Broads Authority can do it

AN EXTENSIVE survey by the Broads Authority has shown that it is doing a good job of managing its waterways, in fact getting better year on year.

The results of a survey of Broads toll payers showed 65% felt the Authority did a good job compared to 63% in 2009 and 55% in 2005. With a massive 83% feeling the Authority offered them value for money with its services.

Highest priorities

The availability of free moorings, more dredging and better water quality were shown to be boaters' highest priorities for future spending, but most importantly boaters also felt the Authority was listening to their concerns more and keeping them informed of what it was doing.

Everyone who completed the survey was entered into a prize draw. The winner, Malcolm Halsey, (right) was selected at random by the survey company and will receive £100 towards the cost of his toll plus a lifejacket as part of the Authority's new ‘Wear It' safety campaign. Runner-up, Michael Richardson (left) also received a lifejacket from  Broads Authority Head of Safety Management Steve Birtles (centre) at Coldham Hall.

Very pleased

Chief Executive John Packman explained:

"We are very pleased with the results of the latest survey of our toll payers. Across the board they seem to feel we have either maintained our performance or improved it which is very encouraging, especially in the light of the staffing cuts we were forced to make last year as a result of the Government's spending review.

"The areas highlighted as top priorities for boaters are already some of our main objectives for investment in the coming year so we hope boat owners will continue to see that we are listening and acting on their wishes."

Somewhat different from what we boaters are used to!