Owners of unregistered boats will have a nasty surprise waiting for them if they have moored in Surrey

Officers from the Environment Agency (EA) conducted a joint enforcement operation along two stretches of the River Thames around Cigarette Island and Hurst Park in Molesey on the morning of September 24. The enforcement operation was led by the EA, and Elmbridge Borough Council (EBC) with support from Surrey Police.

Trespass notices have been served, warnings issued to remove possessions, and sunken vessels have been surveyed for future removal. Fly-tipping enforcement notices have also been served and registrations have been checked, according to EBC. Further action is planned to follow up in the coming weeks.

Councillor Mike Rollings, EBC leader, said: “This morning, we were able to deliver the type of enforcement action needed to ensure our rivers are used safely and legally.” He thanked the EA, Surrey Police, the RSPCA and Surrey County Council for their support.

Advice and guidance on boat registration, oil and waste disposal and homelessness were also provided to the boat dwellers on their vessels this morning.

Cllr Kevin Whincup (Molesey East/ Liberal Democrats) the enforcement action was the result of a “long fight” and “months of emails back and forth” in a post on social media. Cllr Whincup added: “I, like many, are glad that the promised action has begun.”

The two large white boats have reportedly been removed, with one going to Sunbury to have its hull emptied of water and dried out before it joins the other boat to be scrapped.

“For many years Elmbridge residents living on or near the river in Molesey have been disturbed by the unauthorised moorings along this stretch of the River Thames,” Cllr Rollings said. “They have campaigned to Elmbridge Borough Council, the Environment Agency, Surrey Police, and national government for increased action to remedy the situation of unauthorised moorings.”

To ensure fair access for all, mooring on the River Thames is only permitted for boats travelling along the river for pleasure, for periods of no longer than 24 hours. Boats that abuse docking time limits can be liable for a possession court order from the landowner.

Boat owners can stay on privately-owned land for a longer period than 24 hours if they have the landowner’s consent to do so. EBC cannot evict boats illegally mooring on private land- that remains the responsibility of the land-owner.

Press release: https://www.elmbridge.gov.uk/news/2024/river-enforcement-operation