British Waterways announce new licences procedure for River Severn

British Waterways is taking action to reduce licence evasion on the River Severn.

From 10 April 2006 boats will not be able to pass through the locks on the River Severn (from Lincomb Lock to Gloucester Docks) without a valid craft licence. This action is part of British Waterways on-going commitment to reduce licence evasion rates.

Boaters are encouraged to purchase their licence before making a journey on the River Severn, however British Waterways will be selling six month boat licences at the locks to customers without a licence. To enable the lock keeper to process the application, boaters will need to provide their boat safety and insurance certificate. Payment at the locks will be by credit or debit card only.

Long and short term licences can be paid for by cash, card, cheque or direct debit if they are purchased through the local waterway office. Boaters can purchase all other types of licence, and pay for these by card, cash or cheque at the local waterway offices, agents and the Watford office prior to their journey. Also short term licences can be purchased from Sharpness Port on their arrival from the Severn Estuary.

British Waterways permits boats 56 days on the waterway per annum without a Boat Safety Certificate or Recreational Craft Directive Declaration of Conformity. Customers need to provide self declaration on the licence application form that the craft complies with all appropriate Boat Safety Certificate requirements.

Eliza Botham, service manager for British Waterways said, "This is a really positive step in continuing the progress we have already made in making sure all boats are licenced. It’s important that everyone who keeps a boat on our waterways pays their way to help continue to maintain them for the benefit of all."

Waterway users have been consulted about the new procedure through the Worcestershire User Forum and the sub group of the Gloucester & Sharpness User Forum. Information has been sent to customers and marinas during March and British Waterways staff have visited marina sites to speak to boaters about this policy.

Nationally over 26,000 boats are licenced to use British Waterways’ 2,000 mile network of canals and rivers. Last year British Waterways raised over £14 million from craft licences and moorings, which is reinvested into the upkeep of its waterways, including essential repairs and general maintenance work.

For more information please contact the British Waterways Gloucester Office on 01452 318000.