pilot and two harbour boats would probably have to be postponed to save money.

Tonnage for the past financial year was down 106,000 tonnes to 525,000 tonnes, with reductions in both imports and exports.

This was reflected in a fall off in harbour activity revenue from £445,000 to £417,000.

Commission chairman Jeremy Grammer admitted it was a 'disappointing result', and reflected the difficult trading conditions of the port's commercial business.

Overheads also went up, which meant a loss of £13,000 in the operating and maintenance costs, compared to a £35,000 surplus the l From page 1

previous year.

But there was at least one bright spot – revenue from the leisure side, primarily moorings, held up well, with more visitors putting into Teignmouth after promotions in yachting magazines.

In his annual report, Mr Grammer highlights a 'significant drop' in ball clay exports from the Bovey basin area, directly related to the building industry recession. Also down, but not quite so badly, were imports of animal feed, fertiliser, and blast furnace slag from Newport.

Mr Grammer said the commission continued to make progress in managing the estuary moorings, and the new database was 'invaluable' in detailing vessels, owners and locations.

Deep water moorings remained at a premium, and pontoons continued to be used well by visitors.

Extra business was being pursued, and Mr Grammer also mentioned a newly installed surveillance system (IRIS), which gives radar and CCTV 24-hour coverage of the harbour.

He reported that an inquiry into the grounding of the Sea Ruby on the bar found she was slightly north of the correct position to enter the channel 'with a number of contributing points that have all been addressed and corrective action taken'.

The dredging programme was operated throughout the year, and the channel maintained to give sufficient depth for all ships and cargoes.

Summarising, Mr Grammer described it as 'a challenging period' with a lot of pressure on everybody to deliver greater value for no additional reward.

'There are few indications of recovery of exports. It is hoped there will be a much-needed recovery in the second half of the year, but this is not assured.'

There was special praise for Cmdr Vaughan for making 'considerable progress in consolidating the many changes in the organisation' and establishing a clear identity for the commission with the industry, stakeholders, customers and the community.

Mr Grammer concluded: 'I am grateful to the harbour team, pilots, commissioners, and customers for their continued support in maintaining Teignmouth as a successful port and a vibrant harbour, despite the current economic difficulties.

'The commission does have the strength and versatility in its people to face the challenges for the coming year.'