Silencing the boaters

LOCAL residents near a moorings on the Kennet & Avon Canal were so fed up with noise from the boaters that they contacted the local council, with a unique solution being found.

Alton Parish Council councillors had discussion with both the residents and boaters, resulting in agreement being reached and a 'quiet zone' being established, Alan Tilbury reveals.

Signs installed

Signs have now been installed by Canal & River Trust along the stretch of mooring near Pewsey, stating that it is a 'quiet zone', so asking boaters to respect it, and not  run generators, boat engines or play loud music.

The moorings are between Honeystreet Bridge and West of the Barge Inn, where boaters were causing distress to local residents with their noise, often late into the night.  This has now ceased, as boaters arriving at the moorings take notice of the signs, and should they wish to run generators or boat engines, carry on to other moorings away from houses.

This is believed to be the first 'quiet zone' of its kind, and its success, it is believed, will prompt the scheme to be installed at other moorings that are near to houses.