Case ref: MLA/2014/00231/1
Licence ref: L/2015/00245/1

Case summary

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Project description

Removal of items from North Sea ship wrecks
I would like to tell you a little about myself and my diving and salvage work background. I have been diving as a hobby for over 30 years and find the underwater world both facinating for its marine life and also for diving and exploring wrecks. I have always been very aware of the importance of not disturbing natural habitats and only removing items from the sea bed which I own or have the rights to. I have also kept in touch with the MCA over the years and Alison Kentucky (Deputy Receiver of Wrecks) has been very helpful particularly regarding my personal interests in the Somali cargo.
During the 1980's I started buying various northeast wrecks so I would be within the law if I wanted to remove any artefacts found on them. In the early 1990's I got theopportunity to buy the Somali cargo. Ever since then I have saved and worked hard to purchase an ex 200ton Atlantic fishing trawler which I have converted to a dive support vessell complete with air spread, dive lift, winch and crane complete with grab and also an ROV.
Over the years I have removed small amounts of scrap from various wrecks I own but after being approached by two of your officers a few weeks ago I have only just found out a license is now required to remove or move anything on the seabed.

Other information

Applicant details

Mr   William Pocklington / 0191 2708220 / billpocklington@tiscali.co.uk
21 CRESSWELL AVENUE NORTH SHIELDS, TYNE & WEAR / NE29 9BQ
21-MAY-2014
06-FEB-2025
15-JUL-2015
14-FEB-2025
Completed