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Agenda Document Pack - Harbours Sub-Committee - 15/09/2026

Moray Council · 15 September 2026
Back to Harbours Sub-Committee — 15 September 2026 and its agenda

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Harbours Sub-Committee 
Tuesday, 15 September 2026 
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Meeting of the Harbours Sub-Committee is to be
held at Council Chambers, Council Office, High Street, Elgin, IV30 1BX on Tuesday,
15 September 2026 at 09:30. 
BUSINESS 
1. Sederunt   
2. Declaration of Group Decisions and Members Interests *   
3. Minute of meeting dated 2 June 2026   5 - 8
4. Written Questions **   
5. Marine Safety and Operational Summary for Quarter 1
2026/27
Report by Executive Director Economy, Enterprise and Operations  
9 - 22 
Summary of Harbour Sub Committee Functions
To fulfil the role of Duty Holder as described in the Port Marine Safety
Code, and to provide strategic oversight and direction for harbour
operations, giving greater focus and clarity on the Council’s role as
harbour authority.   
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Watching the Meeting
You can watch the webcast live by going to:    
http://www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_43661.html    
Webcasts are available to view for 1 year following the meeting.  
You can also attend the meeting in person.  If you wish to attend
in person, please come to the High Street entrance door and a
member of staff will let you into the Chamber. 
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GUIDANCE NOTES 
* Declaration of Group Decisions and Members Interests - The Chair of the
meeting shall seek declarations from any individual or political group at the
beginning of a meeting whether any prior decision has been reached on how the
individual or members of the group will vote on any item(s) of business on the
Agenda, and if so on which item(s).  A prior decision shall be one that the
individual or the group deems to be mandatory on the individual or the group
members such that the individual or the group members will be subject to
sanctions should they not vote in accordance with the prior decision.  Any such
prior decisions will be recorded in the Minute of the meeting. 
** Written Questions - Any Member can put one written question about any relevant
and competent business within the specified remits not already on the agenda, to
the Chair provided it is received by the Proper Officer or Committee Services by
5pm three working days prior to the day of the meeting, please see Standing Order
36 for deadlines.  A copy of any written answer provided by the Chair will be
published on the Council’s committee management system by 12pm the day
before the meeting.  The Member who has put the question may, after the answer
has been published, may ask one supplementary question directly related to the
subject matter at the meeting, but no discussion will be allowed. 
No supplementary question can be put or answered more than 10 minutes after
the Council has started on the relevant item of business, except with the consent
of the Chair. If a Member does not have the opportunity to put a supplementary
question because no time remains, then he or she can submit it in writing to the
Proper Officer who will arrange for a written answer to be provided within 7
working days. 
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MORAY COUNCIL 
Harbours Sub-Committee 
SEDERUNT 
Councillor Marc Macrae (Chair)
Councillor Amber Dunbar (Depute Chair)  
Councillor James Allan (Member)
Councillor Neil Cameron (Member)
Councillor Tracy Colyer (Member)
Councillor Sonya Warren (Member)   
Clerk Name: Lissa Rowan
Clerk Telephone: 01343563015
Clerk Email: lissa.rowan@moray.gov.uk 
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MORAY COUNCIL 
Minute of Meeting of the Harbours Sub-Committee 
Tuesday, 02 June 2026 
Council Chambers, Council Office, High Street, Elgin, IV30 1BX 
PRESENT 
Councillor James Allan, Councillor Neil Cameron, Councillor Tracy Colyer, Councillor
Amber Dunbar, Councillor Marc Macrae, Councillor Sonya Warren 
IN ATTENDANCE 
Head of Operations and Environment; Interim Service Manager Harbours; and L
Rowan, Committee Services Officer 
1         Chair 
Councillor Macrae chaired the meeting. 
2         Declaration of Group Decisions and Members Interests 
In terms of Standing Orders 21 and 23 of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct, there
were no declarations from Group Leaders or Spokespersons regarding any prior
decisions taken on how Members will vote on any item on the agenda or any
declarations of Member’s interests in respect of any item on the agenda.    
3         Minutes of meeting dated 17 March 2026 
The Minute of the meeting of the Harbour Sub Committee dated 17 March 2026 was
submitted and approved.   
4         Written Questions 
The Committee noted that no written questions had been submitted.    
