Tackling Illegal Moorings

For too long, illegal moorings have been a blight along the Thames riverbank in Elmbridge and a key local concern for my constituents.

I have consistently favoured the removal of illegal moorings through a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). In 2019, I formally requested that Elmbridge Borough Council (EBC) pursue the implementation of a PSPO as soon as possible.

To hold Elmbridge Borough Council to their decision, I launched my 2023 Illegal Moorings Survey, inviting thousands of Molesey and Walton residents to share their views on illegal moorings:

Despite four years of dither and delay, following pressure from myself and the Conservative group at Elmbridge Borough Council led by Cllr John Cope, the Council has now reversed its position and voted to accept my proposal to tackle illegal moorings properly with a PSPO. This is fantastic news for riverside residents and river users who can now expect to see proper enforcement against illegal moorings on council owned land.

A joined-up approach to enforcement

As the Environment Agency also owns a considerable stretch of the riverbank in Elmbridge, we have been pushing for them to take appropriate action to enforce against illegal moorings on their land.

So, it is good news that the Environment Agency have won their case against ten defendants – the owners of unauthorised moorings adjacent to Cherry Orchard Gardens in West Molesey. Whilst there is a period pending for a further hearing by the end of July at which the defendants may apply to appeal, this is a good step forward in tackling illegal moorings on Environment Agency owned land. I will remain in close contact with the Environment Agency to ensure this approach to enforcement is seen across their land in Elmbridge.

As Member of Parliament, I hold regular meetings with the Environment Agency to support them in enforcing against illegal moorings on EA-owned land. I will continue to work with both EBC and the Environment Agency to see both organisations taking a joined-up approach to enforcement.

You can read copies of all my correspondence on illegal moorings below: