The Broads Authority has transformed its dockyard on the River Yare with a new state-of-the art workshop and offices which will help maintain the Broads for generations of visitors to come.
The £680,000 development, which was opened by Eastern Daily Press editor Nigel Pickover , is now the hub of the Authority’s construction and maintenance work.
Its workboats, launches, plant and equipment will be repaired and maintained here while a newly refurbished slipway allows direct access into the workshop from the river.
The need for the dockyard development became apparent when the Broads Authority took over the dredging of the Broads from its long-term contractor May Gurney six years ago.
The Authority bought the Griffin Lane dockyard along with its ageing cranes, mud wherries, tugs, plant and equipment in a very favourable deal. It also took on the May Gurney dredging team of 11 men, many of whom had a life-time’s experience of dredging.
Chief Executive John Packman said: “ When we bought this site from May Gurney we realised the facilities were very, very poor and that it would need investment. We have now improved the conditions for staff up to a modern standard. This is quite an important day in terms of tourism and the investment the Broads Authority is making for the future of the Broads. ”
Nigel welcomed the opening of the new building so it could help the Broads both survive and thrive.
He said: “I’m thrilled and honoured to be part of this great initiative and will be a huge supporter of the Broads Authority in the future. Well done for this innovation and good luck to the team, who are great professionals.”
[mappress]
Press Release, July 5, 2013