Pump-out charges justified

BOATERS have been complaining of the increase in British Waterways Marinas Ltd (BWML) pump-out charges, but it states these are justified.

The pump out charge is increasing from £12.50 to £15 as of 1st April 2013, with  Sawley Marina Manager, Susan Cooper, telling us:

Commercial judgement

"The charge of £12.50 I believe was set in January 2010, three years ago. The price increase is a commercial judgement based on investment, the market, chemical waste removal costs, running costs and RPI increases.

"Since January 2010 to date RPI is running at 17.3% increase, chemical waste disposal and utility fees have grown substantially above this figure. In addition, during the above period the Government increased VAT from 17.5% to 20%."

Every third year

Generally BWML only increase pump-out charges every third year, so it is expected this charge will stand until 2016, though of course outside pressure could affect this.

It is thought the charges are fair and reasonable, and by 2016 could have increased below RPI.