5         Compliance Summary 
The meeting had before it a report by the Executive Director Economy, Enterprise and
Operations informing the Sub-Committee on matters of Marine Safety and
compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC). 
Item 3.
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During discussion surrounding the informal update outlining progress in relation to
compliance with the Port and Marine Facilities Safety Code that had been expected
prior to 31 March 2026, it was noted that this had not been issued. 
In response, the Head of Operations and Environment explained that final
compliance actions were only concluded on 29 and 30 March 2026 and, due to
operational pressures, priority had been given to achieving compliance. 
Councillor Cameron thanked the Head of Operations and Environment for the
explanation and moved that the Sub-Committee agree the recommendations as
printed. 
During further discussion, clarification was sought on the role of the Designated
Person in providing assurance of compliance to the Duty Holder. 
In response, the Head of Operations and Environment advised that the Duty Holder is
responsible for declaring compliance, with the Designated Person providing
independent advice, identifying areas for improvement and highlighting potential
non-compliance. It was further noted that Members may seek advice directly from
the Designated Person and that they can attend the Harbour Sub-Committee if
necessary. 
Councillor Warren sought assurance from Officers in relation to the resilience of the
operating model, the sufficiency of governance and compulsory pilotage at Buckie
Harbour which were answered by Officers and thereafter seconded Councillor
Cameron’s motion to agree the recommendations as printed within the report. 
The Chair highlighted key safety messages within the report regarding risks
associated with entering the water from piers, cold water shock, paddleboarding
activity, and the use of drones within harbour areas. 
Thereafter, the Sub-Committee agreed to: 
(i) note that the Head of Operations and Environment, in consultation with the
Chair of Harbour Sub Committee, declared compliance with the PMSC on 31
March 2026; and 
(ii) approve the policy documents and amendments to the Marine Safety
Management System referenced and included in the appendices to the report. 
6         Marine Safety and Operational Summary for Quarter 4 2025-26 
The meeting had before it a report by the Executive Director Economy, Enterprise and
Operations informing the Sub-Committee on matters of Marine Safety and
compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC) for Quarter 4 2025/26. 
During their introduction, the Head of Operations and Environment advised that the
report covered the period up to 31 March 2026 and that following a request at the
previous meeting, a glossary of abbreviations had been included within the report to
help understanding, and that this would be a standing appendix in future reports. 
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The Sub-Committee noted the recent cruise vessel activity at Buckie Harbour and
commended the harbour team for the successful handling of this noting that this was
well organised and efficient. 
In response to questions regarding pilotage sufficiency, the Interim Service Manager
Harbours advised that there is currently one authorised pilot supported by trainees,
and that this is sufficient for current levels of activity. It was acknowledged, however,
that should vessel traffic increase, this could present a risk. Training of additional
pilots had been slowed during the reporting period due to reduced vessel movements
but had since resumed as activity levels increased. 
In relation to the weighbridge and Pier 1 repairs at Buckie Harbour, it was queried
whether the weighbridge was fully operational and whether the delay to the repairs on
Pier 1 was having an impact on operational matters. 
In response, the Head of Operations and Environment confirmed that the weighbridge
is fully operational, with only minor improvements required subject to available
funding. In respect of Pier 1 repairs, members were advised that works had been
paused to enable ongoing timber export operations, and that this was considered the
correct operational decision to support commercial activity. 
Regarding dredging activity across Moray Harbours, it was confirmed that dredging
undertaken during the period related to maintenance which was necessary to
maintain channel depths and support existing vessel traffic. It was emphasised that
the primary objective of the current programme is to maintain operational capacity
and ensure continuity of commercial activity rather than to increase capacity. 
Updates were provided on dredging works at individual harbours, and it was
confirmed that dredging had been carried out at Burghead, with approximately 1,200
tonnes of material removed to date and further works scheduled. Members also
noted progress in relation to the land dredging application for Hopeman, which has
been submitted to the Marine Directorate and is awaiting approval. 
During discussion surrounding the increase in incident and near-miss reporting,
assurance was sought that this was a result of reporting confidence rather than a rise
in incidents. 
In response, the Interim Service Manager Harbours clarified that the increase is
attributable to a stronger reporting culture rather than a deterioration in safety. 
