IWA LAUNCHES VISION FOR LONDON

The Inland Waterways Association has launched its Vision for London, an in-depth look at the issues faced by users of the capital’s rivers and canals.

Too few moorings

The primary issues for boaters in London are the shortage of moorings and lack of facilities. In the report, IWA outlines how it will work with both navigation authorities and local councils to encourage local planners to consider the needs of boat users.

To increase the number of moorings, a new type of community mooring is proposed to be owned and run by the boaters, ideally in disused basins or derelict sites and contain no more than ten boats.

IWA feels there is a widespread belief that no moorings will be available in London. To encourage confidence it suggests that the Canal & River Trust increases the number of pre-bookable visitor moorings.

Density is a big issue in the capital and boats are often double, or even triple moored, which has an impact on air quality, fire safety and visitor experience. IWA is asking for regular breaks in the line of boats as well as limiting moorings to two abreast.

Facilities required

In terms of amenities, instead of the current national policy of facilities being provided every five hours of cruising, IWA is suggesting that within central London, they are provided every two hours, possibly funded by the introduction of a charging zone.

Other topics discussed in the report, which will become IWA’s London region manifesto for the next few years, include water quality, fire safety, towpath conflicts, unpowered boats, invasive species, freight and heritage.