Issue - meetings

Resolved:

1.    Noted the proposed 12 month pilot arrangements for the shared use of the Exeter Port Authority (EPA) rigid inflatable boat (RIB), workboat, associated training provision and plan for the existing Patrol Boat, commencing 1 August 2025;

2.    Approves expenditure of £9,500 as set out in Section 3, to cover the use of EPA vessels, fuel, personal protective equipment, and associated boat cranage and cradle costs;

3.    Received a follow-up report following completion of the 12 month pilot to review outcomes and inform future decision making.

The Committee were asked to consider a proposal for a 12-month pilot arrangement for the shared use of the Exeter Port Authority (EPA) rigid inflatable boat (RIB), workboat, associated training provision and plan for the existing Patrol Boat.  The pilot was expected to commence on the 1 August 2025.

The proposed agreement offered operational and financial advantages compared to the current arrangements:

• Primary use of the Exe Harbour Launch, with the Exe Harbour Workboat available when joint patrols are not feasible or as backup.
• Guaranteed maximum of forty patrol days within a 12-month period.
• Vessels fuelled and maintained in a ready-to-use state.
• Annual provision of four training days with EPA instructors.
• Insurance cover provided by EPA for both vessels.
• All maintenance, servicing, and anti-fouling included in the agreement.
• Greater operational flexibility and responsiveness through use of a RIB.
• Lower risk of damage and easier handling associated with a RIB.
• Potential for resale of the existing SEDW patrol vessel should the pilot prove successful — proceeds could contribute to multiple years of charter fees.
• Savings from the release of the current Exmouth Marina berth, which would no longer be required.

The Committee were pleased with the proposed arrangements and recognised the operational advantages the pilot could yield.

Resolved:

1.     Noted the proposed 12 month pilot arrangements for the shared use of the Exeter Port Authority (EPA) rigid inflatable boat (RIB), workboat, associated training provision and plan for the existing Patrol Boat, commencing 1 August 2025;

2.     Approves expenditure of £9,500 as set out in Section 3, to cover the use of EPA vessels, fuel, personal protective equipment, and associated boat cranage and cradle costs;

3.     Received a follow-up report following completion of the 12 month pilot to review outcomes and inform future decision making.