BroadsAuthority

If anyone has managed to catch the vessel registration marks or name please contact Broads Control on 01603 756056 or Broads.Control@broads-authority.gov.uk and make a report. It would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks, Tom

Morning Ian, Apologies for the delay in response, here is a summation of the hours included in the original application (which is the application objected to), provided by our Asset Officer. License application to: Open café at 06:00am for breakfasts and offer suitable liquor sales all day Live music and alcohol sales from 06:00am – 02:00am on Monday to Thursday, from 06:00am - 03:00am on Friday and Saturday, and from 06:00am - 12:00am on Sundays Outside music to go into marquee from midnight on all days On all bank holidays – licence extend to 04:00am for music and alcohol. On New Years eve to New Years day, a 48hr continuous licence. Supply of alcohol for consumption on or off the premises. I have been informed that the consideration relating to noise pollution resulted from the late night nature of the application for live music, the fact that Berney is a low background noise area in itself, and finally that the flat marshland surroundings mean there is a likelihood that noise would travel great distances. Best. Edit: To clarify, the licensing hours were changed multiple times by the applicants during the hearing meeting. The above hours were ones formally objected to by the Authority. The updated hours were discussed by the hearing panel, a full video of which can be found on this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYHn1boH34A

Evening all, As the EDP have decided to omit a large and critical section of our response to their questions from their final article, we are reproducing it below for your information. It is worth noting that our objection to the application was solely on the grounds of noise disturbance. The hearing by BDC’s licensing panel highlighted that they were not convinced that the applicants had made enough considerations to both noise concerns and health and safety. The decision summary can be found here: https://youtu.be/MLwOgjYH8YM and the full hearing is also available on BDC’s Youtube channel. The Authority was approached by Broadland District Council to comment regarding a license application for a bistro in the former shop building next to the Berney Arms pub. The Authority objected to the initial license application on grounds relating to noise disturbance - the application requested a license to serve alcohol and play music until the very early hours of the morning. The Authority therefore regarded the nature of the application to be inappropriate considering the location of the premises. We fully appreciate the importance of the hospitality industry to the Broads, both for local residents and visitors to the area. When approached for comment on licensing applications we review each case on an individual basis and will support those that we deem to be acceptable and well-considered. The remainder of the response to the journalist’s questions was included in the article.

Hi Ian, I've just had a chat with Howard in Broads Control and so I'm replying on here on his behalf (and for the benefit of other forum members). To answer your question, the Authority has no intention to leave the moorings at the Berney Reach. The smaller section closer to the pub is owned by the Authority so there is no lease to run out - we have no intention of leaving here. Furthermore the larger section is leased from the RSPB, however we have no intention to lose this stretch as a 24 hour mooring either. Hope that helps, Tom

This hits the nail on the head. Double mooring will be allowed in locations where it is usually permitted as long as social distancing is followed. For example you might have a household or support bubble split over multiple vessels who wish to moor alongside each other, or you might have someone who wishes to moor alongside another vessel but not access the bank. We've decided to not allow it at Yacht Stations as our Quay Assistants would have to climb over vessels containing two groups of people and would be in close proximity to them to help with mooring up. This isn't really feasible or sensible with the current social distancing guidelines. Best, Tom

Hi all, Today's statement below, more details over coming days. Following the Government announcement on 23 June regarding the easing of lockdown restrictions, the Broads Authority is pleased to welcome back private owners and hirers for overnight stays on boats in the Broads area from 4 July onwards. Those who are planning to stay overnight on their boat or to hire a vessel must follow the Government instructions on social distancing and local safety information provided by the Broads Authority. Please await an announcement on our website and social media tomorrow (24 June) with further information and details: https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/news/coronavirus-covid-19 Best, Tom

Hi all, Today's statement below, more details over coming days. Following the Government announcement on 23 June regarding the easing of lockdown restrictions, the Broads Authority is pleased to welcome back private owners and hirers for overnight stays on boats in the Broads area from 4 July onwards. Those who are planning to stay overnight on their boat or to hire a vessel must follow the Government instructions on social distancing and local safety information provided by the Broads Authority. Please await an announcement on our website and social media tomorrow (24 June) with further information and details: https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/news/coronavirus-covid-19 Best, Tom

