Ards and North Down Borough Council will take over Bangor Marina and Harbour in Northern Ireland from 1 April 2026, replacing current operator boatfolk. Plans for a new agreement had been under discussion, but both sides were unable to agree on the final terms.
The council said it is working with boatfolk, marina staff and advisors to support the transition and keep services running as usual for berth holders and harbour users. It added that “ensuring continuity and maintaining high levels of service remain the top priorities” and does not expect any major changes to services or public access at this stage.
boatfolk has managed the marina since 2020, with its contract due to end on 31 March 2026. The company confirmed that it had been selected for a new contract in November 2025, with support from Premier Marinas, which acquired the company in 2025, but “agreement on the detailed commercial terms could not be reached”.
Staff at the marina and harbour are expected to be moved to the council under the transfer of undertakings protection of employment regulations. The council said it will support employees during the transition and will review how the marina will be managed over time.
