Business Under Threat

A LONG-established local marine business says it has been left with no choice but to relocate after being told it cannot return to Leigh Marina.
Angus Browne, Director of Brownes Ventures Ltd, which operates Brownes Thames Estuary Boat Trips and Brownes Marine Services, has confirmed he has received formal written confirmation from Thamescraft Limited that his permission to occupy a berth at Leigh Marina has been terminated and that he is not permitted to return without prior written consent.
Mr Browne has operated commercial marine services from Leigh for many years, providing sightseeing trips, sea fishing charters, scattering of ashes ceremonies, commercial workboat services and supporting tourism along the Thames Estuary.
Speaking following receipt of the letter, Mr Browne said: “This is an incredibly sad day for me and my business.”
“Leigh Marina has been my base for many years, and I’ve invested countless hours building a professional marine business that brings visitors to Leigh-on-Sea and supports the local economy.
“I’ve always wanted to work with the marina and see it improve. My concerns have consistently been about improving facilities, maintaining safe access, ensuring adequate dredging and creating a marina that benefits everyone – berth holders, commercial operators and visitors alike.
“I have never wanted conflict. I simply wanted to run my business professionally and continue serving my customers from Leigh.”
The decision means Brownes Ventures Ltd will now aim to continue operating from alternative locations whilst maintaining its scheduled boat trips and commercial marine operations.
Mr Browne says he remains committed to the local area despite the setback: “Leigh-on-Sea is my home and I remain passionate about promoting our coastline, history and maritime heritage. I will continue supporting local tourism and providing high-quality experiences for customers, even if that now has to be from elsewhere.”
Recently, Mr Browne’s vessel Starfish required emergency repairs and was lifted out of the water by Dauntless Boatyard.
“The support I received from Dauntless Boatyard was outstanding. Within just a few hours of contacting them, my vessel was safely ashore with a professional team ready to help. It showed me what excellent customer service looks like.”
Mr Browne hopes the situation will encourage wider discussion about the future of Leigh Marina and the role of local commercial marine businesses.”
Brownes Ventures Ltd says it hopes to remain operational and continue offering Thames Estuary boat trips, sea fishing charters, commercial marine services and scattering of ashes ceremonies from its alternative operating locations whilst pursuing new opportunities.
Oliver Keal, Director of Thamescraft Limited said: “As this relates to a private contractual matter, it wouldn’t be appropriate for me to comment on the circumstances of any individual berth holder.
“More generally, Thamescraft Limited remains committed to investing in Leigh Marina and building a strong, safe and thriving maritime community for the benefit of all berth holders, businesses and visitors.
“We also welcome the recent formation of the Leigh Marina Berthing Association and look forward to working constructively with its members.
“As with any marina, all berth holders are expected to comply with the marina’s rules and licence conditions to help ensure the safe and orderly operation of the site for everyone.”
Picture: Angus Browne, Director of Brownes Ventures Ltd
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