News: Kiting at The Bluff is Back (June 2010)
After 3 years of discussions, meetings and knockbacks, kitesurfing is finally allowed back at The Bluff, Hayle Rivermouth in Cornwall.
Kernow Kitesurf Club and the British Kite Surfing Association have spent the past 3 years trying to resolve the ban and regain access to one of the best flat water kite spots in the UK.
On June 1st the banned signs were taken down and KKC Chairman, Lee Harvey received the first Bluff Pass from new Hayle Harbour Master, Mark Capon.
Initially on a 6 month trial, there is a Code of Conduct in place, which must be signed by every kiter when purchasing a ‘Bluff Pass’ which must be worn on their harness while on the water. To be able to ride within the jurisdiction of Hayle Harbour Authority you must adhere to the Code, hold valid insurance and be a member of the BKSA. Failure to comply with this will result in a fine of up to £1000 and more importantly, lead to a return of an outright ban and forsake all of the hard work put in by the club.
Passes are £5 for KKC members, £10 for BKSA only and run yearly to the 1st April.
They are available from:
- Down The Line, Hayle (Map, TR27 4EA)
- RB Sails, Hayle (Map, TR27 4QZ)
- Lodey Sails, Marazion (Map, TR20 9TT)
- Westcountry Watersports, Truro (Map, TR1 2EG)
- Beach Reps- Lee Harvey (Pasty Adventures), Nathan Bray(ChenPump), Ian Fergi (Pro Creations), Loz Smith (Ocean High)
Chairman of KKC, Lee Harvey says:
“Pulling the signs down on Tuesday was a great moment and a breakthrough for kitesurfing, not just in the UK but the whole World. With this achievement it shows that it is possible to reverse decisions that have been poorly thought out. Kernow Kitesurf Club was formed 2 years ago, as individuals were getting nowhere at fighting the ban. By uniting all the kitesurfers throughout Cornwall we have formed a stronger voice and policy makers are far more likely to take notice of us as an officially recognised club. We aim to protect access to all the kite spots throughout Cornwall and hope that our members will encourage everyone to abide by ‘The Code’ and form a good working relationship with Hayle Harbour, the fishermen and everyone who uses the estuary in the future.”
Steve added:
“We are hopeful in the future we will be able to accommodate learners and have a longer activity window. For now we just need to prove that this licensing agreement can work. We would like to hear from local kiters who can help represent the club on the beach and in doing so will be helping to secure our long term future at this great venue”
Thanks to Jacob Cockle for the pics- www.jacobcockle.com
- 31st May 2010 Bluff Kitesurfing update (PDF).
- Hayle spot guide.