Falmouth Harbour Commissioners are applying for powers which will enable them to introduce new rules, and are inviting comments from local harbour users.

If granted, the application for Powers of General Direction will allow FHC to make directions for ships navigating within the harbour. The Marine Navigation Act of 2013 gives harbour authorities the right to apply for these powers. Applicants have to make a declaration that they agree to abide by a code of conduct that ensures that any objections to directions receive proper consideration.

Feedback from the consultation period, which is required to last for at least 28 days, will be collated by FHC’s consultative committee chairman, Ian Munday, who will produce a summary of responses. This will be sent to the Secretary of State for Transport for consideration as part of the application.

Captain Mark Sansom, harbour master and FHC chief executive, said: “FHC currently has powers to make bye-laws and to issue special directions to ships using the harbour, but the General Direction will allow us to operate a more flexible approach to harbour management.

“The primary use of these powers is envisaged to be the compulsory zoning of particular activities and temporary directions to assist with the management of events, such as Tall Ships.

“The powers could also allow us to introduce speed limits in areas if there was a safety case to do so.”

Mr Munday, added: “The consultative committee can see the benefit of FHC having more flexible powers to manage and improve safety in the harbour. We would encourage harbour users to look carefully at the proposal and take part in the consultation.” The consultation will close on October 17.

Anyone requiring more information about FHC’s application for Powers of General Direction should visit www.falmouthport.co.uk.