The conditions of access to this Cotentin port denounced by boaters

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The port of Portbail (Manche) is not not very easy to access for those who don't know him well. On the one hand due to sandbanks which move with the tides, and on the other hand because the dike which runs along the east channel submersible by large coefficients.

To help boaters, wooden poles are placed all along the dike and remain visible, whatever the water level. But these poles are wearing out, some have disappeared and it is very urgent to upgrade this safety equipment.

Almost four years ago, the equipment was purchased by the department and is stored in the port premises. The request was renewed in December 2023 and, some time later, the request was refused, arguing that responsibility lies with the SPL, manager of the facilities, and not with Phares et Balises.

“Insignificant port”

Michel Dubois, president of the Portbail boaters' association, says he regrets that the port which still counts 285 anchorages be judged “insignificant port with low and uninteresting traffic” by this public service which also provides excellent services in terms of safety markings.

But the irony is that the red light port entrance installed with the cylindrical beacon on the boom in May 2024 is declared non-compliant by these services which themselves prescribed it and requested its dismantling. This time, it's too much and the boaters' association is wondering whether it should not hire a liability procedure towards Lighthouses and Beacons.

The absence of bright lights for night traffic and poles on the dike makes the dangerous maneuversfor boaters and professional fishermen. Michel Dubois in fact pushes the clamor of Haro (which in Norman law means a manifestation of indignation and injustice) for the troubles suffered by the port.

From our correspondent Judith LACOURS

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