Whitstable Harbour

Whitstable harbour lies on the North Kent coast at the mouth of the River Swale. It is a visible link that Whitstable has with its interesting history, which includes diving, shipbuilding, ship owning, fishing and world-wide trade. The connection with the Canterbury and Whitstable railway - the Crab & Winkle Line - was the reason for the harbour's construction in 1831: to bring heavy materials, such as coal, from Newcastle to Canterbury.

historical

Whitstable's remains a working harbour. On the East Quay, there are Brett's aggregate importation and asphalt production for the construction industry in Kent. On the West Quay, there is fishing as well as wind farm maintenance operations. Fishing and related activities, such as the retailing of the catch, continues on the South Quay.

In addition, leisure and sporting activities have flourished with the sea scouts, yacht, angling, kite and wind-surf activities all based on harbour land, along with the Royal National Lifeboat Institute. Leisure has also developed, from a marine angle, with Greta barge tours and Bay Blast based on the South Quay; and a gastronomic one with cafe, restaurants and market.

Whitstable harbour supports some 100 to 150 full time employees. In addition, and more significantly, the harbour positively contributes to indirect employment and to the economy of the town: it is a major tourist attraction. It also adds to the feeling of well-being for the local community such that they choose to stay within the town to shop and support local businesses. In addition, the harbour is important as it forms an essential part of Whitstable's sea defences.

Whitstable harbour is a municipal one, owned and managed by Canterbury City Council and directed by a Board comprising City Councillors and independent members. A dedicated workforce is responsible for the day-to-day running of the harbour under the management of Harbour Master and Port Manager, Mike Wier.

For several years, the harbour has been financially self-sufficient. Surpluses arising from the harbour's business activities are available for reinvestment in both income-generating projects and non income-generating community facilities.

Strategic Plan

Final version of Strategic Plan

Whitstable Harbour Policies

Further information

Whitstable Harbour is a niche port which accomodates a mix of activities including importation of aggregates, tarmac manufacturing, shellfish processing, ship layby and repair, boat and yacht storage and windfarm maintenance facilities.

A dedicated workforce are responsible for the day-to-day running of the harbour under the management of Harbour Master and Port Manager, Mike Wier.

Whitstable Harbour Events and Meetings

Details of up and coming events and meetings

Events and Meetings

Whitstable Harbour Board

Whitstable Harbour Board oversees the management, maintenance and development of Whitstable Harbour. The board has 11 members including the chairman, six local councillors and five independent members.