New electric motor boats for the River Avon

Stratford-on-Avon District Council's Licensing Team has recently tried out the prototype of a new fleet of electric powered motor boats from Avon Boating that will be licensed for hire next year.

Although Avon Boating have a range of hire boats, it is hoped that the new motorised boats will prove to be a hit with visitors wishing to take a trip of the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Nick Birch from Avon Boating said: "The new electric powered boats are much quieter and very stable, so they are great from a noise and public safety perspective.

"Gradually changing our fleet to a more environmentally friendly electric version, instead of the existing petrol motors is going to be a huge benefit to the flora and fauna of the area."

Cllr Anne Parry, Regulatory Portfolio says: "People love to come to Stratford-upon-Avon and enjoy our green spaces and enjoy a trip on the river.  Nick and the team have shown great initiative by moving to a more environmentally friendly fleet.

"It's great to see our Licensing team working with Avon Boating and encouraging this business in making greener choices for their future. This is another small step towards the larger picture of addressing climate change in our area."

Avon Boating, which started hiring boats in the Victorian era, is the town's oldest business. Based at the boathouse in Swans Nest Lane, the firm employs 10 full-time staff and over 20 seasonal staff during the summer months.

In addition to the motor boats, rowing boats, punts and canoes for hire at the boathouse, Avon Boating also operates a fleet of wooden passenger boats listed in the National Register of Historic Vessels.