Anglesey Council is resisting calls to re-open the island’s slipways despite claims it would benefit the well-being of local people during the lockdown

Like many attractions and council services, slipways have been closed for vessel launches since the Covid-19 lockdown was introduced in mid-March.

But despite Wales being essentially closed to tourism, one local councillor is calling for their re-opening for the benefit of island residents who would be able to hit the water while maintaining social distancing and the five mile travel guidelines.

Anglesey Council has resisted such calls , however, warning that such a move could send out the wrong signals and encourage people to visit the island despite Wales’ stringer lockdown rules.

Cllr Aled Morris Jones told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “I’m calling on the council to consider opening the slipways so that the people of Anglesey can take their vessels out to sea.

“Of course we must respect the five mile guideline and maintain awareness of the social distancing rules, but it would be a way of allowing local people to use the sea for recreation and a way of getting through these difficult times.”

The Liberal Democrat member for the Twrcelyn ward, added: “This would obviously only be for the benefit of local people, but would help with their well-being and a way to relax during these difficult times.

“We are a maritime county as we are surrounded by the sea, and I believe it makes perfect sense.”

Cemaes community councillor and local harbourmaster, Dafydd Williams, added: “For many people, the best way to relax is to take their vessel out to sea.

“I must say that general compliance with the lockdown so far has been excellent, but can see no reason why those living within five miles can’t enjoy our beautiful coast.

“Its been a very depressing three months for most people, but quite a lot of time has elapsed by now and I think that the council can re-open the slipways by now.”

But Anglesey Council says that doing so would be “unsafe” and could lead to more visitors making their way to the island.

The authority is responsble for a numner of launching points such as Trearddur Bay, Rhosneigr, Rhoscolyn, Bull Bay, Beaumaris, Menai Bridge and Llaneilian.

Interim Head of Regulations and Economic Development, Christian Branch, said:  “The council’s Emergency Management Response Team has determined that, based on the current number of cases of Covid-19, it is unsafe to re-open the slipways as this could encourage a high number of visitors to Anglesey.

“Despite residents being allowed to exercise or participate in a leisure activity within five miles from their home, it would be challenging to manage these facilities safely and to ensure local use only.

“Anglesey’s position is consistent with other local authorities in north Wales.

“However, in preparation for a potential easing in lockdown restrictions, we are reviewing operational and staffing arrangements with a view to re-opening the slipways when it is safe to do so.

“This would include maintaining the necessary distancing measures to ensure any risk of transmission of the virus is controlled and reduced.

“Our main focus will be on ensuring the health and safety of staff and facility users.”