Infrastructure

Suppose we could make a major increase in marina and moorings capacity in the Solent. Local authority planners would congratulate themselves on meeting a legitimate demand, and on creating yet more jobs. But they could come under fire from local residents because of the increased traffic, perhaps disturbance of a quiet area, and landscape effects of a new yacht harbour. If a more subtle approach is taken by increasing capacity of existing facilities, the car parking issue does not go away, and existing mooring holders may argue that their area is already up to capacity (for example, on the Hamble).

Thus, without even mentioning environmental considerations, it becomes obvious that capacity expansion will be difficult to achieve. But if local government fails to meet a legitimate demand, it could be argued that it is failing in its duty. Quite a conundrum!