Sandbanks neighbours oppose yacht club berths over privacy and building concerns

Residents of Sandbanks, Dorset, are objecting to plans to expand the Royal Motor Yacht Club’s marina, saying larger boats could look into their waterfront homes. The dispute matters because the proposal is intended to accommodate boats after concerns about damage to protected seabed habitat led to a recommendation to remove existing moorings.

Neighbours also fear piling work could cause structural damage to older homes, and changes to seabed sediment could leave private jetties blocked with sand. One resident has asked for a structural survey, noise and vibration limits, monitoring during construction and work to stop if damage occurs. The club has applied to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council for permission to create additional berths.