PROTESTERS who feared plans to site new moorings near the Wick ferry in Christchurch could hamper other river users have struck a deal with the developers.

At an appeal hearing on Wednesday Bournemouth and West Hampshire Water Company explained its plans to extend the pontoon at the ferry out into the river channel by 40 metres providing an extra 12 boat moorings.

Christchurch Rowing Club had feared the extended pontoon would cut the width of the river's main channel and endanger young boat users in the area.

But the club withdrew its objections after reaching an agreement with BWHWC that the company would tie back the boats on regatta day and the pontoon would not obstruct the channel.

The company, which owns more than 500 moorings on the River Stour and in Christchurch Harbour, has also pledged to give the local canoe club the keys to the pontoon, which they claim would make it easier for youngsters to launch their kayaks.

Chairman of Southbourne Canoe Club, which rents the rowing club's facilities, Chas Couchman admitted the club had opposed an earlier application to build another pontoon at the site, but had no objection to the extension.

"If the rowing club is happy, we're happy," he said.

Bournemouth and West Hampshire Water Company's commercial manager Mike Rhodes said: "It is a positive thing, but perhaps we didn't sell the first planning application enough or involve other people.

"We have tried to solve the situation by involving different groups more and explaining to them the benefits that will come their way."

But he said the plans, which were first put forward two years ago, still face opposition from Standpit and Mudeford Residents' Association, which has lodged an objection.

He added that it could take up to seven weeks for the government inspector to make a decision on the appeal.

First published: October 22