Councillor Cameron thanked the Harbour Team for their continued work and moved
that the Sub-Committee agree the recommendations as printed.  This was seconded
by the Chair. 
There being no-one otherwise minded, the Sub-Committee agreed to note the: 
(i) reported progress against the KPIs for the Marine Safety Plan 2025-2028,
fulfilling their function as Duty Holder under the Port Marine Safety Code
(PMSC) as set out in paragraphs 4.8 and 4.9 of the report; and 
(ii) contents of the report. 
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Report to: Harbours Sub
Committee 
Meeting Date: 15 September 2026  
Report by: Executive Director Economy, Enterprise and Operations 
Author: Cameron MacPhail  Contact
Email:
cameron.macphail@moray.gov.uk 
Subject: Marine Safety and Operational Summary for Quarter 1 2026/27 
1.  PURPOSE 
☒ For Decision      ☐  For Information 
1.1  The purpose of this report is to inform the Harbour Sub Committee (HSC) on matters of
Marine Safety and compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC) for Quarter 1
2026/27. 
1.2  This report is submitted to the Harbour Sub Committee in terms of Section III (F) (25) of the
Council's Scheme of Administration relating to the functions of Council as Statutory
Harbour Authority (SHA). 
2.  SUMMARY  
2.1  The report sets out safety and key operational indicators for the harbours, a financial
overview, reports against the Marine Safety Plan KPIs and the progress towards
compliance with the Port and Marine Facilities Safety Code. 
3.  RECOMMENDATIONS 
3.1  It is recommended that the Sub Committee:   
i)  note the reported progress against the KPIs for the Marine Safety Plan 2025-
2028, fulfilling their function as Duty Holder under the Port Marine Safety
Code (PMSC) (para 4.8 and 4.9) and 
ii)  consider the contents of the report. 
Cameron MacPhail
Interim Service Manager Harbours 
Item 5.
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4.  PORT & MARINE FACILITIES SAFETY CODE 
4.1  Under the requirements of the Port & Marine Facilities Safety Code (PMSC) the Council
must appoint a Duty Holder to ensure that compliance with the PMSC is achieved.  The
role of Duty Holder is held by members of this Sub Committee. 
4.2  The Harbour Authority appoints a suitably qualified person to act as the Designated
Person (DP) – their function is to provide independent assurance that the Marine Safety
Management System is working effectively and to audit compliance with the PMSC.  The
DP role is currently undertaken by ABPmer. 
4.3  As a matter of good practice, a further audit by the Designated Person is planned for
autumn 2026. 
4.4  A glossary of marine terms used in this report is attached at Appendix 1. 
4.5  The Marine Safety Plan 
Following approval of the Marine Safety Plan by this Sub-Committee on 22 October 2025
(para 4 of the minute refers), the agreed KPIs for the 2025-2028 period are shown in the
table below with the latest results. The plan is based upon marine safety management
requirements, conservancy requirements, compliance requirements, the financial
situation, growth potential, harbours user and community consultation. 
The HSMS was updated with minor amendments during the period following Sub
Committee approval June 2026 to reflect correct role titles and departments. 
1. Full compliance with the
Port Marine Safety Code. 
KPI indicator:  No non compliances reported
against the PMSC audit. 
Update July 2026 No non compliance against PMSC
2. Incident reporting improved.  KPI indicator:  Improved near miss
reporting methodologies with
better public access to reporting
systems. 
Update July 2026 Significant improvement in
reporting.  New internal incident
logging system in place to improve
recording and investigations.    
Incidents investigated within 2
weeks of the date reported. 
Update July 2026 All incidents investigated within
time limit.
3. Harbour
infrastructure maintained to
ensure all commercial
contracts can be fulfilled. 
KPI indicator:  No reported delays to commercial
contracts due to infrastructure
issues. 
Update July 2026 No reported issues   
KPI indicator:  AtoN availability in accordance
with NLB reporting requirements 
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Update July 2026 AtoN availability is currently at
100% for quarter.  3 year rolling
NLB availability last reported an
average across all sectors of CAT 1
97.45% and CAT 2 99.65%   
KPI indicator:  Commercial quayside lighting at
100% availability 
Update July 2026 100% availability   
KPI indicator:  Pilot boat availability at 95%. 
