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Broads Boaters Face Another 3.5% Toll Rise

Monday, 9 November 2026 at 07:56

Broads boaters could face a 3.5% toll increase next year as concerns grow over value for money and maintenance costs.

Boaters using the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads could face a further 3.5 per cent increase in navigation tolls next year, potentially marking the sixth consecutive annual rise.

The Broads Authority is proposing the increase for the 2027/28 season to help fund the maintenance and management of the waterways.

If approved, owners of the largest motor cruisers could pay £2,265 annually, an increase of almost £77, while smaller sailing dinghies would face charges of around £64.

However, some members of the authority's Navigation Committee have questioned whether boat owners are receiving value for money.

Committee member Mark Collins raised concerns that people were paying increasing amounts for services which appeared to be declining.

Fellow member Daniel Thwaites also questioned whether the authority was demonstrating sufficient value for money.

Others defended the proposals, arguing that maintaining safe and accessible waterways requires adequate funding.

The Broads Authority says navigation tolls help pay for essential work including dredging, maintaining moorings, managing vegetation and keeping channels open.

Figures also show that the number of privately registered boats fell by around 250 last year, reducing the authority's income.

The proposed increase has received support from the Navigation Committee but still requires final approval from the Broads Authority.

 

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