THE PORT authority says it will continue to clear Southampton's 'boat graveyard' despite the presence of squatters. 

Associated British Ports (ABP) has confirmed it has continued its removal project despite illegal occupants living on the self-named "pirate island". 

The scheme began in May and aims to create a place "local people take pleasure in seeing".

Last month, several abandoned boats off Northam Bridge were daubed with graffiti declaring the vessels as their home. 

ABP bosses told the Daily Echo squatters had been "abusive" towards staff cleaning the boats.

However, ABP has now confirmed that the abandoned boat removal project will go ahead despite squatters' disruptions.

READ MORE: Squatters on 'pirate island' boats in River Itchen, Southampton block work to clear eyesore wrecks 

A spokesperson said: “We can confirm that the second phase of the wrecked and abandoned vessels clearance project on River Itchen has started.

"Currently, nine wrecks from the area South of the Northam Bridge have been removed and we are expecting to clear a total of 16 vessels by October 31.

"This project is critical to ensuring a cleaner, safer environment for the local community."

ABP cleared 22 vessels in the summer before squatters vandalised the boats.

Graffiti written on the vessels has now been covered by the port authority due to complaints by residents over the profanities used. 

Other messages on the boats read: "this is my home", "this is pirate island," and "I claim adverse possession".

Squatters living aboard spoke out claiming that homeless people are sheltering in the boats.

However, ABP is continuing to work with police during the removals.

A Hampshire police spokesman confirmed officers are working with ABP.

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