​’The ESG has been contacted in recent days by an affected resident in the area of Mons Calpe Mews with concerns over regular fuel spills and air pollution emanating from petrol stations based at Waterport Wharf.  These busy stations service local and foreign boats and turn over a thriving trade.

From what the ESG has learnt in its investigations, it appears such problems are not new and present issues that could definitely improve  if the following measures were implemented without delay:-

• Ensure enforcement of spill control is applicable to both provider and client vessel when spills occur

• Ensure licence standards conform to highest protection vis a vis pollution, containment of product and filters regime used

• Ensure licence also incorporates todays environmental protection standards to protect marine environment, fire and safety control measures and equipment efficiency

• Ensure that regular inspections of facilities take place by licensing authority (GFRS) and the host  Port Authority,  given the considerable demand for fuel from local and foreign vessels and reports received that this is also causing rising air and water pollution in the area this summer.

The ESG recognises the need for such a fuel service but located close to residential estates and our precious marine environment as they are, it should be run to best possible standards with minimal environmental impacts. The ESG has reached out to local environmental bodies on this and will also be contacting other authorities to seek further clarification.’