It would appear, as an onlooker, that CRT want is for CC to pay more but without actually using the canals or any facilities. Given this would be the easiest for them I can understand why, but the reality is that no one, in any area of life, would expect to pay significantly more over a period of time but receive less or nothing in return. The sad reality is that if CCing is made too difficult through lack of facilities, lack of canal maintenance and lack of forward planning it will lead people being forced into either moving to marinas or off the water, which will in turn reduce the number paying the higher licence fees…which defeats the purpose! Definitely something CRT need to consider going forward. Thanks for your insights Chris. Have a great week…and a belated happy valentines to you too!
Thank you as always for your comments and support. I agree and i suspect the ultimate aim is to reduce the numbers of boats using the canals as it would again make life easier because of less use. I believe that strategy will never be discussed outside the confines of the exec meetings. I think if CRT engaged with the boating community more, that would be a start. We live in hope. Thanks Mishka.
Hi Chris, Very interesting vlog. Unfortunately you have demonstrated why it will be difficult for you to get any power with CRT. Asking for openness and transparency and honesty, most organisations just don’t want this. I wish you good luck with your quest. Look forward to the next episode. Look after yourself
Thanks Andy. It is the key to success when you’re dealing with people. I think the exec level management fail to recognise the benefits of bringing the community with them. I have a plan……
Hi Chris. Although I am not a boater, I do use the local network for walking and enjoy the tranquility of the overall ambience. Having said that I sometimes tend to open my mouth before engaging my brain which has landed me in a couple of tight spots over the years, and I applaud your calm approach to these quite high financial increases. How much does Mr CRT CEO get paid, how many middle managers are there, what strategy do they have to remove the many sunken or clearly abandoned boats which litter the waterways. Dredging must be a priority as the number of YT boaters who complain about getting stuck is plentiful. No, not CRT bashing, just looking for some simple scrutiny 😊. Take care and looking forward to seeing more from you in the future.
Absolutely agree and I too have got myself in hot water for telling the truth. I worked on a project in my last two years of service life and got sacked within three days as I told the project leader if I produced that amount of work in 18 months, I’d have been told I was failing yet you appear to think you’re working hard. Not a team player I was told and RTU’d. I’m going to have my say in an effort to assist CRT think differently. It’s important as I think there are some quick and easy wins if only they……get the boater on-side.
Hi Chris, I’m a CC widebeamer. And I enjoy many aspects of the CC life. I’ve had adjustments made to my license on account of my daughter’s diagnosis. Which the CRT were very helpful with and it means I don’t have to move the boat as far or as often. My other contacts with the CRT have been helpful and understanding. And I see CRT and volunteers doing what they can to make it a better place for boaters, members of the public and the local wildlife and environment. I also received the survey from the CRT and felt exactly the same way about the questions feeling very lead by those that conducted the survey to achieve the outcome they wanted to achieve. So I didn’t fill it in and return it because it felt like I was signing up to something that I wasn’t necessarily agreeing with. And my voice was being heard. Plus I felt there are so many variations to boaters wants and need that it’s impossible to take into account what everyone wants or needs. And seeing your year on year license fee increases was although affordable for me. It does leave a lot of boaters struggling to see where they are going to find this extra money from. In what is already a difficult time for affordability of anything and a lot of people going without. Myself included. I personally don’t think CCs should be the only boaters being given a license increase. Permanent moorings should be charged less of a increase, but CCs shouldn’t be the only ones getting to pay extra. I spend a lot of time on the Lea and I’m fortunate that I have a car, so disposing of rubbish and doing my recycling although a bit of a challenge. Most facilities like water, bins, elsan etc. are available to me. But I do ask anyone I meet if they could make a comparison between Waterways and CRT and they all say things just worked and the general upkeep was better. Now the CRT use volunteers from assisting on locks to cutting back vegetation and CRT workers of course, but a lot of boaters goodwill and sense of doing what’s right keeps things, for the most part ticking along. I too believe that if CCs are using the network the most then we should be paying more than anyone in a permanent mooring. If like I’ve seen on occasion those on permanent moorings go further afield for a little trip or whatever should also expect a little increase in fee. I’ve only ever stayed in one city and it was London. And I found facilities need to be increased and maintained. The lose of any facility in London will have big implications for those needed them. So I can understand peoples concerns. Sadly large built up areas like London and others of course do mean that members of the public and boaters I presume will vandalise or leave the facilities in a terrible state and how many times should the CRT be required to sort this out. Somebody told me a CRT toilet had been left with human mess all over the place. But like you say, what will these fee increases mean for us. Do we get more working facilities, better upkeep etc. etc. or just more of the same because all the increases are doing is filling a huge and increasing deficit because of the reduction in funding from the government. So basically more money, nothing back. Which seems the way for just about everything right now.
