In a commendable effort to secure Port Dinorwic Marina for community ownership, local residents of Gwynedd united, raising an impressive six-figure sum of £127,000 within a mere six weeks. Their aspiration was to acquire the marina situated in Y Felinheli, envisioning it as a cornerstone for local prosperity and communal pride.
Port Dinorwic Marina, with its roots tracing back to the bustling activity of Dinorwig Quarry in the 1980s, fell into administration in June 2023, precipitating its sale. A local community initiative stepped forward in September with a bid, driven by the noble ambition of community stewardship.
However, hopes were dashed as news broke that their bid had been unsuccessful. A private consortium emerged victorious, securing the site for private ownership. Despite this setback, the community remains resolute, shifting its focus towards alternative avenues to foster local development.
A prominent figure in the campaign highlighted the resilience of the community spirit, stating, “Our intention from the outset was to create and promote local projects that would benefit the village, and that remains our intention.” Emphasising the importance of collective brainstorming, suggestions from fellow residents are invited to chart a new course of action.
The endeavour undertaken was unprecedented, marking the first attempt by a social enterprise in England and Wales to acquire such a valuable asset. The campaign garnered support from 386 individuals, in addition to grants and loans, including a notable £1 million loan from Cyngor Gwynedd.
Expressing profound disappointment at the outcome, another driving force behind the project remarked, “We’re terribly disappointed, of course. Community ownership of the marina would have been an incredible asset to the village.”
Despite the setback, another key figure in the campaign found solace in the broader impact of their efforts, remarking, “It’s encouraging that many other initiatives up and down the country are looking at what we did and asking how they can also be bolder,” underscoring the campaign’s ripple effect across Wales.
While the specific details of the bid remain undisclosed, the organisation had offered shares for sale, aiming to reach a £300,000 fund. Refunds will be extended to investors upon request, reflecting the commitment to transparency and integrity that defined the campaign.
As the community gathers to reflect on this chapter, the indomitable spirit of resilience and unity prevails. While the dream of acquiring Port Dinorwic Marina may have eluded them, the journey has illuminated new pathways for collective action and community empowerment. In the face of adversity, the people of Gwynedd stand undeterred, poised to embrace fresh opportunities and forge a future rich in shared prosperity and solidarity.
