The search is continuing to find a solution to the problem of silt in Peel marina.

About 3,500 tonnes of silt and stone is brought down in to the harbour each year by the River Neb. It used to be carried out to sea but, since the flapgate was built, it accumulates, eventually obstructing the berths.

Contamination levels have prevented the silt’s disposal at sea this year.

Tim Crookall MLC raised the issue with Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer in Tynwald.

Mr Harmer, who is also a Peel MHK, said: ’Extensive work is currently taking place across government to put in appropriate solutions.

’Analysis of the silt taken from the marina at the beginning of the year has shown that it contains a level of heavy metal contamination, a legacy of historic industrial activity, which ruled out disposal at sea this year.

’As a result, there is no dredging this year.’

The DoI has given a discount on marine fees for the owners of vessels affected.

Mr Harmer said the DoI was ’continuing to explore options to support the maintenance of Peel Marina and restore the impounded area inside the flap gate to its published depths’.

A Peel Marina Project Board has been set up, chaired by department member Tim Baker (Ayre and Michael).

’The terms of reference for this board give a clear focus on trying to get solutions implemented to allow normal operation of Peel Marina in 2018 and 2019, while also considering the long-term future,’ said Mr Harmer.