Agree with all you said. There was only so much I wanted to say in the vid and edited out much of your comment as it happens. I do know that when people ask for leniency they are good with that. Also, I believe a lot of it is who you talk to as I’ve heard of some other stories. Thanks for the comment and support.
I felt the same way about the survey .. I think around question 4 I gave my answer , then question 5 forced me to contradict my answer and vote in favour of their proposals so I exited ! .. I watched a vlog by the BBC recently and according to them , the trust have government funding until 2037 of 50 million pounds a year !
YOu have to remember Chris that if you have your boat in a marina that is located on CRT waters ways you pay the license, as well as your private marina fees. It cost me about £4500 per year to moor my boat wether I use it or not. So you as a CC get it fairly cheep. What do I get from my marina? Bins, shower block and pay as you use laundry and very expensive electricity (6% service charge), which I don't use when I'm on the canals. If you live aboard in marina's, you pay extra because of council tax. Broadly I agree with you on what the CRT could do for boaters.
There are other hidden benefits though Shaun. While I agree with you, you’re paying for stability, parking your car, security, easy access to water, bins, Elsan,possibly pump out and hook up, deliveries from amazon a post code to register for doctors and dentists. Don’t get me wrong, living in a marina isn’t cheap for what you get. I also think canal life is cheap and the good days have gone. I just want CRT to be more transparent and accountable.
Hi Chris, I know it’s not the main point being made but the way that I understand the increase(s) is +5/5/5/5/5% per year, not 5/10/15/20/25%, if I’m right then the end result is £1723 in 2028.
Thanks for that. I took the info from the website and if it’s wrong, the website didn’t make it clear. You’re right, it wasn’t the main point, just a lead in.
Love as ever brother, a lot needs saying, you’re touching on it and that’s good. Your heart is in the right place, never compromise…. Honesty without fear my friend.
@@chrismears-inslowtime it’s a pleasure mate, you joined the canal at a similar time to us, slightly different journey of course, as with all our stories, been good sharing some of yours. Thank you. If you’re ever up Peak/Macc, be good to say hi 🤗
I believe the accounts are in the public domain but ‘big hands’. Devils in the detail. That is not as easy to find. Need an accountant to look I suspect.
Hi Chris not a boater (yet) but my son is with his girlfriend. (Pillings Lock Marina) I absolutely love love love your videos brother and this one hits a lot of nails very firmly on the head. I actually started watching your “boat build” ones and subscribed then but for some reason the algorithm has thrown this one in and I’m really glad it did albeit a few months late! I firmly believe the CC’s need representatives on these forums and frankly I can’t think of anyone better than yourself. I’ve heard lots of stories from people at my son’s marina criticising CRT still and the consensus (even from them) is very definitely “not value for money”. CC ers are getting shafted. All the best to you though buddy. Keep your weapon clean and pointing down range.😉
Well said Chris, I think a lot of boaters are getting disillusioned with c r t paying more and getting less for our money, I've been boating fifty years now saw great improvements on the canals for years but since crt took over things have gone into decline to the point where I'm thinking of selling up😢
Points you’ve just made Alan, CRT should read. If I was the CEO I would want to take a looming hard look on how I was performing. I suspect, he doesn’t care and is not a peoples person because if he was, he would have created a different culture to the resourses based culture he has created. Truth is in the output. Words hide our lies. Someone said that in the vid…..
Hey Paul, thank you fella. You were a very nice first boating neighbour. How are things going. Living without that electricity line is very different. 😀🤔 keeps you.on your toes. Take care, Colin.
Yep. Although lots of work this time of year by many third party contractors. I wonder what the costs of that is now as opposed to when British Waterways were managing it. Pay and pensions are a big capital resource.
