Decision
Analysis
outcome: The recommendation to waive berthing fees was approved.
summary: The decision is whether to waive berthing and associated fees for the tall ship Santa Maria visiting Ramsgate, potentially impacting income for the harbour but increasing tourism and opportunities for local businesses.
topline: The Head of Coastal and Public Realm has decided to waive berthing fees for the tall ship Santa Maria visiting Ramsgate, potentially impacting income for the harbour but aiming to boost tourism and local business opportunities.
reason_contentious: This issue may be contentious as it involves potential loss of income for the harbour versus the benefits of increased tourism and business opportunities.
affected_stakeholders: ["Ramsgate Royal Harbour", "Euro events", "Local businesses", "Tourists"]
contentiousness_score: 5
political_party_relevance: There are no mentions or implications of political parties or political influence on the decision.
URL: https://democracy.thanet.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=5377
Decision Maker: Head of Coastal and Public Realm
Outcome: Recommendations Approved
Is Key Decision?: No
Is Callable In?: No
Purpose:
Content: To waive berthing and other associated fees during the time of Santa Maria visiting Ramsgate at a cost of £687.30. Ramsgate Royal Harbour has been approached by Euro events to host the tall ship Santa Maria. This opportunity, evidenced by similar events in recent years, would see increased tourism and opportunities for local business. The vessel is a commercial business and can only visit Ramsgate if the berthing fees are waived otherwise it is not viable. Waiving the berthing fees for the Santa Marie, although impacting potential income for the harbour, will see increased visitor numbers creating a thriving place for other local business’ and increasing tourism. It was considered whether the Council does not waive the berthing fees. This would mean the vessel would not come to Ramsgate Royal Harbour as it would not be commercially viable to the company. For this reason this option was discounted.
Date of Decision: May 22, 2025