For months, local fishermen with smaller vessels in Hirtshals have been voicing concerns about safety at the auction basin. They claim the harbour authorities have ignored repeated warnings about poor access conditions along the quay wall.
“Dangerous to move around”
Fisherman Mikael Borup says truck drivers, fishermen, and other users have contacted the harbour management many times — but nothing has changed.
According to Borup, the quay edge has now become so unsafe that people risk accidents just by moving around the site.
“The conditions are simply dangerous,” he told local Hirtshals news portal NordsøPosten, warning that it is only a matter of time before someone gets hurt.
Harbour acknowledges concerns
In response, Hirtshals Harbour says they are aware of the criticism and are now in dialogue with the fishermen.
“We continuously assess safety at the harbour and must prioritise to maintain safe and efficient operations for everyone,” says Sofie S. Kristensen, Head of Communications at Hirtshals Harbour.
She adds that the harbour plans a thorough inspection of the quay wall and will evaluate further action after that.
Call for open dialogue.
Kristensen stresses that safety remains a top priority and encourages all users to reach out with concerns.
Fisherman Mikael Borup confirms he has recently been contacted by harbour representative Peter Ydesen. However, he stresses that real action is still needed before trust is restored.