Norfolk Broads Forum

Odd how the boat toll payers on the Norfolk Broads have zero say in tbis matter att all...it has been said that doing the same thing over and over again is insanity

The appointment of a new chief executive at the Broads Authority has ignited a renewed dispute between two long-standing factions: the so-called "parkies" and "navvies". The debate underscores growing concern about the future direction of the [/b]]Norfolk Broads, particularly its waterways.

Regarded as one of the most significant leadership decisions in over 25 years, the process has already proven divisive. The disagreement centres around the Authority’s dual responsibilities—preserving the Broads as a national park versus maintaining it as a navigable waterway.

On one side are the "parkies", who advocate for prioritising conservation and environmental protection in line with national park principles. Opposing them are the "navvies", who argue that the needs and rights of boaters and navigational interests are being overlooked.

The Broads Reform Action Group (BRAG), a campaign organisation, has raised concerns that the selection panel does not adequately reflect the boating community’s interests. BRAG has expressed particular unease about the composition of the board responsible for appointing the new chief.

Initially, the panel included a representative from Natural England, Tristram Hilborn—CEO of the Forestry Commission—and Dr Sian Limpenny, a marine scientist. Both Hilborn and Limpenny are also members of the Broads Authority. The panel is chaired by Harry Blathwayt, the Authority’s current chairman.

As the search for a new leader continues, tensions remain high, with critics urging a more balanced representation to ensure the future of the Broads reflects all its users.