Thanks @JawsOrca As a member of the team involved with our social media, it is proving somewhat challenging to get the message across that we are not the Authority stopping overnight stays. We fully appreciate that it must be incredibly frustrating for boat owners, especially when you turn on the news to see large gatherings, but unfortunately this is the case for a lot of industries at the moment such as caravans, campsites, self-catering accommodation etc. We are hopeful that things will change this summer and these industries will be allowed to open up together when it's safe to do so. If anyone is not subscribed to it, our latest monthly newsletter touches on this - 'Of course the next challenge is to get trip boats operating and overnight stays permitted. We will continue to support the Government messaging around social distancing to help maintain the downward trend of infections which could help the holiday trade return sooner rather than later.' It would be incorrect for us to say that we are 'lobbying' Defra, however we are certainly in regular communication with them. I know that John has spent a considerable amount of his time over recent weeks/months discussing the unique issues that we face in the Broads with Defra representatives. Things can unfortunately move slowly when there are 'chains of command' to follow, however we are certainly pleased for our friends in the hire boat industry with this latest announcement. We continue to work alongside other inland navigation authorities to speak to Defra and work with them towards a safe and controlled return to normality for boat owners. Tom

Our official update below: The Broads Authority is pleased to receive news today from Defra regarding the conditions under which hire boats can resume operation in the Broads from 11 June. Self-drive day boats, canoes and other paddle craft may be hired (no overnight stays) by members of a single household or ‘support bubble’ and operators will have to fulfil requirements to observe social distancing and cleanliness guidelines to ensure the safety of staff and the public. The hire boat industry has been hard hit by lockdown restrictions and whilst overnight stays, holidays, skippered hire and boat trips in the Broads cannot yet resume, families can now get back on the waterways for a few hours to enjoy the special qualities, wildlife and beauty of the Broads which will be a welcome escape from the challenges of the last few weeks. The Authority urges anyone considering hiring a boat to think about ongoing restrictions which may require them to plan ahead by bringing drinks and picnics or finding out in advance which businesses are open. It is also wise to avoid known popular Broads hotspots so that social distancing can be maintained. Litter has been a problem is some other National Parks so visitors are urged to take litter home with them. For full detail of the new Government guidance relating to boating go to: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/covid-19-coronavirus-using-a-boat-inland-and-on-the-coast Thanks, Tom

Good morning all, We are aware of the posts on social media by Barnes Brinkcraft regarding hire boats and their statement that they have received permission from DEFRA and the Broads Authority to recommence hiring. This is categorically untrue, we are expecting an announcement soon from DEFRA on guidance for hire craft however no permission has been granted by the Broads Authority and we are still waiting for the Government announcement. We are now in direct communication with Barnes Brinkcraft’s management to get this clarified and corrected. We are conscious that this will have caused confusion amongst hirers and business owners. Please await further news soon. Tom

Hi Skipper, Just to confirm our Paddy’s Lane 24 hour moorings have had the timber completely refurbished with new tie rods and some anchor pile work. The contractors undertaking the work have been waiting for a supply of woodchip (approximately 120 cubic metres) to finish off the work and open up the mooring. Obtaining it during the lockdown has been problematic but the supply is now arranged. The mooring will be opened up as soon as the work is completed and signed off. I am a little surprised to hear that there are no information signs there other than the NO MOORING, perhaps something as happened to them. I'll raise it with my colleagues. Thanks, Tom

Hi all, thought you may appreciate an update: Reports from our Rangers were overwhelmingly positive over the weekend. It appears that the Broads has largely escaped the issues experienced other upland National Parks and at certain locations at the coast. It was busy with lots of people out enjoying their boats and paddlesports, but nearly all following the social distancing guidelines. Many a friendly nod/wave/word was exchanged and people seem delighted to be back on the water. Also, the majority of boats were tolled (thank you), although a small number of vessels were not. Reports from places such as Ranworth/Hickling/Wroxham/other honey pot areas were that people were enjoying the weather on land too, but were being sensible and staying a good distance from each other. Unfortunately I have seen a number of reports of people fishing during the coarse close season at various locations across the Broads network, and the Environment Agency has been prompted to monitor and take action where they can. Whether this is down to confusion regarding the Government permitting angling from 13 May onwards or not is unclear. We appreciate it is frustrating for those that still aren't able to make the journey back to the Broads or stay overnight under the current guidelines, but we are expecting the Government will change this as soon as they deem it safe and appropriate to do so. The no overnight instruction from the Government has helped to limit the potential for people to flock here en-masse and adversely affect our local communities. It will be fantastic if the public can continue to lead with this great behaviour over the coming bank holiday weekend. If anyone has any further questions or needs assistance please drop me a line on here or get in touch with us via our website. Tom