Update July 2026 100% availability   
KPI indicator:  Commercial quays and
approaches dredged to declared
depths for commercial customers. 
Update July 2026 100% availability
4. Harbour staff competent in
their core roles. 
KPI indicator:  Competence matrix measured at
competent or awaiting
assessment, for all staff with more
than six months service. 
Update July 2026 100% for the quarter – training
delivery for 26/27 underway   
KPI indicator:  All Duty Holders completed training
within 6 months of appointment 
Update July 2026 As complete 
5. Traffic management reviews
conducted for all harbours, to
minimise risk between all types
of harbour user. 
KPI indicator:  Traffic management reviewed by
March 2027. 
Update July 2026 In progress – discussions held with
roads team. 
KPI indicator:  Actions from traffic management
plans in place by March 2028. 
Update July 2026 In progress
6. Harbours Website updated.  KPI indicator:  New website to include all relevant
compliance, navigational and
conservancy information, including
the MSP and reported progress
against the plan. 
Update July 2026 In progress- HM and HSM
discussed options. Target
completion December 2026.
7. Leisure berth occupancy
maximised 
KPI indicator:  No unsold leisure berths 
Update July 2026 Zero unsold berths   
KPI indicator:  Waiting lists numbers above zero
for all harbours 
Update July 2026 Waiting list in place
8. Harbour quayside space
used to maximise, safety,
community benefit and income
at all harbours. 
KPI indicator:  One improvement or service
provided following suggestions by
the relevant Harbour User Groups,
implemented at, Burghead,
Hopeman, Findochty, Portknockie
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and Cullen Harbours by March
2027. 
Update July 2026 Alternative storage sites
being sought to free up quayside
space for initiative options 
5. FINANCIAL REPORT 
5.1 At the end of Q1 Marine Services whilst still reporting an operating surplus, is  at a £43k
negative variance to budget. This principally relates to a shortfall in income. Whilst there
are some timing issues on invoicing, the most notable influence is the impact of reduced
whisky production, with no malt cargo in the first quarter of 26/27. The stevedore and
shipping agent have been looking at alternative cargo business, and the harbour has
benefited from some timber wharfage and transport. 
6. OPERATIONAL REPORT 
6.1 Operational Report 
Incidents Reported 
2024/25 Injuries Incidents Near Misses
Q1 0 2 0
Q2 1 0 0
Q3 0 1 0
Q4 0 0 0
Total 1 3 0
2025/26   
Q1 0 0 0
Q2 1 0 0
Q3 0 0 0
Q4 0 1 3
Total 1 1 3
2026/2027   
Q1 0 1 5
Q2   
Q3   
Q4   
Total 0 1 5 
6.2 Incident reporting and near miss reporting remains low but noted another significant
improvement in reporting by users. Initiatives recently communicated to harbour users
has seen one incident and five near miss reported. 
6.3 One reported incident the MV Selkie making contact with a fishing boat within Buckie
harbour during manoeuvring for dredge operations. Incident was investigated and
mitigations put in place. Near miss reports included lack of water for vessel arrival at
Hopeman, person fishing and striking vessel, persons playing on sandbank, and
paddleboarder near misses reported at the June Harbour User meetings. The MSP
includes and monitors this initiative, reporting accordingly. 
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6.4 Harbour Noticeboards have been updated to encourage users to report any incidents and
near misses. The forthcoming harbours website development will also promote a positive
safety and reporting culture. 
6.5 Pilotage and Shipping 
Pilotage is not compulsory at Buckie harbour, or any Moray Council Harbour, and therefore
not all cargo movements require the services of a pilot. The number of pilotage acts
carried out in the last 3 months (Q1) is: 
Period Vessel movements Piloted vessel movements   
FY 25/26 Q1 24 12
FY 25/26 Q2 24 17
FY 25/26 Q3  14 4
FY 25/26 Q4 6 2
FY 26/27 Q1 10 10 
6.6 In order to increase resilience in pilotage a new trainee pilot has been engaged.  Due to
lack of vessel movements limited pilot trips have been undertaken. Currently there is one
authorised pilot (daytime only) and two trainee pilots. One trainee pilot is due for
authorisation over the upcoming vessel movements to provide further resilience to the
pilot service.   
