branded a potential hazard after sinking.

Anxious marine chiefs believe the Corona could endanger other ships. They also fear it could rupture the North Shore incinerator's underwater cooling pipes.

And this week environmentalist and Independent MP Mr. Stuart Hayward voiced concern over possible pollution, and dangers for swimmers.

Now Pembroke contractors Gringley Construction will be asked to raise the vessel.

The problem of the Corona was discussed at Tuesday afternoon's meeting of the Ports Authority. The vessel -- used for laying pipes off Tynes Bay -- sunk about three weeks ago.

It is believed old age and repeated storm batterings finally took their toll.

In February the boat narrowly averted disaster after a water spout came within 100 feet during freak storms. During the drama, the three-man crew was pounded by high seas and ferocious winds. And the vessel's wheelhouse was lost during one particular buffeting.

When contacted, Gringley Construction referred The Royal Gazette to Mr. Tage Hanegaard, Tynes Bay site manager. Mr. Hanegaard, from Danish company Pihl & Son, said the Corona was thought to have gone down after being hit by 35 knot winds.

It happened overnight, and there was nobody on board, said Mr. Hanegaard.

"There weren't any toxic substances, just some equipment,'' he added. Mr.

Hanegaard said another boat was being hired to continue the pipe-laying.

Mr. Ron Ross, director of Marine and Ports, said some fuel drums had been recovered after the sinking. He said the department's main worry was that the boat was a "navigational'' hazard.

There were also fears about the vessel brushing against cooling pipes on the sea bed. The pipes are to pump water into the incinerator, and cool it, when it becomes operational.

Mr. Hayward said: "I have several concerns. One is the possibility that fuel oil and lubricating oil went down with the boat.

"It also seems that the boat has just been left where it is, and no one is taking responsibility for it.''