By Julie Waters
ARDS and North Down Council is to step in and run Bangor’s award winning marina after a breakdown in negotiations with the current operators.
The operational transfer follows a procurement process during which the local authority and the operators Boatfolk were unable to reach an agreement on the final terms for a new management contract.
In a statement, the council has said it is working closely with Boatfolk and Bangor Marina staff to ensure a smooth transition for staff, berth holders and all marina and harbour users from April 1st.
Situated at the heart of Bangor city centre, the marina and harbour is one of the largest five gold anchor accredited marina developments on the island of Ireland.
The marina boasts over 500 berths and can accommodate vessels up to 20 metres in length; the operation of the marina and harbour has been outsourced to a private operator since 2008.
Boatfolk took over the operation of the marina in 2020 and in 2025, Premier Marinas confirmed it had acquired boatfolk’s 11 marinas.
The council has pledged its commitment to a ‘stable transition’ saying it is not anticipating any significant changes to services or wider public access to the marina or harbour facilities.
“The council is working closely with current operator, Boatfolk, the Bangor staff team, and advisors to ensure a smooth transition for staff, berth holders, and all marina and harbour users,” said the statement.
“This follows a procurement process during which the council and Boatfolk were unable to reach agreement on the final terms for a new management contract.”
The statement continued: “Council officers are in direct communication with Bangor Marina staff and will be engaging with berth holders and customers in the coming days. Ensuring continuity and maintaining high levels of service remain the top priorities.
“Boatfolk has written to current Bangor berth holders to request permission to transfer data across to the council. We encourage berth holders to action this as soon as possible to ensure a smooth transition for April 1st.”
“The council wishes to acknowledge the long and successful relationship it has had with Boatfolk and the dedication of the team at Bangor, some of whom have served the marina and harbour and its customers for over 30 years.
“We confirm our support for marina and harbour staff as they transfer under TUPE arrangements. The Council is committed to a stable transition and will take time to review the long-term operating model to ensure the continued success of Bangor’s waterfront.”
