Work has begun to remove five sunken boats from the River Avon in Bath, as local authorities take action to eliminate pollution risks and navigation hazards. According to Bath and North East Somerset Council (BANES), the vessels near Pulteney Weir have been submerged for years, posing dangers to boaters and the river’s ecosystem.
Council Steps In After Failed Attempts to Contact Owners
Councillor Tim Ball, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services, stated that the council had exhausted efforts to work with boat owners to arrange self-recovery.
“As a last resort, we are carrying out the operation on their behalf,” Ball said.
The removal process began on Saturday and is expected to take approximately one week.
Recovery Costs Estimated at £72,600
The council has confirmed it will seek reimbursement for the £72,600 removal costs once the work is completed.
“We’re chasing the owners for recovery costs, but we only know who owns one or two of the boats,” Ball explained.
Weather Could Delay Removal Efforts
Several of the boats have been abandoned for years, making the operation logistically challenging. The council noted that some vessels are in difficult locations, and removal efforts scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday next week will depend on weather conditions.
A similar attempt last year was abandoned due to bad weather.
Part of the Council’s Better Moorings Project
The boat removal initiative is part of the council’s Better Moorings Project, aimed at tackling long-standing mooring issues along the River Avon. Several other sunken boats have already been cleared by the Canal and River Trust.
While the council has promised to minimize disruption, sections of the towpath will be temporarily closed during the removal process.
