New PSPO to crack down on unauthorised moorings in Elmbridge

We are now leading the way in addressing the problem of unauthorised moorings on land owned by Elmbridge. We are taking decisive action to protect our riverside sites and strongly urge the Environment Agency to do the same on the land they manage and join us in enforcing proper regulation and safeguarding our shared waterways.

The riverbanks of Elmbridge have been blighted by unauthorised moorings for years. These unauthorised vessels are not just an eyesore. Many bring with them anti-social behaviour, environmental damage, and serious safety risks for other river users. Residents and visitors have felt intimidated and deprived of their rightful access to Elmbridge’s riverside spaces.

We attempted to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in February 2024, but the PSPO was quashed on the sole ground that the PSPO should have included an exception for flood warnings, issued by the Environment Agency, up as well as downstream. These issues have now been resolved. After a third round of consultation with stakeholders, consideration of the responses collected during the consultation period and further legal advice, the new PSPO has now been implemented and is due to be enforced from 23 June 2025. 

Anyone mooring for longer than 24 hours at the following river sites covered by the PSPO will face Fixed Penalty Notices of £100. The Fixed Penalty Notice can be reduced to £65 if paid within 14 days, otherwise the full penalty will be due. It is an offence not to be comply with a PSPO. A person guilty of this offence is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to £1,000. 

Sites covered by the PSPO:

• Ditton Reach 
• Albany Reach 
• Cigarette Island
• Cowey Sale 
• Hurst Park 
• Surrey County Council’s land adjacent to Hampton Court bridge (Parrs Moorings) 

We have allocated funding specifically to tackle this issue, and where warnings are ignored, we will escalate enforcement, if needed. 

We will continue working with the Environment Agency, Surrey County Council, and Surrey Police.

Councillor Simon Waugh, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Commercial Strategy, said:

“Residents have had enough, and rightly so. After years of complaints and frustration, they will finally be able to reclaim and enjoy the riverside; walking, living, and relaxing in a space that is cleaner, safer, and truly welcoming. Now that we have taken action to protect our land, we will continue working with our partners and hold the Environment Agency to account to ensure they deliver on their responsibilities. It is time to give the Elmbridge riverside back to the people it belongs to.” 

All areas covered by the PSPO will be clearly signposted. We urge residents and visitors to report any breaches or anti-social behaviour so we resolve problems swiftly.

Find out more about the PSPO.