A successful pilot project in south Devon has led to more abandoned boats being targeted for recycling, according to South Hams District Council.

Boats are frequently abandoned, sunk, or stranded in the Dart, Salcombe-Kingsbridge, and Yealm estuaries, according to the council.

“This is having an environmental and financial impact on the marine community,” it said.

Following the dismantling of an abandoned boat on the Dart in March, the council is now exploring “future opportunities to address the issue on a larger scale”.

The project, in collaboration with Creekside Boatyard in Dartmouth and industry partners, aimed to dismantle a sailing boat and maximise the recycling or reuse of its components.

The council reported that the process was efficient, with valuable lessons learned.

Components salvaged included stainless steel rigging, bronze winches, the boat’s engine, and electronics.

Councillor John McKay, the council’s executive member for climate change and biodiversity, said it wanted to work more closely with “industry partners, harbour authorities, marinas and boat builders”.

He said: “They are the ones who feel more closely the financial and environmental impact of end-of-life boats sitting in their waters and getting in the way of their day-to-day work.”

Residents are encouraged to report abandoned boats to the Royal Yachting Association’s Green Blue website.

The council is now looking at expanding the initiative to address the issue on a larger scale.

 

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