New Board members sought to support development of Newlyn Harbour
Newlyn Pier & Harbour Commissioners (NP&HC) are seeking three exceptional individuals to join its Board at a pivotal point in the Port’s history.
Newlyn Harbour is the cornerstone of the Cornish fishing industry, with a unique heritage spanning more than 140 years. As one of the largest fishing ports in England, the Harbour supports Cornwall’s fishing fleet, champions the superlative quality of Cornish fish, provides services and facilities to local marine industries, welcomes visiting mariners and plays an active role in its wider community.
The Port is thriving but the Harbour Commissioners are preparing to deliver an ambitious phase of growth to ensure that the Newlyn Harbour Estate continues to meet the needs of today’s fishing community as well as future generations to come.
“Our development plan is driven by the changing needs of our core Harbour users, changes in technology, and changes to our climate and environment,” explains NP&HC Chairman, Paul Durkin. “The Harbour Commissioners have outlined a bold vision to upgrade infrastructure to support our local fishing fleet, embrace renewable energy and diversify within the marine sector with the aim of playing a transformational role in the economy of West Cornwall, and maintaining Newlyn’s status as a vibrant hub of economic activity and innovation both now and in the future. We will continue to value and preserve Newlyn’s extraordinary maritime heritage as we focus on projects that will deliver sustainability and opportunity, rewarding careers and regional prosperity.”
This growth has already begun with the development of the Newlyn Marine and Skills Resource Centre, which is due for completion in 2026 and will provide a much-needed centre of excellence for developing maritime expertise in Cornwall.
This project has received £1.75 million from the government’s Town Deal programme. Penzance Town Deal Board, in partnership with Cornwall Council, successfully bid for a Town Deal worth £21.5 million to support a range of projects that will contribute to the regeneration of Penzance and Newlyn, and boost the local economy. As the lead authority for Cornwall Town Deals, Cornwall Council supports the governance role of the Penzance Town Deal Board and administrates the fund.
NP&HC’s phased approach to the development of the Newlyn Harbour Estate also includes reclaiming land at Sandy Cove to create essential industrial units, future-proofing and developing existing infrastructure, and building a protective breakwater.
Harbour Commissioners play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic future of Newlyn Harbour and oversee key organisational and executive activities from ensuring compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code and driving improvements in operational efficiency to building relationships with stakeholders and contributing to effective governance.
“We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds who are motivated, forward-thinking and committed to achieving the full scope of our vision and preserving Newlyn’s rich nautical history,” adds Paul Durkin. “In particular, we seek demonstrable experience of environmental issues, commercial licensed fishing, wholesale fish selling and marine leisure as well as financial expertise, including funding and investment.”
One Commissioner is required for an initial three-year term (renewable for up to three terms), a second Commissioner is required to complete an existing term for renewal on 30th May 2026 (renewable for up to three terms) and a third Commissioner is required for a one-year fixed term (renewable as needed).
For further information, please visit www.publicleadersappointments.com/opportunities/board-member-newlyn-pier-and-harbour-commissioners/
Those interested in applying are invited to contact Anna Jay, Managing Director of Public Leaders Appointments, for a confidential discussion by emailing anna@publicleadersappointments.com or calling 07904 236348.
The closing date for applications is midday on Thursday 13th March 2025.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in an online meeting on Tuesday 18th March and in-person interviews will take place on Wednesday 2nd April 2025.
For further information about Newlyn Harbour, please visit newlynharbour.com
