Email Print Preferred bidder named for Lydney Harbour11 Jul 2016The Environment Agency (EA) has chosen Richard Cook of Severn and Wye Smokery as the preferred bidder for Gloucestershire’s historic Lydney Harbour.The EA will now begin negotiations around the details of transfer and the associated harbour authority responsibilities, a process that is expected to ‘take a while’ to complete.In the meantime the EA says it will continue to manage and operate the harbour and work closely with Mr Cook to ensure solid foundations are put in place to support his proposals and secure a smooth transition.In addition, the EA will continue to protect the community through the operation and maintenance of the flood risk assets on site throughout the transfer to the new custodian and once the transfer has been completed.The canal and basin complex was built around 1810, however Pidcock’s Canal was constructed from 1790 onwards, connecting Upper and Lower Forge at the head of Lydney Pill.Further development took place after the initial opening with an outer harbour and north pier.The tidal basin was closed in 1976 and in 1980 the harbour, including the lower and tidal basins and the pier, was designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument.The docks were re-opened in 2005 and there is also a marina with mooring facilities for around 50 boats.The sale of the harbour is linked to a wider regeneration initiative for Lydney.”We see transferring the harbour as an essential step in revitalising the area and ensuring that all users retain the ability to use the Harbour and its surroundings with enhanced facilities,” said Ian Jones, EA area environment manager. “We look forward to working closely with Mr Cook over the coming months.”

via Boating Business | Preferred bidder named for Lydney Harbour.