The closure of a waste facility for boaters near Bath has sparked a dispute between the local council and canal bosses. The facility, which had been a hotspot for illicit dumping, was closed down following the council’s order, leaving boaters shocked and frustrated. Despite a petition signed by over 450 individuals, the Canal & River Trust revealed that their proposal to enhance security was rejected by Bath and North East Somerset Council, leading to the enforcement action and subsequent closure.
Mark Evans, regional director at the Canal & River Trust, expressed disappointment at the forced closure, citing the council’s rejection of their security improvement proposal as the primary reason behind the decision. Frustrated by the situation, he highlighted the financial burden caused by fly tipping at the facility, emphasizing that the issue is not solely attributed to boaters. In response to the joint statement from the trust and the council, council leader Kevin Guy criticized the trust for their failure to address the concerns of the Bathampton and boater communities.
Amidst the escalating dispute, Mr. Evans urged the council to consider a postponement of the site closure, while emphasizing the trust’s preference to invest in improving the facility. However, Mr. Guy reiterated the council’s lack of confidence in the trust’s ability to manage the site effectively, emphasizing the history of complaints and infractions. With the facility’s closure, boaters are left facing inconvenience and longer trips to dispose of their waste, further exacerbated by the lack of alternative nearby facilities.