Mariners are requested not to use their vessels in Cardiff Bay and on the Rivers Taff and Ely.

CARDIFF BARRAGE Locks, Channel View Slipway and Inner Harbour Pay and Display Pontoons will close tonight following the announcement of a national lockdown.

RNLI Penarth posted the following message on Facebook:

"We have been advised of the following by Cardiff Harbour Authority.

"Mariners are advised that as of 0001hrs Sunday 20th December 2020 until further notice Cardiff Harbour Authority Barrage locks will be closed to traffic except for emergencies.

"The restrictions are in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19, save lives and reduce pressure on the Welsh NHS and emergency services following a sustained rise in coronavirus cases.

"Cardiff Harbour Authority, in line with Welsh Government guidance and Tier 4 restrictions, do not deem the use of a vessel for recreational purposes as essential travel, nor the journey to a vessel for use in recreational activity as a reasonable excuse for travel.

"Cardiff Harbour Authority requests that all mariners refrain from using their vessels in Cardiff Bay and on the Rivers Taff and Ely.

"Use of the Cardiff Harbour Authority pontoon systems or public slipway is not permitted until the end of the Tier 4 restrictions and access to or use of the water by small craft / paddle craft is prohibited during this period due to the closure of the authorised access points (CIWW and Channel View Slipway).

"As the virus continues to affect us all, the purpose of these restrictions is to create a concerted national effort to do everything we can to stop the spread of coronavirus.

"Every individual contribution to that counts and as such we ask you not to think about whether it is permitted but whether it is truly necessary and sensible. We thank you in advance for your understanding and co-operation."