The blight of illegally moored boats has long been a frustration for many Elmbridge residents, particularly those living along the River Thames in Molesey. This problem has been getting worse, and it is time to tackle it.
A council consultation, which closed in July 2019, presented four different options for dealing with the problem. Only one of these – introducing a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) – will be effective. It would stop individuals or groups committing antisocial behaviour in a public place by restricting unreasonable, persistent behaviour which has or is likely to have a detrimental effect on the quality of life of local residents.
I strongly supported this in my response to the consultation, which you can read here. It has been over five months since the consultation closed, so it is time for action. I am calling on Elmbridge Borough Council to begin the process of introducing a PSPO as soon as possible. This is particularly important as a further consultation process would be necessary before it can come into force.