Plans to replace Aldeburgh lifeboat branded 'disgraceful' by local MP
The all-weather lifeboat at Aldeburgh is set to be replaced with a less capable inshore vessel
Last updated 13th Jul 2023
A local MP has called proposed changes to one of Suffolk's lifeboat services 'disgraceful' and says it could put lives at risk.
The RNLI has confirmed the Mersey Class all-weather boat based at Aldeburgh is to be retired and replaced with a less capable inshore lifeboat in the coming months.
The charity insists the boat has to be replaced, as its reached the end of its working life.
However Suffolk Coastal MP Therese Coffey has reacted angrily to the decsion and claims it could be 'disastrous' for the town.
In a statement on her website, Therese said: “I think this is a disgraceful outcome. I’m really disappointed with the lack of interaction with the local community and how the RNLI has treated its many volunteers who are out there saving lives or are ready to do so."
"The interaction I’ve had with them has also been less than desirable. I will continue to take this up both with the RNLI leadership and the Charity Commission though to try and ensure it’s not the final chapter for the RNLI and Aldeburgh.
“Whilst the proposed downgrade is disastrous, the way the RNLI leadership has approached this makes me really worried for the longer term too.
"The people of Aldeburgh are generous, they’ve raised money consistently. Indeed a £2m legacy was given to be focussed here but having been treated the way that they have makes me worried that they won’t be so generous in the future.
"Especially if there is no clear evidence that money given for Aldeburgh is actually being spent here.”
“Today though I just feel sorry for the crew members, local donors and the rest of the Aldeburgh community.”
One of the lifeboats further up the coast at Happisburgh is also set to be removed.
Amber French, the charity’s Area Lifesaving Manager, said: "So the RNLI undertook a joint lifesaving effect review with our volunteers, staff and wider lifeboat station community in both areas.
"We are very grateful for their insight and cooperation, which helped us reach the decisions on the correct lifeboat configuration for this stretch of water.
"As sea use around the coast changes, we must ensure that we have the most appropriate lifeboats in place which will save the greatest number of lives in the most effective way.
"The RNLI is funded by the generosity of the public and has been for almost 200 years. We have a responsibility to provide the right lifesaving service for residents, visitors and those who use the water, while ensuring donations to our charity are spent as wisely and appropriately as possible."
Chris Halder, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Aldeburgh, said: "The crew are disappointed and sad to see the end of the all-weather lifeboat era at Aldeburgh."
"We’ve got a really committed and enthusiastic crew who we want to continue saving lives at sea and we need visitors and supporters of Aldeburgh to maintain their backing of the station to help us make the decision, which RNLI trustees approved, work."