Extreme Measures

Think more boldly! ABP dare not propose the development of North Channel as a straight in route to the port of Southampton. But, if the relevant authorities were to ask ABP to investigate such a possibility, the gains could include

- increased safety by eliminating the Brambles and Calshot turns

- recovery of useful material for habitat construction elsewhere in the Solent

- recovery (probably) of large amounts of aggregate that would reduce the need for sea dredged aggregate from the Channel, and provide partial funding.

Other projects to construct new habitat and harbours in the shallow waters of the Solent could be considered, with aggregate recovery providing a large part of the funding.

Even these ambitious plans are unlikely to meet demand altogether. So the Solent authorities may have to enter into discussions with Poole and maybe even Weymouth to see if significant programmes could be developed in those areas to provide extra facilities.

No doubt, during the process the scope for demand management will be considered. The options that could be considered might include

- promotion of charter operators

- promotion of ‘dry sailing’ facilities

- increased trailer sailer facilities (i.e. launch points)

Schemes for eliminating boats that occupy facilities but are rarely used are likely to fail unless draconian measures are introduced. Boat sharing is a matter of individual choice and is unlikely to increase much beyond present levels. Helping charter is a more effective way of achieving the same result.