6 IMPRO VED FISHER Y HARBO UR A CCOMMODA TION 



with gradual soundings to the shore. A reef or ledge of 

 rocks known as Filey Brigg, or Bridge, forms the north horn 

 of the bay, extending from the coast and sheltering the 

 anchorage, which is often used by coasting vessels as a 

 stopping place during an adverse wind and tide. 



It does not appear that any indentation of the coast exists 

 more northward sufficiently deep to warrant the construction 

 of a work of this kind ; it is therefore pretty certain that what- 

 ever is done will be done here, as sundry inspections have been 

 made and reports sent in by Government order. It is one 

 of those situations which is certain to combine both a refuge 

 harbour for shipping and a fishing port in one, and seeing 

 that this is the case, it should be constructed at the national 

 expense without the condition of local assistance for the 

 breakwaters ; but as to special accommodation for fishing 

 boats over and above such breakwaters, assistance from 

 Government by loan in aid of local efforts should be afforded 

 at a low rate of interest, which could be raised by moderate 

 dues on boats discharging fish. 



The largest class of boats might pay 3 per annum if 

 belonging to the port, but strangers merely taking shelter 

 should be free. 



A company was proposed some years since to build a 

 harbour here as a commercial undertaking, but the writer is 

 not aware that any work has been commenced. 



It is very certain Filey and its vicinity would have its 

 present conditions changed, for the land in the vicinity 

 would much increase in value, from a demand for building 

 sites, and to the great advantage of the landholders, who 

 might very well contribute to the fishing accommodation 

 which a refuge harbour per se, over and above shelter, does 

 not provide. 



It is absolutely certain that a very large portion of 



