Calls for boat ‘wrecks’ to be moved on from staithe

Calls have been made for abandoned boats to be moved on from Stalham Staithe.

Concerned resident Alan Marshall said that some of the boats on the staithe had been there for many months, and some since last year.

He added: 'One, in particular, is almost a wreck. They are a visible deterrent to visiting craft and take up valuable mooring space.

'This impacts upon local tourism generally and, in particular, a restaurant nearby and the Broads Museum.

'It is worth recording that this is not the only wreck being ignored. A houseboat and an adjacent barge are half sunk on the cut through between Stalham and Sutton dykes, but these are only visible by boat.

'Dealing with this type of problem is not insurmountable. The Canal and River Trust faced similar problems across its network but started an enforcement programme which dealt very successfully with the issue.'

Stalham Town Council put up 24-hour mooring signs at the site, and a spokesman said: 'The council is aware of the situation and seeking legal advice as to the ownership of the land.'

A Broads Authority spokesperson said: 'We are providing support to Stalham Town Council regarding the ongoing issues raised such as the enforcement of mooring restrictions using bylaws.

'We have assisted with the moving on of boats from this location in the past, only for them to return. We are working with the council on a longer-term strategy to manage the staithe.'