6.7 The harbour workboat, which is also coded for pilot boat use, is fully operational. The ‘old’
Pilot Vessel ‘Pioneer’ was identified as a liability for the Moray Council and subsequently
sold and transfer to new owner taken place. Vessel removed from Buckie Harbour.   
6.8 Commercial shipping numbers remain low compared to previous years, but increased
from 25/26 Q4 movements. Buckie harbour handled five cruise vessels (three anchored
and tendered into Buckie) which received positive support from the community.  The
export of timber continues from basin one with three timber vessels during the period,
which will continue into Q2 and Q3. Buckie harbour also handled two ‘project cargo’
vessels.  An aggregate and project cargo export are due over the coming months. 
6.9
Staffing, Training and Competence 
Harbours staff training requirements for 2026/2027 complete and issued. Key focus area is
to support the current Harbour Master to achieve their Harbour Master certification and
support the Selkie full time engineer to attain their Advanced Powerboat certification to
support the ongoing manning on the Selkie.  Harbour staff require to undertake review of
DFT training material for familiarity. 
6.10 Staffing of the work/pilot boat remains a challenge, but is being managed effectively by the
Harbour Master. The forthcoming training requirement for 26/27 includes staff training to
mitigate this issue. This is in accordance with the staff competency matrix which is now
linked to National Occupational Standards for the sector. 
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6.11 Watchman on Duty 24/7 request a review of working pattern.. Currently the watchmen
operate continental shifts (8hrs) and request review of 12hr shifts. Harbour Master and
HSM undertaking review to assess viability and options. 
7. CONSERVANCY 
7.1 Aids to Navigation 
The tables below summarise the availability of Navigational lights under Moray Council’s
responsibility.  All navigation lights across all harbours are either solar powered or run
through the street lighting systems.  A new sector light at Buckie has been installed and
testing is required prior to approval/sanction from NLB and NTM issued. 
Figure 1. Availability during the last 12 months 
7.2 The ‘Availability Objective’ is calculated over a rolling 36 month period. This means that
over this period a Cat 1 Aid to Navigation needs to be functional for 99.8% of the time, Cat
2 Aids to Navigation 99%. The updated availability information has been reflected in the
KPI report. 
7.3 Burghead AtoN was changed out during period and supports the increase in availability.
The new Buckie sector light will further support the rise in availability figures with changes
being undertaken to a number of lights at Buckie. 
7.4
Dredging 
MV Selkie has completed her 5 yearly MCA recertification – including in water and out
water surveys by the MCA . The Selkie was certified on 14 April 2026 by the MCA. The
Selkie currently operates under Workboat Code 2, the MCA has provided the Selkie with
certification until April/May 2027 instructing a gap analysis to be carried out of Workboat
Code 3 requirements and outputs shared with the MCA before December 2026 for
approval. Initial engagement with the yard and builder indicates the changes are very
minor but full assessment is to be finalised. 
7.5 There were a number of minor defects reported with the excavator during the last quarter. 
The inspection regime has been increased to monthly and components identified to be at
risk of failure (the main cause of breakdown) are now exchanged prior to failure, outside of
the crewed the operational cycle of the vessel. 
7.6 This improves vessel availability and the cost efficiency per tonne of dredged material. The
aim is to also improve operational availability. Moray Council Fleet services currently 
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support the inspection, planned maintenance and repair of the excavator and have
planned dates to attend and undertake inspections until October 2026. 
7.7 Dredger working Days
Year Working
Days 
Weather
Delay Days 
Maintenance
Days 
Working
Day % 
Tonnage
Removed
26/27 (Q1) 21 9 6 59 2748
25/26  70 22 43 52 11180
24/25 32 12 91 24 9012
23/24 62 58 28 42 8472
22/23 94 68 46 46 12880
21/22 77 62 59 39 14120
20/21 38 14 47 39 11240 
7.8 It is pleasing to report continued improvement through Q1 of dredging operations, building
on the work done in 25/26. The dredging requirement for all harbours was kept under
continuous monitoring by the Harbour Master for any requirements.  Note: no dredging
was undertaken between 1 January 2026 and 30 April 2026. Working % is from May to
June. Working days does not include MacDuff contract dredge. 
