Coastguard review may be challenged

PLANS to reform the coastguard service and close eight coastguard stations around the country may yet be challenged in the courts.

Campaigners in Wales are already seeking legal advice about a judicial review, and it is understood supporters of the stations in Thames and Liverpool are considering similar steps.

Shetland coastguard were also considering taking further action if the government approved MCA plans to close the Lerwick co-ordinating station, but on Tuesday shipping minister Mike Penning confirmed that the station will remain open 24 hours a day.

The government has given the MCA clearance to close the stations at Forth, Clyde, Great Yarmouth, Liverpool, Thames, Swansea, Brixham and Portland by March 2015.

If the High Court decides the process by which that decision was taken was illegal or not procedurally correct, the government and the MCA could be forced to start the whole review again from scratch.

Shetland News — free to read

Membership helps pay for journalism

If you value impartial local journalism, become a member of Shetland News and get:

• Only local ads.
• Members' weekly newsletter.
• Bookmark stories and join the comments.

Already a member? Sign in to hide this message.

One-time

Monthly

Quarterly

Yearly

£50

£75

£100

£125

Amount More Options £150£200£250£300£350

£3

£5

£7

£10

Amount More Options £15£20£25£30£35

£10

£15

£20

£25

Amount More Options £30£35£40£45£50

£60

£80

£100

£120

Amount More Options £140£160£180£200£220

Continue

Remind me later

Billing: Your monthly subscription of £10 will be billed on or shortly after the 17th of each month. You can change how much you pay or cancel at any time.