On Wednesday 25 June, Elmbridge Borough Council led a joint enforcement operation at Cigarette Island, East Molesey, with the Environment Agency, Surrey County Council, and Surrey Police. This follows the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) targeting unauthorised moorings on council-owned land.

Officers checked boat registrations, served trespass notices, and issued fly-tipping fines. Support and advice were also offered to boat dwellers on topics like registration, waste disposal, and access to services.

A salvage company has now begun removing sunken and abandoned boats, with further clean-up work continuing in the coming days.

Deputy Leader and Esher Residents Association councillor Simon Waugh said:

“The disruption from unauthorised moorings has gone on for too long. With the PSPO in place, we’re stepping up enforcement to protect our riverside and residents.”

This builds on successful enforcement operations from late 2024 and early 2025.

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