7.9 Tonnage removed per harbour during 2026/2027 YTD 
Harbour  Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4
Buckie  1298 0 0 0
Burghead 1450 0 0 0
Findochty 0 0 0 0
Portnockie 0 0 0 0
Hopeman 0 0 0 0
Cullen 0 0 0 0 
7.10 Dredging at Buckie is to planned depth and regularly checked by the harbour staff.     
7.11 A dredge campaign for all harbours has been detailed by the Harbour Master and
commenced May 2026 at Buckie Harbour. The current dredge programme consists of 34
days, commenced May 2026. The Selkie has a planned dredge programme covering Q2
26/27 in place. 
7.12 The operational ambition remains to lower the depth of the approaches, then resurvey
prior to submitting the survey data and updating the charted depth. Then to maintain this
lower depth and the accessibility of the harbour at as wide a range of the tide as is
practicable. 
7.13 On completion of current dredge programme, a full bathymetric survey of all harbours
shall be undertaken and promulgated to users. This will also allow a full review of current
depths to be assessed, and areas identified for further dredging. 
7.14 An application for land-based dredging and beach replenishment disposal is being
progressed for Hopeman harbour. Marine Directorate (MD-LOT) licence for land-based
dredge submitted to MD-LOT June 2026. Discussions ongoing with MD-LOT and next steps. 
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The Moray Harbours wider dredge licence renewal process is due to commence in near
future as current dredge licences expire Feb/March 2027. Renewal process will require
new sampling analysis and methodology submission to MD-LOT. 
7.15 Selkie has also carried out 3rd party dredge works in 2026 generating additional income.
There have been approaches to carry out works for other harbours which have been
accepted with a planned dredge programme July/August. Moray Harbours dredge
programme will remain a priority before external dredge contracts. 
7.16 Infrastructure 
The capital plan is addressing the harbour wall infrastructure issues raised by the routine
periodic surveys. Some further items of infrastructure may need to be brought into this
routine survey programme, such as bollard surveys. This will add additional pressure to
the maintenance budget. 
7.17 The recent engineering survey at Portknockie exposed greater structural degradation of
middle pier than expected. Engineer planning continues for structural improvements.  It is
intended to restrict access to berth holders only whilst repairs are pending due to the
uneven surface. Pontoon assessment with contractor underway to address the reduced
berthing capacity at Portknockie to deliver successful outcome with pontoons stored at
Buckie Harbour. Ladder replacement programme also underway in conjunction with
structural works. 
7.18 The ends of the west and north quays at Cullen are also showing signs of structural
degradation following recent storms. Again, access may need to be restricted for safety
reasons whilst the extent of the required repairs is assessed. If this presents any material
restriction for users then appropriate communications with harbour users and councillors
will be put in place. 
7.19 Anchors and pontoons were reset at Findochty following movement. Safety chains remain
on pontoon to assess movement. Safety chains shall be removed once satisfied no further
movement. 
7.20 Buckie Harbour Pier 1 joint repairs ongoing. Work to the repairs delayed due to timber
cargo shipment at berth 1. 
7.21  Harbours team continue to undertake regular inspections of assets and undertake minor
maintenance (painting) and pressure washing of pontoons. 
8. OTHER UPDATES 
8.1 Laurie Piper has been appointed as Service Manager – Harbours. 
9. SUMMARY OF IMPLICATIONS 
9.1 The table below shows whether risks and implications apply if the recommendations are
agreed: 
SUBJECT YES NO
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Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcome Improvement Plan)  x
Policy and Legal x 
Financial x 
Risk x 
Staffing  x
Best Value and Transformation  x
Property x 
Information Communications Technology/Digital            x
Equalities. Social Inclusion and Economic Impact            x 
Climate Change and Biodiversity Impact  x 
9.2 Corporate Plan and 10 Year Plan (Local Outcomes Improvement Plan (LOIP))
Improved Collaborative Leadership, as part of continuous improvement through Best
Value, will better enable the Council to fulfil the ambitions set out in its strategic plans. 
a) Links to Council Corporate Plan – The proposals in this report support and
contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the following
Council Plan strategic priorities:
☐ Tackle Poverty and Inequality.
☐ Build Stronger Greener Vibrant Economy.
☐ Build Thriving, resilient, empowered Communities.   
b) Links to Local Outcomes Improvement Plan – The proposals in this report
support and contribute to improved outcomes for communities as outlined in the
following Local Outcomes Improvement Plan priorities:
☐ Developing a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable economy
☐ Building a better future for our children and young people in   Moray.