No, I just happen to be the website manager too

Broads Authority statement 13 May: Government confirms that private boats can use Broads waterways The Broads Authority has today received confirmation from Defra that privately owned powered boats can be used on the Broads for day trips as long as other guidance on social distancing is followed. This follows guidance issued earlier this week that allowed sailing and paddle boating (including canoes, kayaks and paddle boards) to resume. Whilst other inland waterways face a delay in the return of powered private boats, the Broads is able to welcome boaters back because maintenance of the waterways has continued throughout the COVID-19 lockdown. Whilst the public are advised to stay at home as much as possible, from today (13 May) you are now able to leave your home and travel to exercise or spend time outdoors from today. As well as the relaxation of boating restrictions, owners may also visit their boats for leisure or to do maintenance but are not able to stay overnight away from their usual residence (so day trips only). The Authority urges people to take care to follow guidelines and respect social distancing and to bear in mind that many businesses associated with boating may not yet be able to open. It is also essential that boaters contact marinas where there vessels are moored directly to see if they are able to access them as some businesses may not be open or able to facilitate safe access. The revised guidance on returning to work (if you are not able to do so from home) may also mean that some businesses may be able to re-open whilst others cannot. As well as restrictions business owners will have to judge whether it is safe to re-open and if they can apply social distancing/precautionary measures to protect staff and customers. Whilst we all pleased that we can access the Broads again, the threat of Coronavirus is still very real. It is up to all of us to ensure the guidelines are followed to help save lives and protect our NHS. Read the full statement on our website: https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/news/coronavirus-covid-19

Broads Authority statement 13 May: Government confirms that private boats can use Broads waterways The Broads Authority has today received confirmation from Defra that privately owned powered boats can be used on the Broads for day trips as long as other guidance on social distancing is followed. This follows guidance issued earlier this week that allowed sailing and paddle boating (including canoes, kayaks and paddle boards) to resume. Whilst other inland waterways face a delay in the return of powered private boats, the Broads is able to welcome boaters back because maintenance of the waterways has continued throughout the COVID-19 lockdown. Whilst the public are advised to stay at home as much as possible, from today (13 May) you are now able to leave your home and travel to exercise or spend time outdoors from today. As well as the relaxation of boating restrictions, owners may also visit their boats for leisure or to do maintenance but are not able to stay overnight away from their usual residence (so day trips only). The Authority urges people to take care to follow guidelines and respect social distancing and to bear in mind that many businesses associated with boating may not yet be able to open. It is also essential that boaters contact marinas where there vessels are moored directly to see if they are able to access them as some businesses may not be open or able to facilitate safe access. The revised guidance on returning to work (if you are not able to do so from home) may also mean that some businesses may be able to re-open whilst others cannot. As well as restrictions business owners will have to judge whether it is safe to re-open and if they can apply social distancing/precautionary measures to protect staff and customers. Whilst we all pleased that we can access the Broads again, the threat of Coronavirus is still very real. It is up to all of us to ensure the guidelines are followed to help save lives and protect our NHS. Read the full statement on our website: https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/news/coronavirus-covid-19

Hi @JawsOrca I'm sure they won't mind me sharing this - I'm aware that British Canoeing will be issuing their own update shortly supporting a safe return to the water for paddlers. If you have full paid up BCU membership, this is still acceptable in lieu of a toll to use the Broads waterways from tomorrow. However, if you have membership through a club (rather than full membership) it won't be enough to paddle on licensed waterways. I believe they are releasing a statement this afternoon so keep an eye out for that. Hope that helps, Tom

Thank you @JawsOrca for reproducing. Webpage here: https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/news/coronavirus-covid-19 Updated FAQs here: https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/news/coronavirus-frequently-asked-questions We will try to answer any questions that people may have, although it's very busy as you can expect. Thanks, Tom

Our website had a blip, I've just fixed it now. https://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/boating/owning-a-boat/tolls/annual-toll/annual-toll-check Tom

