BOATERS can have their say on a possible new water licensing system – but they need to be quick.
Waterway users have until April 22 to voice their opinions as the Canal & River Trust looks future-proof its licensing.
The charity wants to hear about the experiences that people have had and any changes they would like to see to the Trust’s approach to boat licensing.
It is anticipated that the commission, which has been set up to look at the current system, will make recommendations to the Trust’s Board of Trustees in September 2025.
The commission is being chaired by Andrew Cowan, a former senior partner at Devonshires, a law firm. It also includes Penelope Barber, one of the elected boating representatives on the Trust’s Council, and trustee Sir Chris Kelly, a previous senior civil servant and former boat owner.
Andrew Cowan said: “Over the past 30 years there have been significant changes in the use of the 2000-mile canal network managed by the Canal & River Trust. We have been asked to review the framework around boat licensing and to explore whether it is appropriate for the network’s future.
“As part of the process we are keen to hear from boaters and other stakeholders with a view on boat licensing. The responses will help us understand the views of different stakeholder groups and will be key to forming our thinking about the current licensing system and whether it can be improved.”
You can have your say by visiting the dedicated commission page on the Canal & River Trust website: www.canalrivertrust.org.uk