☐ Empowering and connecting communities.
☐ Improving wellbeing of our population   
9.3 Policy and Legal 
The Council aims to run the harbours in compliance with the PMSC and within the
legislative framework set out for harbours. Non compliance with the code will have legal
implications.  
9.4 Financial 
Non compliance with the code may have financial implications. 
9.5 Risk 
Non compliance with the PMSC could result in the prosecution of the authority. 
9.6 Staffing 
There are no staffing implications arising from the report.  
9.7 Best Value and Transformation 
N/A  
9.8 Property 
No property implications arise from the report.
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9.9 Information Communications/Technology/Digital 
No ICT implications arise from the report.  
9.10 Equalities, Social Inclusion and Economic Impact  
There are no impacts arising from this report.  While no significant long term adverse
impacts have been identified, the report highlights several operational matters that may
have indirect shorter term impacts on harbour users and coastal communities. Temporary
infrastructure restrictions, harbour access arrangements and future financial pressures may
affect berth holders, local businesses and users with protected characteristics. These
impacts will need to be mitigated through user consultation, proportionate safety measures,
accessible communications and consideration of alternative arrangements where
practicable to ensure limited affects from reduced harbour business affecting local small
businesses. The improvements in marine safety, incident reporting, infrastructure
maintenance and navigation safety are expected to have positive impacts for all harbour
users, including children and vulnerable individuals. 
Does the proposal have the
potential to affect people from the
below categories differently to the
wider Moray population: 
Yes Maybe No 
Positive Negative Positive Negative 
Any protected characteristics
individuals or groups (Equality Act
2010)
☐ ☐ ✓ ✓ ☐
Any socio-economic disadvantaged
individuals or groups – i.e. low / no
income / wealth or deprivation
☐ ☐ ✓ ✓ ☐
Human Rights of individuals ☐ ☐ ✓ ✓ ☐
Rights of Children or Young People
(UNCRC)
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ✓
JUSTIFICATION - Please provide a brief justification statement explaining why the
above boxes have been selected 
9.11 Climate Change and Biodiversity Impacts 
There are no climate change and biodiversity implications arising from this report. 
10. CONSULTATION  
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10.1 This report has been prepared in consultation with the Executive Director Economy,
Enterprise and Operations, Head of Operations and Environment, Service Manager Legal
Services, Senior Engineer (Flood Risk Management), Principal Climate Change Officer,
Equalities Officer and L Rowan, Committee Services Officer and any comments made
have been incorporated into the report 
11 BACKGROUND PAPERS  
11.1 N/A   
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Appendix 1 – Glossary
Word / Abbreviation Meaning
Aid to Navigation any device, system, or service, external to
a vessel or aircraft, designed to enhance
safe and efficient navigation by helping
mariners determine their position,
determine a safe course, or warn them of
dangers and obstructions. Common
examples include buoys, lighthouses,
beacons, and electronic signals (AIS)
Chart Datum Chart Datum is defined as the sea level
that is so low the tide will not frequently
fall below it. In the United Kingdom, this
level is typically the level of the Lowest
Astronomical Tide
Conservancy The duty of a harbour authority to
maintain a port or harbour in a condition
that is safe for navigation. This duty
requires ensuring the harbour is fit for use
by vessels and providing users with
necessary information about conditions,
such as depths and hazards
DP / Designated Person an independent individual or organization
appointed by a port or harbour authority
to provide assurance that their marine
safety management system is working
effectively and is compliant with national
standards
LOA Length Overall - the maximum length of a
vessel's hull measured parallel to the
waterline, from the foremost point of the
bow to the aftermost point of the stern
LOLER Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment
Regulations 1998, a set of UK safety
regulations designed to ensure that
equipment used to lift people or loads is
safe, properly planned, and thoroughly
examined
MCA Maritime and Coastguard Agency 
MSMS Marine Safety Management System
(occasionally referred to a HSMS /
Harbour Safety Management System)
PMSC Port and Marine Facilities Safety Code
SOSREP Secretary of State’s Representative: a
skilled and experienced individual with
full authority of government to provide
strategic oversight of a maritime incident
on behalf of Government. 
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