Hi Chris, wow this is some increase. I can’t help feel for those boaters that live on a boat and just about makes ends meet now, this is such an increase for them to find 😮xx
Chris, we'll where do I start. At the beginning............... a HUGE thank you for your support, your patience, your kindness, your friendship, and your knowledge of living on the canals. Happy valentines day.. We bashed through the locks, and we needed to, get it, and I had to go through the two long tunnels to get to Braunston. For those who have gone through tunnels such as those (both about a mile long) know that nothing much can be done to prepare the novice other than take is steady, whilst getting a move on because the longer you are in there the bigger the chance of meeting a boat coming the other way! Hey all went well. Thank you for a great video, and for my first couple of weeks on the cut, without that umbilical cord plugged into a marina's electricity supply, mmmmm it's very different ! Great video, great points and great to be able to discuss them with you. And it was great to have you aboad are the Watford locks. I am looking forward to you taking helm some more and feeling the difference on a more traditional style of boat with the Big ole Gardner 3LW motor. Enough said about CRT. You got it spot on..hopefully someone in CRT might venture out and get in contact with you, hey wouldn't that be something? Maybe they could have an area on the CRT website for boaters community, and landlubbers community to provide their thoughts. Take care, Colin. Looking forward next vlog and our onward journey.
One point that is again being missed is the fee marina moorers indirectly pay to the CRT on top of their boat licence fee. This is 9% of the mooring fee the marina passes on to CRT. In my case, this amounts to £334 on top of my CRT licence fee of £1195, which is close to the extra that CCs are being asked to pay. It’s also worth remembering that, despite being a major user, boaters' receipts only amount to about 10% of CRT income. Having said that I do agree that the CRT do seem to have a bloated management structure typical of most charity organisations.
I do realise the marina boats pay for the use of the marina as you float on CRT water. I suspect the cost of that water accelerates or declines with the marina facilities and location. I’m not complaining about the costs just what added value do we get. Also, you too, when you want to use the canals. To take away facilities without doing something that suggests they will have a consultation of relocation the waste facilities. Or Life Better By Water may not be a good strap line as it’ll be littered with bin bags.
Hi, Chris. I am still watching, but I haven’t had anything to say. I wish you luck with the CRT, but unfortunately, I have no suggestions for you. I’ve learned that when I’m ignorant about a subject, it’s best that I shut the hell up, rather than put my ignorance on display. Besides your grief about fees, I hope that the gods of fate are being kind to you. Already looking forward to your next vlog.
Always interesting, often fascinating...and this is one of those vlogs. You make excellent points Chris - you'd be an excellent addition to the CRT team - if only turkeys voted for Christmas.
Thanks for the comment and support. My plan is to help CRT but they do need to gain a bit of HUMINT. Human intelligence. You can only make the best decisions when you understand what it’s like to live the canal life. Can’t do it from an office.
I think you’re right. cosy life at the top of CRT, it’s too cosy. I think every top earner and CRT to get off their backsides and go out on the canals from month to see what the problem is. you can’t sit on your butt in an office to know what’s going on I’ve been at A boater for 20 years. and you can definitely see the change in the canals in that time.Great vlog 👍👍
Hi Chris I owned a boat for a little over 3 years, and I was appalled to see the number of boats not displaying a CRT licence, it was very noticeable on the K&A. I realise it is difficult for the CRT to police this, but they are losing a lot of revenue that boaters like you are having to compensate this shortfall. It must amount to millions!
Agree with reply. I don’t show my license to be honest as there is no requirement for it. Also, I live on a boat and don’t have the ability to print it out. The downside of everything being on-line to reduce cost. I’ve spoken to the mooring checkers who take the info, numbers and names are used as some don’t have a number displayed. Some don’t have either. Not sure what happens then.
Great vlog Chris. As always your deep thoughts say it all for majority of boaters I can imagine. Seems CRTs priorities need readdressing to be honest. Do wonder why they don’t go back into canal sponsorship where a company in or near the canal can sponsor it for subtle ads by paying for the upkeep of said canal. Could imagine a good income could be bought into the system. Would love you to interview some of the chiefs there. Best wishes Chris.
Chris, from where I sit, which is a long way from you geographically speaking, you make sense to me. Regrettably, I think applying logic to the situation might be wasted. The way I see it they (CRT) want boats decorating the canals but not using them or have I misunderstood the situation?
