Gates have recently been fitted on the jetty in Emsworth, owned by Chichester Harbour Conservancy, due to safety concerns.
The jetty was installed to provide safe landing for boats visiting Emsworth and for tourists boarding harbour boat trips.
Over the years there has been a steady increase in the use of the jetty by the public for leisure, most notably during hot weather.
In recent years, levels of anti-social behaviour and crime including vandalism and threats to staff and visitors has unfortunately increased.
Several options for managing the safe use of the jetty have been trialled including signage, CCTV, education, increased staffing and presence of security officers. These controls were inadequate, and the addition of a temporary gate trialled last year was found to offer the best solution.
We understand that some visitors and residents may be disappointed by the change in access to the jetty. This decision was taken as Chichester Harbour Conservancy have a responsibility to ensure the safe use of the jetty for its intended purpose.