Haggling over Olympics revenue

OVER six months ago British Waterways' Board were told that 1,500 boats may visit London during the Olympic Games period, writes Allan Richards.

Whilst this was seen as resulting in a strong source of income from mooring fees, the Board were warned that the cost of managing the operation (boat journeys to the Games and mooring during the Games) would be significant, and would be unlikely to raise significant net income.

Inland Waterways Association

The proposed solution was to enter into an agreement with Inland Waterways Association to manage boats in transit and 'temporary'
moorings during the Games with bookings managed by British Waterways via the Waterscape site.

However, six months later, it would appear that Inland Waterways Association will not provide the services of its festivals team unless British Waterways meets its demand for payment linked to bookings.

Sceptical

In April, British Waterways made the claim that any surplus from Olympics moorings would be 're-invested in the historic waterway network'. With its recent penchant for investing in marinas and pubs to the tune of £13m rather than the waterways, the public has reason to be sceptical regarding any claim about such investment.

However, it now seems the small 'net income' envisaged may become a large loss due to Inland Waterways Association treating Olympics moorings as a commercial venture.