I agree. Your assessment will make their life simple. Except their rules, we (towpath livers) have to continually move. In fact if no one used the water, even easier! Thanks for the comment
I watch your channel regularly along with a few others and find them interesting. In the latest episode you referred to your licence fees and I thought they were fair enough if the facilities ( water rubish etc) were improved along with weed control and many of the obviously sunken abandoned vessels removed. You just seem to be paying more for less. Good luck.
Thanks Derek. I would be content if they just kept the status quo for a while and improved the canals by a continuous improvement program of dredging and foliage cutting. They do have a program but I don’t think they do enough as they don’t have the manpower nor the equipment. They let it all go. Along with the experience.
Well done bud,,, Ur words and points are absolutely spot on !!!! If the costs are going up they have to spend it on the water ways !! And obviously they are not at the moment! I live by the K&A and I gotta say it’s a bit of a state,,. It needs chopping back, trees are overgrown,,, damaging passing boats,,, oh I can go on and on but I won’t,, As I watched this vlog I thinking of something similar,,, We just put my father in a property, paid an awful lot of money for it as u guys do within ur boat/home and we pay a monthly service charge to maintain the grounds and provide recycling and rubbish collection, now if I’m paying that on behalf of him within the agreement and am not receiving that my thoughts are I’m being conned!!! So back to the CRT if I’m paying this tax/charge for living upon the canal I would most definitely expect u to put that money towards the up keep upon the canals to allow me to live upon it ! They Need a right kick up the arse ! Put the money towards up keep and provide a service! Enough said Well done Chris, love ya vlogs, look forward to the next 💪👍
Hi Rich. It’s a bit of a shame when you have to pay maintenance on the grounds of a property and the work is either not done or poor. Holding to account is an uncomfortable thing to do as in today’s world, you’re never too sure what the consequences will be? As for CRT, I have a plan to hold to account. It’ll be briefed on a forthcoming vlog. Clearly need to keep my powder dry for a while. Thanks for the support.
Hi Chris, You have brought forward many good points while staying fairly neutral with your opinions. One of my favorite sayings is "If you are not part of the solution you are part of the problem". I do not know how the CRT board is set up though it sounds as if there is not enough representation from the different facets of the boating community. I believe you had once mentioned that you attempted to get onto the board but your application was rejected. Chris you have a lot of common sense which is needed by the CRT, do keep trying to get onto their board if that is something that you would like to do. Hope to hear one day that you are on the board, Mark Alberta, Canada
Thank you Mark. The CRT needed 4 members on their council and I came 5th. Not bad but, I think I can gain more traction creating a bit of influence where I’m not aligned to keeping on side with things I disagree with. I am free to shoot from the hip a bit more. Thanks for the support.
Colin making a cup of tea! I thought he was an American? 😉 Or maybe he is a returning expat? I agree with most of the things you say about the CRT Chris, but don't let the subject lower your moral. Great vlog, thanks for sharing
Thanks Gordon. I learnt in the mob, it was useful to have a moan and I used to like it when the lads did. I knew what was wrong. The problem was when they stopped moaning. However, I think CRT ought to listen and try to bring the boaters more on-side. Colin is a returning Ex-pat.
@@chrismears-inslowtime I was also in the mob the RN so I know where you're coming from and completely understand including a year in the Display Team, performing at the Royal tournament plus touring, that kind of thing, I was always impressed by the The Queens Colour SQ's drills. I hope to meet you as pass along the K&A one day and share some woffle
It’s a good point that you made about the greater use of steel lock gates. I guess that some locks are listed structures so have to remain with wood gates but others could be changed as apparently the metal gates last for 50 years. I doubt that they cost more to make but is there the expertise to make them as I imagine the angle and balance will be different.
I reckon there are a few boat builders that could know up some balance beams to help cash flow issues many are facing currently. I just don’t think CRT are forward thinking enough. Innovation in the mind is required. I’m sure there are drawing of each lock somewhere and the balance will be created by ballast in the beams which surely must be easier to adjust with steel than wood….of the top of my head. Probably not that easy though.
Hi Chris I'm in a rush and not had a chance to check your maths. Have you allowed for "compound" interest? As the rate goes up then will CRT charge 5% of the new rate for the following year etc. i.e your future 5 year rate will not be 25% more than you are paying now, it will be more. Just a thought Mel
I was never good at sums. The numbers may be wrong but the principle is correct. The thoughts In my opinion aren’t far off the mark either. Basic analysis. Thanks Mel.
