New fish market at Newlyn gets the MMO go-ahead

The Marine Management Organisation has given its go-ahead for a grant-supported project to build a new fish market at Newlyn, with construction commencing in the autumn of this year, reports Phil Lockley.

Above: Newlyn Harbour Master Rob Parsons with Darren Williams, MD of Project Link (right).

Fishing News was told how Newlyn Harbour Commissioners were successful in securing EU funding and were ‘using this opportunity to review how the market operates,’ said Newlyn Harbour Master, Rob Parsons.

He said: “The Commission is steadfast in ensuring that it provides the best facilities it can for the fishing industry. This may include a second auctioneer and perhaps even a remote buying platform, but that’s for the future.

“At present, we are keen to get the market started and any buying platform will form additional funding applications through EMFF, but that’s not yet. As stated, we will be getting the present market refurbished and reviewing our practices in due course.”

Having sought tenders for the work, Project Link, a West Country business based in Ilfracombe was chosen. “The firm has a considerable track record in the construction business within the fishing industry,” Rob Parsons added.

Internal view of the present Newlyn fishmarket – only the outer steel frame will remain in the new market building.

“Having been in the position of Newlyn harbour master for around three years, during all that time, and before, a mandate for a new fish market was in place, and the Commissioners are pleased that we can at last address the need for the improved facilities. As stated, the building work will commence in the autumn and right now, Project Link and I are looking at the scope of work in more detail and ensuring that we can maintain business as usual during the building works,” said Mr Parsons.

Darren Williams, MD of Project Link, explained: “Project Link is pleased to be involved with Newlyn Harbour Commissioners and will co-ordinate and carry out construction of the new fish market from start to finish; its design, all of the work involved in planning, and full construction.

“This project is what’s known as a ‘live site’ – having to remain in operation throughout the build – so construction of the new fish market will be in phases. We will work on one half of the building, while fish auctions will continue in the remainder. We are well used to working in a live-site environment; it is commonplace with food companies.”

To be built on the footprint of the existing market, the only part of the present structure that will remain in the new market, is the steel framing. The build is expected to take no more than 12 months.

More details in Fishing News soon.

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