02/03/2006 - The Environment
Agency, as Dee Conservancy Authority, has
issued a warning to those fishing in the
Dee estuary to take extra care during the
hours of darkness. With the continuing success
of the A380 Airbus project, the frequency
of wing shipments on the river Dee is increasing.
The specialised Dee River Craft which carries
the wings between Broughton and the Port
of Mostyn now undertakes passages at night.
This is in addition to its regular daytime
movements, in line with increasing production
schedules.
During night inspections of the river between
Flint and Connah’s Quay, the Dee Conservancy
Harbour Master has found unlit craft with
unmarked fishing nets deployed across the
intended track of the Craft. The Dee Conservancy
wants to emphasise the dangers of such activities
and the significant hazards they pose to
those engaged in fishing and to the safe
navigation of the Craft.
The Craft’s sailing times are now posted
around the Dee Estuary on public information
boards located at Point of Ayr, Greenfield,
Connah’s Quay and West Kirby access points.
These are alongside the Notices to Mariners
that are regularly issued by the Harbour
Master.
Those fishing by boat at night must ensure
that they display the lights required by
The International Regulations for Preventing
Collisions at Sea, 1972. They should also
check information about the movements of
the Craft before using nets in or near the
navigation channel used by that vessel.
To obtain further detailed information
on the sailing times of the Craft and for
advice on how to best avoid posing a risk
to either yourself or the Dee River Craft,
contact the Dee Conservancy Harbour Master,
on 0151 632 3355.
