Kent boaters fined over invalid registrations
The two Kent boaters were ordered to pay almost £1k between them after failing to comply with Environment Agency rules
Two Kent boaters have been order to pay a combined amount of almost £1k after using their vessels on the River Medway without valid registrations.
Craig Phillips from Wilmington was fined £200 with costs of £115, a compensation order of £189.94 and a victim surcharge of £20 at Maidstone Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
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His vessel RIO was seen on 22 June 2014 at Twyford Bridge Marina not displaying a valid registration certificate, and despite being made aware of the Environment Agency’s requirements, he failed to comply.
Meanwhile, Andrew Handley from Gillingham was found guilty of the same offence in his absence and fined £200 with costs of £115 and a victim surcharge of £15.
His vessel Sea Major was spotted without a valid registration certificate on 23 June 2014 in Bow Bridge Marina.
Mr Handley had cancelled the direct debit to pay for his registration and although he eventually paid the outstanding balance, he did not submit his insurance details to the Environment Agency boat registration team, which is a requirement of powered vessel registrations.
Environment Agency waterways officer Rebecca Cox said: “These results highlight how important it is for river users to ensure their payment and licence details are kept up to date. We carry out regular patrols on the River Medway, so owners of boats not adhering to the regulation could face prosecution.
“The revenue the Environment Agency receives from vessel licensing is used to fund our annual maintenance programme along the River Medway and maintain our locks, moorings, toilets and showers.
“We are lucky to have such a popular and well known public right of navigation in Kent that is enjoyed by so many. By not complying, the revenue is lost, threatening the future of this great waterway.”