'BW mutualisation could fail'

THAMES User Group (Navigation) coordinator Michael Shefras has warned that should British Waterways 'mutualisation' include Environment Agency navigations it will entail extraordinary upheaval with a risk of failure.

Defra has already suggested the EA navigations could be included within the 'mutualised' or 'third way' or 'civil society' organisation, but the Thames User Group believe such a move puts the retention of the Thames lock keepers in real danger and could lead to asset stripping of the Thames.

With Michael warning:

"If this happens all the communities along the river from Lechlade (pictured above) to Teddington (pictured below)are in serious risk of major flooding when extreme conditions on the river occur.

"The River Thames is currently well managed, and after many years of close liaison with the river managers, the EA Thames Region is probably in the best condition for its disparate users since the demise of the Thames Conservancy.  TUGn certainly doesn't want to negate this achievement in an intemperate move to an untried body whose governance and funding is still suspect."

The EA is responsible for all water issues including flood, water supply and waste, fisheries, angling, recreation and navigation. TUGn met with Defra and with EA chairman Lord Smith. Having a campaign to protect the interests of the Thames boaters and businesses.