Maxwellian is correct. We have delegated responsibility to do our jobs but will of course receive input from others where required. I can’t think of any local authorities who would require upper management or the CEO to approve everything that goes out in said authorities name. There’s a lot of cross-team working at the Authority and if I need to provide someone with some information (e.g an update on a specific element of some dredging works), I will easily be able to get it from one of my colleagues in the ops team and relay it to whoever has asked. On the other hand, if we had to get executive management sign off for all of the hundreds of proactive and reactive posts, tweets and public email responses that we make each week we wouldn’t get much done! John and our directors are very busy dealing with higher level issues and managing their own teams. Things are of course different with particularly sensitive topics, e.g if we are putting a statement out on tolls, funding, governance (etc.) and this will have input and approval from management where required. Hope that helps Tom

One final comment, the 'executive' has had absolutely no involvement with the planning or production of this article or the Nature in Lockdown social media campaign. Tom

From the mouth of someone directly involved with helping the campaign, anyone reading the content on the above page and thinking there is a hidden agenda relating to eroding the rights of boating is reading far too much into it. The idea is to encourage people to notice the wildlife around them, whilst they can't do other things as a result of the lockdown, so that they appreciate it more, get personal benefits from enjoying it and hopefully care more about the environment/the outdoors going forwards. Yes, we haven't 'closed' the rivers as people still live on the water and maintenance vessels/emergency services are still accessing it. Furthermore, with over 100 miles of waterways it would be impossible to properly close off and prevent access to the water, nor would it be appropriate. Our plea for people to not access the rivers at this moment in time is quite clear and straightforward, and if we were continuing to support people to access the water at this moment in time for leisure purposes it would fly in the face of every Public Health, Government and Police message out there. We have also had many messages from concerned local people, many of whom are vulnerable or elderly, who live in Broadland villages and are worried about the impact of people still travelling to/around the area and spreading the disease. If you are reported to or caught by the local police 'having a jolly' down the river or moored up on your boat enjoying a drink in the sunshine, you are quite obviously and unquestionably not following the Government instructions to stay at home and don't travel unnecessarily. The instructions are clear, our stance is clear and as much as we all want things to return to normal there isn't much we can do until the lockdown is eased. Finally, at the risk of repeating the same comments I don't think there is anything else productive for us to add to this thread, so if there's any further queries or concerns please direct them through our website and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks and hope you all have a pleasant afternoon, Tom

Sorry, I should have also clarified in that response to Marshman, we haven't 'closed' the Broads and nor do we have the powers to - we are just asking that people follow the Government advice and don't visit here at the moment. The police may decide to actively enforce in certain cases, but it's more about getting the (albeit strong at times) message across about us all doing our bit to stay at home. I wasn't suggesting that anyone on here is trying to find loopholes by the way Andrew (and other members). Although from speaking to my colleagues / BroadsBeat we have certainly had some interesting interpretations on essential travel recently! I/we fully understand the confusion created by this police document. It has certainly muddied the waters (no pun intended) and is probably why we are still responding to enquiries on our social media about whether people can drive to us and visit the area this weekend at 8.20 on a Friday evening Again, thank you all for your ongoing support, understanding and patience. It is a shame that things have become so frustrating and confusing but we hope that future guidance will be clearer and we'll be safely allowed to be back on the water sooner rather than later. Tom

The advisory note from NPCC for police officers is specifically in respect of what is seen as 'reasonable' from a legal perspective. It is not Government advice and you will note that all of the instructions on the Government website have not changed: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-guidance-on-access-to-green-spaces https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do/coronavirus-outbreak-faqs-what-you-can-and-cant-do#can-i-drive-to-a-national-park-or-other-green-space-to-walk We are not ‘enforcing’ anything, just helping to share the message and assisting the police where necessary. All of the National Parks family are continuing to repeat and share the Government instructions. The vast majority of the public are welcoming this as a sensible approach to help prevent more people from unnecessarily losing their lives. We agree the mixed messaging from the police and Gov is not helpful but this is not the time for the public to be trying identify loopholes. Tom

I believe the NPCC advice only refers to the legality of police enforcing social distancing, however the Government's guidance regarding access to open spaces remains the same: stay local, use open spaces near to your home where possible and do not travel unnecessarily (https://www.gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-guidance-on-access-to-green-spaces) Tom

All of the National Parks' managing bodies are called authorities. This is demonstrated by searching 'National Park Authority' on the following page for English parks: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations or looking at specific park websites. As well as a tourism website, many National Park Authorities also have a separate website that includes the term Authority in highly visible locations, e.g. in their URL, website title or in a dedicated section on their site https://www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/ https://cairngorms.co.uk/ and https://www.beacons-npa.gov.uk/