Chance to give your views on Boat Safety Scheme
Broads boaters will have the opportunity, until mid-December, to comment on the new by-laws for the Boat Safety Scheme (BSS), and on the new Broads requirements for privately owned boats in the new year.
Boating groups are being asked for their views on the by-laws which will give the Broads Authority powers to require vessels to be examined at least every four years by an authorised BSS examiner.
The national Boat Safety Scheme, developed by British Waterways and the Environment Agency, has been modernising its requirements for private craft with the help of the Broads Authority, boaters’ organisations and the marine trade over the past 18 months. This led to an open public consultation, which closes on September 30th, on the draft BSS proposals.
After taking the numerous comments into account, the modernised requirements are due to be published in January. Local boat owners will then have the chance to comment on its application in the Broads through a consultation process during the early part of next year.
All sailing craft covered by the requirements will have to have to pass a BSS examination, by April 2007 in order to gain a licence for the Broads.
The BSS examination applies to all boats with engines, and/or cooking, heating, lighting and refrigeration appliances to minimise the risks of fire, explosion and pollution.
To respond to the BSS consultation before September 30th email: consultation@boatsafetyscheme.com or write to Robert McLean,
Communications Manager, Boat Safety Scheme, Willow Grange,
Church Road, Watford, WD17 4QA.
To contact the Broads Authority about by-laws email: consultation@broads-authority.gov.uk, or write to Boat Safety Scheme Consultation, 18 Colgate,Norwich,NR3 1BQ
22/09/2004
