Council takes action against ASBO boater
Boatowners who have been illegally mooring their boats on the Thames and the River Kennet have been served a court order.
Reading Borough Council decided to seek legal action against boaters following ongoing complaints from the public over some of the boatowners’ anti-social behaviour, including noise disturbance and litter.
The court order prevents the defendants from returning to short stay moorings at Christchurch Meadows, Kings Meadow, Chestnut Walk and behind the Queen’s Road car park in Reading for periods of longer than 24 hours or at all.
According to the Reading Post, the crackdown includes a boat, Blues 3, which has been the base for a persistent beggar who is alleged to have breached his ASBO twice.
Currently, the order has been observed by all defendants occupying public moorings illegally.
Richard Willis, Lead Councillor for Transport and Strategic Planning, said: “Despite repeated warnings some boat owners have ignored rules that restrict their mooring rights. “
“The only recourse to repeated infringements of the rules was to seek court action and the Council has now obtained a ruling that confirms the stance that has been taken. I hope that all owners will now respect the legal position and that further action will not be required.”
The Council will continue to monitor the moorings and have stated they will take action against those who overstay their welcome but said, “legal action is always a last resort”.
Picture credit: Pam Frew
