5th August 2020. The National Coastwatch Institution station on the Great Orme in North Wales is relocating to a new site.
Following an intensive search for suitable locations NCI Great Orme opened in 2019 with a transportable unit on the northern tip of the Great Orme. This was not the preferred site, as it was a set-back cliff-top location with limited inshore visibility, but the optimum locations were within protected areas preventing our use. The newly formed station quickly established a pro-active management team and developed very positive relationships in the local community. However, due to their location, they were not able to assist with any incidents.
Discussions with the Harbour Masters, RNLI and HM Coastguard suggested that it would be beneficial if the station relocated to a site on the West Shore in Llandudno. This would not only give the station a better view over a wider area, but would also help to build upon the established local relationships and increase watchkeeper numbers. The Board of Trustees agreed and, with help of the local Council, the station is currently making the arrangements to move their transportable unit to a new, secure location. It is hoped that this move will provide opportunities for a more permanent and larger station in the Llandudno or surrounding area.