Development of Moorings and Marinas
Land owners with property that adjoins waterways managed by British Waterways may consider developing a marina or smaller mooring basin. Not all sites are suitable for development, so an early call is advisable. Generally, BW is more likely to approve a scheme where the boats are kept in a separate body of water connected to the canal (known as 'off-line'), rather than moored alongside the towpath ('on-line'). A Marina Opportunities Guide will be available in January 2006 to guide potential developers through this process. All new moorings will require the negotiation of a connection agreement with BW and will require planning permission from the local authority.
We occasionally receive requests from private land owners to develop just a single mooring at the end of their garden or other land for their own use. Such requests are assessed on an individual basis, however, it is important to note that permission will not be granted for any additional end of garden moorings on the Kennet & Avon Canal at the current time. BW is committed to the protection of the canal environment and has undertaken to limit any growth in off-side moorings on this waterway.