Start of Napoli grounding inquiry (From Thisisdorset)

Start of Napoli grounding inquiry

10:16am Wednesday 5th March 2008 in

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AN INQUIRY into the grounding of the MSC Napoli off the world heritage coast was launched yesterday at Branscombe, near where the storm-damaged ship was grounded on its way to Portland Port.

The inquiry comes before work begins in April to remove the final section of the vessel, the stern, from the sea off Sidmouth.

The grounding of the 62,000-tonne Napoli in January last year sparked chaotic scenes when people flocked to beaches in east Devon and Dorset to salvage goods.

Volunteers also stepped up to clear the beaches of debris and pollution.

The Devon County Council-led inquiry will consist of an initial evidence-gathering phase.

At a later stage the county council will appoint an independent chairman and a committee to examine the evidence.

The inquiry will consider issues including to what degree the environmental sensitivity of the coastline should be a factor in determining places of refuge for shipping in emergencies.

It will also look at whether the UK coastline, marine and estuarine environment is adequately protected by legislation.