Moor bad news for unscrupulous boaters (From Your Local Guardian)

Moor bad news for unscrupulous boaters

7:00am Saturday 4th February 2012 in Richmond By Paul Teed

Choppy waters: Boats moored along the Thames

Boaters who moor on council land without permission could soon face prosecution, after the authority began formal proceedings to make it illegal.

Some unscrupulous or unknowing boat owners have set up permanent unauthorised moorings and refused to leave, causing escalating tensions with riverside communities along the Thames.

Residents have complained to police and Richmond Council for years about antisocial behaviour, littering, blocking towpaths, noise, intimidating dogs and sewage problems.

However, the authorities have been powerless to force the offenders to leave.

Councillor Virginia Morris, cabinet member for environment at Richmond Council, said: “The problem has persisted over several years, but it has increased recently and there are now about 15 to 25 boats usually moored on one small stretch of riverbank at any one time.

“Most of the boats effectively use the riverbanks as permanent or semi-permanent moorings without paying anything to do so which is unfair on others who pay council tax. They can also spoil views and impact upon the ambiance of the area.

“Officers have asked them to move on many times but they have refused to leave.”

The council has launched a consultation on a new byelaw which, if the Secretary of State approves it, would see boaters who moored illegally before the courts.

Fishermen claimed dozens of vessels had moored regularly without authorisation between Teddington and Staines, depriving anglers of their enjoyment of the Thames.

Councillor Suzette Nicholson, who has campaigned on behalf of Hampton residents affected by the problem, said: “This byelaw is the first positive outcome of many years of residents’ concern."

The new law would make it illegal for boaters to moor for more than 24 hours in any two day period.

To take part in the consultation, write to David Allister, Richmond Council, York Street, Twickenham TW1 3BZ, or email parks@richmond.gov.uk before April 6.