An upcoming huge hike in fees to use Bristol’s harbour could make boat dwellers homeless, a community group has warned. A ferry operator has also said many small businesses on the docks face going bust if the proposed fee increases are introduced in April.
People who live and work in the harbour must pay Bristol City Council fees for things like mooring on pontoons, operating ferry services and lifting bridges. These fees will likely be hugely increased from April, under plans set for cabinet approval on Tuesday, January 24.
The harbour master said the fees currently charged are much lower than other similar harbours, and the extra money is needed to upgrade facilities around the docks. But almost 2,000 petitioners are urging the council to scrap its plans and negotiate with the community.
