Environment Agency Smashes Illegal River Thames Mooring Ring
The Environment Agency has scored a major legal win against ten rogue boat-owners who illegally hogged mooring spots on the River Thames at West Molesey for years. The court has ruled in favour of the Agency, cracking down on the persistent trespassers and defending fair access to the river for all.
River Thames Mooring Rules: No Overstaying Allowed
Mooring along the Thames is tightly regulated. Boats can only stay moored for short periods—usually no more than 24 hours—ensuring everyone gets a fair turn. But these offenders blatantly ignored the rules, sticking around for weeks and blocking others from mooring.
Agency Enforcer: “Last Resort Was Taking Them To Court”
Joe Cuthbertson, an Environment Agency manager, said: “As the navigation authority for the River Thames, we took this case to court to protect and ensure the public rights of navigation and mooring for everyone.” After countless warnings and attempts to get the boat-owners to move, the Agency had no choice but to go legal.
Judge Backs Agency, Sets Stage For Tougher Enforcement
The court confirmed the Agency’s right to evict the trespassing vessels, sending a clear message: no one is allowed to abuse mooring rights at the expense of fellow river users. The disputed moorings were downstream of Sunbury Lock, with the Agency issuing formal eviction notices last autumn before launching legal action in March 2023.
A possession hearing held in late 2023 led to a judgment this March, affirming the Agency’s power to protect public river access. Another hearing by July 31, 2024, will finalise the eviction terms and any appeals from the boat-owners.
This ruling is a landmark moment for the Environment Agency’s fight to clamp down on illegal mooring and protect the River Thames for all who use it.
