Preparation for safety works proposed by Bath & North East Somerset Council to moorings on the River Avon will take place later this week (w/c 8.4.14).
A temporary 150 metre floating boom below the river wall next to Bath Rec will be deployed to create a line on the water indicating to boaters that they must not cross the line and tie-up to the wall. New theft-proof signs will also be erected advising boaters that mooring is not permitted in this area.
The safety improvements, which require planning permission and are in a pre-application submission to the Planners, are in response to RoSPA recommendations and must be carried out prior to the moorings between North Parade Bridge and Pulteney Weir being re-opened. They are:
Moving the railings to the walkway at the top of the bank and install handrails down the steps to the lower level;
Clear signage and guidelines for those wishing to moor, including hire companies, of the expected standards and arrangements for high water, ensuring that boats are moved during high water levels;
Installation of permanent gates on the towpath at North Parade Bridge and Recreation Ground entrance by the radial gate, with signs showing diversions and a management plan to close the gates when the River is in spate, with arrangements in place for high water notifications so that owners/ operators can move, or at the very least secure their boats in good time;
Installation of handrails on steps down to cruise/trip boats;
Provide a small life ring at the top of the slope as a short-term safety aid.
The safety measures will go hand-in-hand with a new management and supervision regime for the moorings. The details of this new regime will be announced during the summer.
Councillor David Dixon (Lib-Dem, Oldfield), Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said, “There are a wide range of river safety improvements that the Council wishes to make before re-opening the moorings for boaters to enjoy. This means that we must restrict the ability for boats to moor for now so that once the planning application for safety works is approved, work can start immediately.”
______________
