Overview

The Broads Authority Act 2009 grants the Broads Authority increased powers to regulate and manage the Broads navigation area, improve safety, and address environmental concerns. It introduces new regulations for boat safety, water sports, and information gathering, and clarifies the Authority's responsibilities.

Description

This Act significantly expands the Broads Authority's powers. Key changes include:

Navigation Regulations:

The Authority can issue general and special directions to vessels regarding navigation, speed limits, designated routes, and actions in emergencies. Non-compliance leads to fines. The Authority can also remove unsafe vessels and recover costs.

Boat Safety Standards:

The Act allows the Authority to set construction and equipment standards for boats, requiring insurance and registration. An appeals panel handles disputes. Exemptions are possible for small vessels.

Water Sports:

The Act introduces zones for water skiing and wakeboarding, requiring permits and adherence to specific conditions. The Authority can issue directions and cancel permits for safety or violations.

Information Gathering:

The Authority gains powers to request information from vessel owners and masters, and landowners regarding vessels on the Broads. Failure to comply is an offence.

Other Provisions:

The Act includes provisions for agreements with other organisations, information sharing, vegetation removal, and protection of Crown and Network Rail interests. It also amends the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads Act 1988, incorporating Breydon Water and the Lower Bure into the navigation area.

Government Spending

The Act doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, the increased responsibilities of the Broads Authority may lead to increased operational costs, potentially requiring additional funding from central government or increased charges for services.

Groups Affected

• Boat Owners and Operators: Affected by new safety standards, registration requirements, insurance mandates, and navigation directions. Potential for fines for non-compliance.
• Water Sports Enthusiasts: Subject to new regulations regarding water skiing and wakeboarding, including permit requirements and designated zones.
• Landowners: May be affected by the Authority's power to access their land for inspections and vegetation removal. May need to provide information about moored vessels.
• Broads Authority: Takes on significantly increased responsibilities and enforcement powers, requiring more resources.
• Great Yarmouth Port Authority: Affected by the inclusion of Breydon Water into the Broads Authority's jurisdiction.
• Network Rail: Subject to provisions protecting its use of vessels for railway maintenance and access to its land.

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