A thought inspiring vlog. CRT have a captive audience therefore they don't need to listen or act on your concerns. An unhappy work force would be worrying to me, bad management is toxic in any organisation. As you said snouts trough, gravy train and not rocking the boat, spring to mind. Anyway have a good week, black bit down, shiny bit up.
Hi Chris, all excellent points as usual. We used to moor in Braunston, and agree internet is very patchy. I had to switch to an EE sim to get any joy. Just popped you an email with some further points. Chat soon, Felix
Hi Chris, great vlog I’m fortunate on not to be still working and live in a marina on a mini wide beam, I agree that license fee needs to increase but when we go out cruising CRT just look like deliberate neglect, maybe I’m wrong but the CRT aren’t changing my mind. Thanks for bringing this important subject up 👍
I note that there are certain stretches of canal that are prone to vandalism, dumping and so forth. These zones are likely to require more money per lock and mile of canal to repair and maintain that other areas (not taking into consideration other factors like ground issues, topography, age etc.) The councils of the problem areas such as Burnley and Blackburn should come up with some money to help with the repairs and clean up work their residents are causing. These places are all keen to claim the canals are recreational spots for their residents instead of having to find alternative parkland. Just clearing all the junk dumped into canals already means a number of teams of workers, boats, tools and then road vehicles to cart stuff to the dump (and maybe fees imposed by the councils to use the dumps despite the rubbish being their responsibility in the first place). You are right about the volunteer lockies - a vast resources that upper management probably look down on. Apart from the volunteer lockies I do wonder whether there would be any way of including boaters in schemes to help keep certain stretches clear - such as ones prone to penny wort. Miss a tiny bit and it grows back like Quatermass. Perhaps some continuous cruisers who at times are only moving to abide by the rules would like to stay put a bit longer and in return help get the last bits of such invasive plants out of the water. There must be other ways to gainfully utilise resources that are available for tasks not being done due to costs etc. Lock balance bars. I note there are some (not all by a long way) locks that have preservation orders. No reason why others shouldn't be made in a more economical manner though, I I fully agree there, though I would like to know how much maintenance steel one require to keep rust away. This is for 2 reason; life of the lock gate and peoples clothes as they operate the gates with bum against the bar. It isn't like they are a standard design.
In para two you discuss if boater could help. I agree and the payback could be reduced license fees as they are rising. I don’t believe we should get things for free and the cheap lifestyle has gone. That boat has sailed. The problem with continuously cruising is just that. Those who CC but in the same stretch could add value under negotiation with CRT. It just needs to be thought out but it’s not difficult. It just requires a bit of time and better communication. Those steel/metal balance beams I’ve pushed appear to not be an issue and certainly are cleaner than the old wooden ones full of dirt and moss. Thanks for the comment.
Chris great vlog we are not canal boaters but had a boat many years ago on the Thames,we follow lots of canal boaters vlogs we really enjoy them,I hope crt do improve on facilities for you all,all too often we hear them saying about unable to get rid of rubbish or water taps not working surely these are basic requirements needed for you,lots of things could improve on without spending much money,they keep working on opening up new canals how about doing bit of much needed maintenance to the ones that are in use🤞🤞👍
Totally agree Jean. Any organisation should be held to account. The problem with the boating community, it moves on and people aren’t in a position to create alliances and cohesion. I want to assist where I can in the holding to account bit.
Hey Chris, I spoke to the CRT yesterday about the fees because I just could not calculate them due to me not understanding their wording. They confirmed that it’s 25% in total by 2028, so 5% year on year rather than 5% then adding 10%. I totally understand your main/ key message though which makes the sums kind of not the point. All the best! Claire x
Hi Chris has anyone looked where the boundaries are i.e title land abutting the canal. We accept the tow path is included the boundary line o,n the other bank where is the title line the canal edge or middle of the canal. This raises the question should the land holders be accountable. I know its a can of worms if the trees and bushes are on your land then its up to you to fix. what about the bank on your side if CRC dont own it it bears another question as to repairs
I have sought out the same point. Apparently CRT are accountable for 1 meter of the off side canal bank. Only recently found that out Peter. Therefore it falls into the too difficult bracket as CRT have largely sold off all their plant assets so rely on contractors to do that. They do have enough plant to do that work on a rolling program. It would need about 4 people who live on boats who could move their boats as they work. It just needs an operational mindset and not an office based one.
