Three more boaters prosecuted for navigation offences
THREE more boaters have been prosecuted for navigation offences on the Broads.
The Broads Authority has released details of a further three prosecutions of boaters for navigation bylaw offences on the Norfolk and Suffolk broads.
Numerous counts
This follows three other prosecutions in March and April, with the authority stating a further three boaters have been prosecuted for numerous counts of failing to navigate with care and caution and of breaking the speed limit.
The authority claims it is committed to prosecuting those who put the Broads and its users at risk. Going above the boating speed limits increases boat wash and damages the river banks through erosion. Wash from speeding vessels can cause damage to moored vessels and capsize smaller craft, like kayaks and canoes.
At Norwich Magistrates Court on 17th March, the former owner of a blue speedboat ‘Stingray’ (now sold) was convicted of three offences relating to incidents at Reedham and Norwich on the Yare in May and July last year.
Total cost £2,068
The magistrates imposed a fine of £330 for each of the three offences (£990) a victim surcharge of £33 was applied, and full costs of £1,045 ordered (total costs of £2068). A 28-day collection order was made.
At Great Yarmouth Magistrates Court on 13th April, two boaters were convicted of several counts of failing to navigate with care and caution, and of breaking the speed limit. The offences took place on a white speedboat, at Irstead and Ludham on the Ant in September last year.
The magistrates imposed fines of £200 for combined offences, a contribution to costs of £200 and a £34 victim surcharge was applied (total costs of £434 each). 28-day collection orders were imposed.
Senior Ranger for Compliance & Safety, Jon Hopes, worked on preparing these cases for court, stating:
“We will continue to raise awareness of the importance of keeping to speed limits, and navigating with care and attention.
“We hope that these cases act as a deterrent to others and we encourage all river users to help keep the National Park a safe and special place for everyone to enjoy.”
Dependent on tolls
Unlike Canal & River Trust and the Environmental Agency, the Broads Authority is entirely dependent upon income from tolls to fund all maintenance, dredging and mooring improvements on the navigation. It is the only major navigation authority in the UK that does not regularly receive central funding for this role. In cases where boat owners are genuinely struggling to pay their tolls, the authority will listen and work with them.
The authority asks anyone who witnesses boats that are speeding or being driven carelessly to note details such as the boat name or registration, take photos or videos if they can, and report the incident to Broads Control on 01603 756056 or by email: