Alice Elgie reports…
STEPPING into Campbell Wharf Marina in the heart of the city of Milton Keynes, it’s easy to see why it recently received a Five Gold Anchor Accreditation from the Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA).
The idyllic setting offers moorers not only all the modern conveniences they could wish for, but also a front row seat on nature with abundant established trees and wildlife. Manager Mellissa Williams is rightly proud of their recent achievement, having only taken over in 2024. She said: “I was quite nervous at the prospect of undergoing such a rigorous review but also excited. We already held an admirable four gold anchors, but I was determined that, if it was at all possible, we would achieve the pinnacle of five.”
Whether it be through joining together for regular events, or doggie residents stopping at the marina office door for a sneaky treat, it seems moorers are keen to look out for one another and Mellissa and assistant manager, Mike Garforth, are behind it all. In fact, by way of celebrating their newly gained award, they decided to throw a party so that everyone could share in the success and there was no shortage of volunteers when help was needed to prepare: “As soon as I put the word out that more hands were needed to erect a gazebo in case of inclement weather, several moorers immediately stepped up!” Mellissa told me.
This community spirit ensured the day was a success with much chat and laughter as well as bubbly and a buffet for everyone, including representatives from The Parks Trust property team who own the marina, CEO of Land & Water, a director of Geomac (part of L&W) who manage the marina, and several senior management.
Mellissa was thrilled with how it went: “The day was everything we could have hoped for and was not just a celebration for what we have achieved but also of the marina itself and the wonderful community that makes it such a special place to be.”
From Campbell Wharf Marina it is just a five-minute stroll to Campbell Park, “the largest 20th/21st century formal urban park in the UK, totalling about 100 acres.” This beautiful greenspace boasts a collection of trees from around the world along with wildflower meadows and even sheep grazing each year between January and March, making it difficult to believe you’re also close to a city centre complete with a wide range of shopping and leisure facilities!
For more than 25 years The Gold Anchor award scheme has been auditing marinas throughout the world and Mellissa, and her hardworking team at Campbell Wharf, are certainly worthy recipients who will be flying their flag for all: “While it was important to me to achieve the highest accreditation, ultimately the whole process helped me examine the service that we provide to ensure the marina is an excellent facility, where customers love to be and feel valued and respected.”