Some good and valid points Chris. I do think that CRT view boaters as a captive audience and therefore don’t require any extra effort on their part to keep them happy. Whereas, walkers and cyclists are greater in numbers but require effort and investment to grow their numbers. Apart from potentially using these groups to exert more pressure on central government to reassess funding there isn’t any payback loop for CRTs investment in these groups. I strongly agree with your comments around accountability at senior levels in CRT. I would draw some parallels with Birmingham City Council and others who are wasting our money hand over fist and are never taken to account. They just increase council tax and continue to waste money on many but not all pointless investments. Perhaps the government are trying to make CRT more accountable rather just holding their hand out for more funds.
I think society has become lazy in holding organisations to account. Largely because we are having an easy time, despite what some might feel or say. If we were really struggling we as a country would return to the 70s. We’re far from that era although the tide may be turning on some issues. I just want to do my bit. If Mr Parry knows who I am, that’ll be a good thing. I’m making inroads. Thanks John.
A very perceptive vlog this time, Chris. In my old job, I used to facilitate workshops within the organisation, and just like your paid workers, I got more honest views of the management and organisation during the comfort and fag breaks. BTW, re your knees, if I were an Mk 2 Cortina, I'd need a bit of welding and probably a few suspension joints replacing! 🙂 Have a good week.
Thanks Malcolm. Good point on the Mk2. My body has been abused for long periods of time carrying heavy loads with guns and bullets. My back was in tatters this week. Thanks for the support.
Hi Chris great vid. Spot n with the CRT comments. I have been trying to work out if as CCers we really do use more of the network, in the winter months possible yes. In the summer a CCer will still stay in one place for 14days (maybe) where as someone coming out of a marina will use more locks more water points and more rubbish points. A lot of CCers try to stay in one area sum CCers do travel the network. From the CRT there are no facts and figures on this. Call any time 👍. 😀😀
Hi Chris I just wanted to say I totally agree with your views and comments on the license fee and the crt,s handling of the situation , being a new boater things I have noticed that would make a big difference include better maintained tow path and mooring and also water management with so many leaky water points and leaking lock gates I dread to think how much water the canals lose each year but iv got to the point where I try not to think about it because I'd find it too depressing and I didn't move onto the canals to worry and get depressed about things I can't control 😊😊
There is wastage across all the water authorities. I think no-one is held to account properly. The CRT and all the water authorise waste water. It would be better to re-nationalise most if them. We don’t belong back in the 70s and I think the public sector could do a better job and the ministers would hold them to account better. It does need investment though. Thanks Nathan.
@@chrismears-inslowtimeas usual Chris youv hit the nail bang on the head , I remember one of susaks first speeches saying this was going to be the government of accountability but I haven't seen that happen yet
Bins are being removed along the canal network. CRT made an announcement in their weekly Boaters’ Update last year about it and said this would begin with the removal of dog waste bins on the towpath. Reason given was that it was too expensive to have them emptied. I emailed the CRT and complained. I said we’d have more dog mess on towpaths (and this has come to pass) and that there would be little bags hanging from trees. A lady from the CRT said this was the first she’d heard about this (oh really?) and that she’d investigate and come back to me. Guess what? Never heard anything!
Everything you stated has come true and I’ve stood in the offending offerings too many times now. Perhaps the CRT could save more money by paying execs less in bonuses and holding them to account to deliver more. But, they’re delivering what it is the Trustee’s are demanding. To what standard…..discuss.
If (as is inferred by the specific targeting of continuous cruisers) CRT want to stop the CC lifestyle, then why don't they invest in some sort of municipal marina scheme, where CRT themselves create the marinas to house those that cannot afford extortionate private marina fees? Something with just basic facilities: Water, waste and electricity on meters, with parking and possibly a slipway for blacking and trailer/dinghy access to the canal, run by volunteers. At least then the boat owner will be getting something for their extra fee, rather than being expected to pay double for nothing in return or even worse a degrading canal network. I can see that sort of thing being an asset to CRT, they have land all around the network that seems to just fall into the hands of developers for a short-term pot of cash, rather than investing to provide a long-term asset to the canals. It wouldn't even take much development: there are plenty of disused arms that could be brought back into use using equipment like dredgers that CRT already own. All it would take is the installation of pontoons and facilities to create a "linear marina". Otherwise, without the requisite investment and tolerance for CC-ers, it would seem this is just a move to gentrify the canals and remove those that are struggling to survive from the canals altogether. Hardly the inclusive attitude that CRT bandy about on their website as CRT would rather wield the stick instead of providing support. For instance a distinct lack of discounts for those on fixed incomes or benefits, or help and understanding for people in that situation. There seems no effort for instance to negotiate with HMRC or the government to legally recognise CRT as a boater's landlord, so that CRT fees could be paid like rents are paid to landlords for those on benefits or pensions. Thereby guaranteeing CRT fees are paid even by the most vulnerable.
