Pontoon FAQs
- Moorings – There are no public access moorings anywhere on the pontoon at any time. This is due to the hammerhead being reserved for commercial users (licence holders) and the remainder of the pontoon having handrails which make the disembarking/embarking of any vessel unsafe.
- Waterside tours available at the pontoon – These are privately operated businesses and are not managed by the Council.
- Why are the public prevented from mooring alongside the pontoon? The pontoon is mixed use and therefore the Council has had to make compromises to ensure the safety of all its users. Commercial services collecting passengers at the hammerhead means that a clear path needs to be maintained for the safety of those onboard and those embarking/disembarking which is why no public mooring is permitted at the hammerhead.
In addition, the installation of handrails along the perimeter of the pontoon (rather than at the centre as before), ensures greater accessibility and safety for pedestrians. However, in doing so the handrails make the disembarking/embarking of any moored vessel unsafe so mooring anywhere on the pontoon is no longer permitted.
- I use a wheelchair, can I get onto the pontoon? There are limitations with accessibility as the pontoon has been reinstated using the infrastructure originally installed back in 2006 and there wasn’t explicit provision made for wheelchair users in this design. However, the access bridge is 1700cm wide and the pontoon is 2500 wide which is sufficient for a wheelchair to gain access with caution. Wheelchair ramps are not provided. It should also be noted that for all visitors there are uneven surfaces and there can be a very steep gradient at any time due to the falling and rising tide (particularly at its lowest point) which will make access to and from the pontoon difficult. Wheelchair users may need assistance and, in some conditions, will not be able to access the pontoon safely.
- I want a licence, how can I apply? – Commercial licences will only be considered for commercial vessels providing a leisure service on the River Crouch and can produce a current Crouch Harbour Dues plaque. They are usually awarded on a 12 month basis from 1 April to 31 March and each vessel that uses the pontoon will require its own individual licence. To apply please go to our online application form. Please be aware that applying for a licence does not guarantee that it will be awarded.
- I have a question about the pontoon, who do I speak to about this? Please use our feedback form and a member of our team will contact you. You can access the feedback form here.
