The future of the Egremont in Salcombe is uncertain with opposing parties blaming each other for a lack of progress.

The Egremont Trust and Salcombe Harbour Board are at odds about the future of the Egremont and whether or not its annual mooring will be secure for the next 30 years.

The trust says that the funders for the project do not have sufficient confidence that SHB will renew the ship’s annual mooring licence and says that everything the trust proposes is not welcome.

On Facebook the Egremont Trust said: “Our plan for Egremont is essentially no different to what has been done on board for the last 40 years, it will be just as busy like it used to be.

“We have to comply with all regulations as normal. We will give a financial bond to ensure there are funds available to move the ship if the operation fails.

“Within reason there is nothing that the Egremont team would not amend/change to ensure the operation of the ship fits alongside the objectives of the SHB and is a compliment to Salcombe.

“This cooperative and compliant approach seems to fall on deaf ears leaving everyone wondering why?”

However, SHB claims it has not yet been provided with sufficient business information to be able to positively support the return of the Egremont to a mooring in the harbour.

Cllr Julian Brazil, chairperson of SHB said: “I am very disappointed that we have arrived at this position. The Egremont Trust has consistently failed to produce a detailed business plan.

“In my view it would be grossly irresponsible for the Salcombe Harbour Board to give the go ahead to the Egremont’s return.

“We do not know how the trust intends to raise extra monies. With the amounts of money involved guesswork is just not good enough. The trust knows we will be making a decision on July 16.

“They have the opportunity to persuade us that the return of the Egremont will be compatible with the running of the harbour.

“I suggest they concentrate on producing a detailed business plan rather than trying to rubbish the board through social media and such like.”

More to follow.