Broads boatbuilders get together to discuss green boat design
Tuesday May 17th Norfolk Broads Yacht Club 9.30 am–2pm
New ideas in boat design, with particular emphasis on the latest environmental thinking, will be discussed at a seminar organised by the Norfolk and Suffolk Boatbuilders Association on Tuesday 17th May at Norfolk Broads Yacht Club, Wroxham.
At the end of 2004, the Association commissioned researchers at the University of Newcastle to carry out a study of emerging technology and its application to boat design and manufacture on the Broads. The seminar is the conclusion of this £44,000 ‘Eco-Boat’ project which has been financed by £15,000 from the Broads Authority’s Sustainable Development Fund, and £30,000 from the European funded Broads & Rivers LEADER+ Programme.
The principal researcher, Melanie Landamore, whose family is one of the major boatbuilders on the Broads, will present her findings. Melanie, who gained a First Class Masters degree in Small Craft Technology at the School of Marine Science and Technology at Newcastle, is the great granddaughter of the founder of E.C. Landamore & Co of Hoveton.
Four presentations will include information about such diverse subjects as the application of fuel cells as power plants for Broads boats and the possible use of composting toilets. There will be opportunities for discussion on all the ideas and it is planned to form a working group of interested parties to take the ideas forward.
Peter Howe, the NSBA Project Manager, said:
“There is a growing awareness of the importance of environmental considerations in the manufacture and use of boats on the Broads. The Association expects that positive results will come from this groundbreaking study that will enable the local boatbuilders to tap into new markets and create a competitive edge for their businesses.”
The seminar is open to everyone interested in boating on the Broads. RSVP to Conrad Natzio, 01508 548675 c.natzio@btinternet.com.
11/05/2005
