Illegal moorings are targeted in operation

A CRACKDOWN on disruption caused by unauthorised moorings on the River Thames, which councillors have described as having “gone on for too long”, has taken place with the joint effort of Elmbridge Borough Council, the Environment Agency, Surrey County Council and Surrey Police.

- By JOSEPH BICKLE

On Wednesday, June 25, these organisations carried out a coordinated enforcement operation at Cigarette Island along the River Thames, and near Hampton Court.

This came as part of enforcement of the recently implemented Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) across areas in the Elmbridge borough.

Cllr Simon Waugh, deputy leader of Elmbridge Borough Council, said: “The disruption caused by unauthorised moorings has gone on for too long. With the PSPO now in place, we are stepping up enforcement to address overstaying boats and associated antisocial behaviour.”

“Today's operation and ongoing actions demonstrates our commitment to protecting our riverside and residents. We thank the Environment Agency, Surrey County Council and Surrey Police for their continued support.”