Residents near the Royal Motor Yacht Club (RMYC) in Sandbanks, Poole, have raised objections to proposed plans to expand the club’s marina, citing concerns over privacy, property damage, and environmental impact. The club, which counts Prince Philip among its notable past admirals, seeks to increase the number of yacht berths by extending its marina further into Poole Harbour.

The expansion comes in response to advice from Natural England, which has recommended removing 24 existing moorings in the harbour to protect eelgrass beds from damage caused by boat anchors. The RMYC plans to offset the loss of these moorings by creating additional berths within the enlarged marina.

However, several owners of upscale homes positioned alongside the club have expressed unease about the potential consequences of the development. These properties, valued between £2 million and £3 million, border the marina and feature private gardens and jetties directly adjacent to the water.

One resident, Frank Carr, outlined three primary concerns. First, he said the extension would bring larger boats closer to the homes, enabling boaters to intrude upon the owners’ privacy. Second, he noted fears about sand and sediment displacement caused by the piling work necessary for the expansion. This sediment shift could lead to accumulation beneath private jetties, necessitating costly dredging to maintain access. Finally, Carr expressed worries about possible structural damage to houses, including his own 1930s-era home, which is regarded by planners as an early example within the Sandbanks conservation area. He called for pre-construction structural surveys and ongoing monitoring of noise and vibrations during piling, with immediate work stoppages if damage occurs.

Additional objections include concerns about the visual impact the larger marina could have on the conservation area, with some neighbors believing it would detract from the character of the locale.

The local authority, BCP Council, is expected to reach a decision on the application in the coming weeks. Representatives of the RMYC have been contacted for comment but had not responded at the time of reporting.