BALLYWALTER QUAY

• GBLYW
• Latitude: 54.5433
• Longitude: -5.48056
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: UK

Ballywalter Quay, located in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, is a small but historically significant marine port. Here's a detailed description and specification:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 54.5333° N latitude, -5.4833° W longitude
• Region: County Down, Northern Ireland
• Proximity: Situated along the east coast of the Ards Peninsula, Ballywalter Quay is about 25 miles southwest of Belfast.

Physical Characteristics:

• Structure: Traditional stone quay, with upgrades and maintenance to support local marine activities.
• Length: Roughly 100 meters long, designed to accommodate small vessels and fishing boats.
• Depth: The quay area has a variable draft depending on tide levels. Typically suited for vessels with a draft of up to 3 meters.
• Tide Range: Tidal range in the area can influence the depth of water at the quay, with a potential difference of about 2 to 3 meters between high and low tide.

Facilities:

• Berths: Limited number of berths due to the quay's small size, primarily for local fishing boats and small craft.
• Loading/Unloading: Basic facilities for loading and unloading fish, equipment, and small cargo.
• Navigation Aids: Basic navigational aids are in place, primarily suited for daytime use and local fishermen familiar with the waters.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance for safety and operational efficiency, though it is a small and less complex facility compared to larger commercial ports.

Services:

• Fisheries: Mainly supports the local fishing industry, with seasonal variation in activity.
• Boat Repair: Some local facilities for minor repairs and maintenance of small vessels.
• Tourism: In addition to fishing, the quay supports a modest level of recreational boating and serves as an attraction for tourists exploring the scenic coastline.

Access:

• Road Access: Accessible via local roads connecting to the broader regional road network. Nearby towns provide necessary amenities and support services.
• Public Transport: Limited public transport availability directly to Ballywalter, with the nearest major transport hubs in Belfast and Newtownards.

Environmental Considerations:

• Climate: Typical of Northern Ireland's coastal areas, with a temperate maritime climate that influences marine and fishing activities.
• Ecology: The local marine environment is managed to preserve wildlife and natural resources, with regulations in place to minimize ecological impact by quay activities.

Nearby Amenities:

• Accommodation: Local bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and self-catering options are available for visitors.
• Dining: Small cafes and pubs in Ballywalter village offer dining options showcasing local produce and fish.

Importance:

• Community Role: Key focal point for Ballywalter's local economy, especially supporting the fishing community and enhancing tourism.
• Cultural Significance: Part of the heritage of Ballywalter, with historical ties to generations of fishing and sea-related activities in the region.

Planning and Development:

• Future development considerations include enhancing support facilities for increased tourism and possibly expanding berthing capacity when feasible and sustainable.

Ballywalter Quay is a quintessential small fishing port, deeply rooted in local tradition and catering primarily to the needs of local fishermen while also providing a charming spot for visitors.