Reinstatement of the Slipway at High Knocke

REINSTATEMENT OF THE SLIPWAY AT HIGH KNOCKE

INTRODUCTION

At present there are 3 slipways down onto the beach one near the Oval, one at Martello 23 and one in the centre of the village.

Apart from the central slipway access is limited by the private road on the sea wall to the width of this road. This results in the central slipway taking all traffic for launching of boats and jet skis. To reach the central slipway boat and Jet Ski users must drive up the slope opposite the Arcade which is the main pedestrian access to the beach and cross the promenade.

Dymchurch did have a fourth slipway at High Knocke which was a wooden structure. This was damaged in storms and as a consequence had to be removed for safety reasons.

At the initial public consultation meeting to establish a Parish Plan Committee concerns were expressed about the inadequate access to the beach, and limited slipway facilities. There were calls to re-instate the slipway at High Knocke. This was also supported in the 2004 Questionnaire.

The existing promenade still retains the original approach to the slipway ready for the re-instatement.

HIGH KNOCK TO REDOUBTSEA DEFENCE SCHEME

In November 2004 the Environment Agency presented its plans for new sea defences to the public. Engineering work began in 2005 and is due to finish in 2022. During this time the Environment Agency and its contractors will need to gain access to the beach in order to carry out improvements. An additional slipway will assist them in their operations.

The scheme also incorporates the Environment Agency’s wish to improve the amenity value of the sea defence and address safety issues for those visiting the frontage.

MAIN USERS OF SLIPWAY

The Angling Club have their centre on the sea wall next to the Library, they also keep three tractors garaged to aid launching of their boats. Dymchurch is a popular destination for jet skiers who regularly use the beach. There is no trailer park and trailers are left in the area close to the toilets, which could create a nuisance.

DPPSC PROPOSALS

The slipway at High Knocke should be re-instated. There is an existing trailer park, complete with locking posts adjacent to this which is accessed through Martello 25 car park.

PROJECT PROGRESS

The DPPSC has approached the Environment Agency with its proposals and has gained agreement in principle for this project and they will endeavour to include it in their scheme.