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At a recent navigation committee meeting, its members voted to recommend the more modest 5.9 percent toll increase, an average of proposals that ranged from 4 percent to 7.5 percent. This lower increase would still require the Authority to identify £75,000 in budget cuts, potentially resulting in reduced staffing and services, including fewer ranger patrols and diminished dredging and weed-cutting operations.
Daniel Thwaites, the director at Barnes Brinkcraft and a member of the Broads Authority, said it puts a financial squeeze both on boaters and businesses. "We cannot keep going up because loud was the public outcry last time, and another steep hike will prove the catalyst for further outrage," he said.
While the Chief Executive Dr. John Packman acknowledged the financial pressures, he pointed out the possible risks of reductions in service, including fewer ranger patrol days. BA member and marine biologist Stephen Bolt also challenged the implication of reducing patrols when increases in the past were due to fatalities on the waterways. Members also demanded greater scrutiny of the Authority's operational efficiency and alternative income streams to take the burden off the toll-payers.
Dr Mark Collins, chairman of the Broads Society, suggested exploring all the revenue streams available, but Dr Packman advised that private-public partnerships could become politically contentious. Proposals on offer also include a freeze in tolls on hired sailing boats and incentives for the use of electric and hybrid boats.
It is expected to make a final decision on the proposed increase to tolls at its meeting on November 29, in its difficult balance between maintaining essential services and the financial challenges within the boating community.