A long-established watersports business in Christchurch says it was forced out by the council after a deal was struck with another company.
The owners of Mudeford Quay’s Shoresports have left the BCP Council unhappy after their watersports bid was offered to another operator who they claim doesn’t offer the same sport as them.
Nick May, 11-year owner of Shoresports, said his business currently offers a variety of water sports activities that both residents and tourists enjoy, but BCP has added sailing and windsurfing. He claimed that he did not consider it an essential activity.
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Shore Sports at Mudford Quay (Image: Shore Sports)
he said:
“There is no one else in Christchurch, who will meet this need.
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“While the new provider will not enhance or increase activity at Mudford Quay, it does limit the range of sports and therefore does not meet the original standards.”
May added he was “sympathetic” to the council’s decision and said the merger of Covid and BCP in 2019 means it faces time and financial pressures.
Shore Sports at Mudford Quay (Image: Shore Sports)
He and his wife Kathryn have also launched an online petition, appealing the BCP Council’s decision to award the bid to another political party.
He recently spent £30,000 on new equipment and added he was worried it would all go to waste after the council’s decision.
“Shoresports will not overpay to keep basic costs low in order to provide double what we were paying and continue to provide good value to our customers (low prices, quality equipment, well-paid staff). I was hoping that it would benefit the charity,” he added.
“We have told the council that if price is the only concern, there is room for negotiation.”
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A spokeswoman for the BCP Council said:
“Accordingly, the Council has conducted an open tender to select an operator for a new three-year term starting in April 2023.
“The bidding process is aimed at ensuring the best possible service and economic outcomes for local people.
“We have selected preferred bidders and are currently going through standard due diligence checks before contacting them.”
