A long-established water sports business in Christchurch has said it was kicked out by the council after a contract was awarded to another business.
The owners of Shoresports in Mudeford Quay have been frustrated with the BCP’s advice after the watersports tender was offered to another operator who they believe will not offer the same sports as them.
Nick May, owner of Shoresports for 11 years, said his business offers a variety of water activities that residents and tourists enjoy, but he said BCP does not consider sailing and windsurfing to be essential activities. .
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He said: “These are fundamental sports on the south coast so locals and tourists expect to be able to hire the latest kit and receive professional tuition.
“Who will meet this need as there is no one else in the locality of Christchurch. The new provider has confirmed that they absolutely will not offer this.
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“The new supplier will not improve or increase activity at Mudeford Dock, but limits the range of sports and therefore does not meet the original criteria.”
Mr May added he was “sympathetic” to the board’s decision-making, saying Covid and BCP’s merger in 2019 meant they faced time and financial pressures.
Shore sports at Mudeford Quay (Picture: Shoresports)
He and his wife Kathryn appealed the PCO Board’s decision to award the tender to another party and they also started an online petition.
He added that he had recently spent £30,000 on new equipment and feared it would all go to waste after the council’s decision.
“Shoresports had offered double what it had paid, and had hoped not to overpay to keep base costs lower in order to continue to pass on good value (low prices, quality equipment and well-paid staff) to customers. and continue to donate through its profits to charity,” he added.
“We told the board they were open to negotiations if price was their only concern.”
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A BCP Council spokeswoman said: “The watersports concession at Mudeford Quay was originally awarded to Shoresports for a fixed term, which ends in March 2023.
“The council has therefore launched an open tender to select an operator for a further three-year term starting in April 2023.
“The bidding process aims to ensure the best possible service and financial results for local people.
“We have selected a preferred bidder and are currently performing standard due diligence before issuing a contact.”
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