Spalding’s Water Taxi has been unable to leave its base since August 29 after weeds built up around Little London Bridge, prompting calls for a clean-up of the River Welland.
The ferry service, operated by Anthony Grunwell, carries people between Spalding town centre and Springfields. Mr Grunwell told The Voice that, following discussions with the Environment Agency, he hoped the attraction would be back open on Tuesday, September 15.
The expected reopening date was reported on September 9, but the source does not confirm that the water taxi has since resumed operating.
Previous season lost after river problems
The latest interruption follows an earlier period when the business was unable to operate for a whole season. That disruption came after damage to the river bank and a subsequent lack of water in the Welland, according to Coun Mark Le Sage.
The councillor recently visited Mr Grunwell and criticised the authorities responsible for the river’s management and maintenance. He said the build-up was leaving the water taxi unable to access the Welland and that the weeds were beginning to rot.
He also raised concerns about the effect on the people working on the attraction and on the wider town-centre economy.
“The taxi pilots aren’t getting paid and it ultimately means less people are visiting Spalding so footfall will be affected causing more financial issues for businesses.”
Coun Le Sage said the river was becoming unpleasant to look at for people arriving in Spalding and that the decomposing weeds were beginning to create a smell. He argued that the material should be removed from the water rather than spread further downstream.
His concern was that dispersing the weeds could simply move the problem, creating a blockage elsewhere in Spalding or in the Coronation Channel.
Environment Agency sets out risk-based approach
An Environment Agency spokesman said work to keep rivers navigable was carried out on a risk-based basis, taking account of the resources available. The agency said it was funded to remove obstructions where doing so reduced flood risk to local communities, but added that weeds and other floating vegetation rarely created a significant flood risk.
“We understand people’s love of this river and are working with our partners to remove the blockage and resolve the issue.”
The agency asked residents to report environmental issues through its 24-hour hotline on 0800 807060.
Coun Le Sage said he hoped the authorities would act soon enough for the water taxi to return before the end of the season. Until the blockage is dealt with, the service remains unable to leave its base, with the potential loss of passengers affecting the attraction, its pilots and businesses that benefit from visitors travelling between the town centre and Springfields.