An award-winning marina is going from strength-to-strength, with all berths and commercial units now fully occupied.
All 96 pontoon berths at Seaham Harbour Marina are now occupied by pleasure boats – the first time the facility has been full since the marina was officially opened in July 2013 following a multimillion-pound regeneration programme.
The marina, which is managed by a community interest company led by Durham County Council and Seaham Harbour Dock Company, has also become a popular destination for residents and visitors.
It is home to a variety of cafes, restaurants and shops, along with the East Durham Heritage and Lifeboat Centre and businesses ranging from a travel agent to water sports activities.
All commercial units are currently leased out and the site currently attracts around 500,000 visitors a year.
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “It’s wonderful to see Seaham Harbour Marina full of boats and a wide range of businesses operating from the site.
“The marina is a real asset for County Durham, attracting thousands of visitors, boosting the local economy and preserving the coastline’s maritime heritage.
“Over the last decade, it has developed into a thriving leisure, retail and business hub, and has supported the wider regeneration of Seaham and the Durham Heritage Coast.”
Alan McLardy, 65, has been fishing in the Seaham Dock since he was nine years old and has berthed both commercial and hobby boats in the marina over the years. This includes his current pleasure boat, Katie Jane 2, which is the second to be named after his wife and daughter.
Alan said: “The staff at the marina are great – they will do anything for you and if I go away, I know that my boat is safe and looked after. It’s also a brilliant thing for the local area as it attracts visitors. People can come and try water sports or sit in a café and enjoy the views.”
Kelly Pearson took over Mr Jacob’s Sweet Emporium at Seaham Harbour Marina in August.
“We are a family business and were looking for a new adventure,” she said. “This seemed like the perfect opportunity. My dad is from Seaham and so I know the town and the location was a real draw.
“We’ve had a lovely welcome by all the marina staff and the other businesses. We are just finding our feet but it's a lovely place to work with beautiful views. We are looking forward to the future.”
Seaham Harbour Marina is open 9am to 5pm, seven days a week. To find out more, visit www.seahammarina.com.
