Regarding: Treatment of K&A Continuous Cruisers
Dear British Waterways
I am writing to express my disapproval of the way BW have treated many residential boaters in the Bath area. A recent letter issued by you amounts to harassment, and the threat to remove and destroy boats has left many feeling persecuted and fearful for their homes. For some unfamiliar with their legal standpoint, this has caused considerable distress. All this in mid winter when boat life is very challenging any way.
The final suggestion to seek help from Social Services adds a hefty insult to injury. The majority of boaters served with the letter are hardworking, independently minded people. We are not, as insinuated, scroungers incapable of housing ourselves properly!
While I appreciate that there are a high number of boats in a small area (and that some do not cruise within the rules), a resolution to this will not come about through threats and insults. We need to create dialogue and to be imaginative in our problem solving to avoid a bitter and expensive dispute. The boating community is pulling together on this, we hope you can meet us with respect and an open mind.
Sincerely,
Hank Fisher
