Port Isaac lifeboat station set for a major makeover

Down by the water in Port Isaac, the lifeboat station is the white building where crew in yellow wellies bring the inshore lifeboat out to sea. From Monday 26 October it becomes a building site, as a refurbishment years in the planning finally gets going.

Major works at the Port Isaac RNLI lifeboat station and shop are being delivered by Ryearch Ltd. The RNLI describes the start as a significant milestone in a community-driven project to secure the future of lifesaving in the village for generations to come.

📷Credit: RNLI-Nathan Williams

What the work involves

The works will modernise and improve both the lifeboat station and the shop, keeping the facility fit for the needs of today’s volunteer crews and supporters.

The investment is meant to safeguard the station’s future. It will give volunteers better facilities and a modern base from which lifeboat crews can keep launching to people in danger at sea along the North Cornwall coast.

Victoria Watton, RNLI Project Manager, said: “Reaching this stage is a huge milestone for everyone involved in the project.

“Over the past few years, we’ve worked closely with local stakeholders and the Port Isaac community to develop plans that will protect the future of the station while respecting its important place within the village.”

📷D class D-5. Credit: RNLI/Kyle Reed

The crew will keep launching

Rescues do not stop while the builders are in. Throughout the refurbishment, Port Isaac RNLI’s volunteer crew will run the lifesaving service from temporary facilities, with operational readiness maintained at all times.

Some temporary disruption is unavoidable during construction, the RNLI says, but measures have been put in place to keep the impact on residents, visitors and neighbouring businesses to a minimum.

Kevin Dingle, Volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager at Port Isaac RNLI, said: “This is a really proud moment for everyone connected with the station. This project sees a community coming together to support its lifeboat station and the volunteers who give their time to help others.

“We know there will be some disruption while work takes place and we’re incredibly grateful to our neighbours, local businesses and residents for their understanding. The support we’ve received has been fantastic.”

📷The shop at Port Isaac. Credit: RNLI-Nathan Williams

A village effort

The project follows engagement with residents, stakeholders and supporters. It has been made possible by the Port Isaac community, including local businesses, fundraising volunteers and campaign supporters, who have rallied behind the appeal.

Among them is acclaimed local chef Nathan Outlaw and his team, who have given significant support.

“Thanks to the generosity of so many people, we’re now able to invest in a station that will support future generations of crew members and help us continue providing a lifesaving service to local people and visitors alike,” Kevin said.

Victoria added: “We’re grateful for the patience, support and enthusiasm shown throughout that process. The refurbishment represents an important investment in local lifesaving infrastructure and will help ensure our volunteers have the facilities they need to continue saving lives for many years to come.”

📷The D-class launches from Port Isaac Lifeboat Station. Credit: RNLI-Nathan Williams