Environment Agency carries out its threat

THE THREAT BY the Environment Agency to take action against unregistered boats on the Thames has been carried out.

As part of an operation against unauthorised moorings 17 boats have been served notices, Janet Friend reports.

Six remain

Only six now remain and the owners of the remaining boats will be issued with fines should they stay.

These were moored at Cigarette Island opposite Hampton Court Palace, with two fixed penalty notices also issued.  

Six sunken or partially submerged vessels will be salvaged over the next fortnight.

Elmbridge Borough Council tells it was working with the Environment Agency to find a long-term solution, and it was was determined to maintain safe, clean, and accessible riverbanks for everyone in the community.

Restricting moorings

A public space protection order came into force on 17th June, restricting mooring to 24 hours with no return within 72 hours at five locations in Elmbridge.

The operation to enforce this order was involving Surrey County Council and Surrey Police. It is told that "disruption caused by unauthorised moorings has gone on for too long".