Issue - meetings

Councillor Colin Barnard

To consider a report on the construction of a new jetty with access from the bandstand in Staines-upon-Thames.

Cabinet considered a report on a new jetty for the river Thames with access from the bandstand in the Riverside car park.

Spelthorne Borough Council has one of the longest stretches of the river Thames along its border, outside of the London Boroughs, extending for around 11 miles.  The river Thames is regarded as a key asset of the Borough, and the Council is keen to maximise its potential. There has been a very strong demand for a stopping off point in Spelthorne for commercial boat trips along the Thames for many years, but limited opportunities for riverboat companies due to the lack of exclusive access to moorings.  

Alternative options considered and rejected by the Cabinet:

·         to provide a licence for exclusive use of part of the moorings opposite the old Town Hall

Resolved to approve the construction of a new jetty with access from the bandstand in the Riverside Car Park, Staines-upon-Thames.

Reason for Decision

The introduction of a new jetty for the exclusive use of commercial riverboat operations would increase the competitiveness of Staines-upon-Thames as a destination and increase the number of visitors to the town which would support our retailers.