I’ve thought of the very same thing Mark. It would need investment which I’m sure central Govt might be aligned to when the discover they would have to house those who can’t afford to be on the water. That of course doesn’t come out of the CRT pot so the CRT aren’t bothered about the consequences of loosing customers. I think it would be better to re nationalise the waterways so it’s run better and people become more of a focus. Currently its about nature and the wider public for ‘wellbeing’ purposes.
Good talk. For comparson to my house rates in New Zealand. My weekly rates are $72.85 with pensioner discount of about $200 a year. An amount of approx $3,788. The fornightly payment of my rates comes to about one seventh of my fornightly pension for comparison. But I live in a beautiful town with wonderful facilities. I wonder how your licenses compare to your village rates? But as you say what facilities do you get and how are they maintaining the waterways. Or are they just continually plugging the holes. Are there otherways they could raise money or have local areas maintain the walkways/ towpaths. As they are surely assests to the communities the canals past through? .While the CRC? concentrate on keeping the canals usuable and healthy. Also why are your elsan points so awkward and high to use. Every town in NZ has at least one dump station (as we call them) . My town has 4 to my knowledge. A lot of petrol stations have them, all for the traveling and holiday vans/ campers etc and of cause stock trucks. Though they usually use dump stations in the more country or industrial areas and which tend to be larger in size. The motorhome people can use them too. All at ground level in a hole so no lifting.Though don't drop your car keys😅! Plus a tap and hose for washing cassettes and pumpout hoses. And usually potable water as well.
Para 1. The CRT are raising finds and awareness as a priority task and also the towpaths are on an improvement scheme but the towpaths are generally paid for by other organisations - cycling have an influence. Certainly cheaper than village rates as we can’t use the library, doctors, dentists etc. Para 2. I believe all that Elsan stuff is down to culture. It would be worse for CRT is they didn’t provide them as the sewage would be dumped in the canal. 50 yr ago, that was the case but ‘Blue’ is highly toxic and bad for the fishes. Transparency is key and getting out on the water also helps. Not sure the exec team does enough of that. Tanks for the comment and enjoy your week.
Hi Chris, I agree with what you say, the canal do need looking after more. I’m afraid that I think your sums were wrong, you should have only been adding 5% each year to the new total . Cheers mate
Well done Chris you have put it out there and stuck your head out... Its easy just to pay and moan and say nothing and i think it will take a lot more people to be brave to make a difference leta see...👍🤛
Hi Max. I hope you are well. In short yes there is a license and it’s going up every year for those who live on the towpath above and beyond those who reside in a marina and above the rate of inflation for the next 5 years. My plan is to try to gain some form of accountability for the extra money we are going to pay. Keep going with your channel. It’s hard work but you’ll be learning with each vid you put out.
So a CC only has to move 26 times a year, (once every 2 weeks) to satisfy the T's & C's of the licence. However a shared ownership boat, is out on the system for 48 weeks of the year, every week. So how does a CC use the network more ? If a CC has to pay more to use the network all year, is there to be a restriction on network use, for those who don't pay more. --- No.
@@chrismears-inslowtime at the end of day, they've been wanting CC'ers off the cut, for years. They need "All" Boats nicely tucked up in Marina's, (and in my opinion) so the network can be controlled. Hence having even more control of one's life, and how it is lived. I don't do being controlled by anyone or anything. Which is why I prefer to be as far out of the Dystopian system we are currently facing as I can. Should SHTF happen, the Very last place I want to be, is in a marina. Hats Off, Chris Happy Days. 👍
Hi Chris as a new boater I can’t really comment on how CRT run the network yet , however my first impression isn’t good . I bought my boat in Dec 23 and duly payed my CRT dues declaring myself as a CC ,however it’s now feb 24 and I haven’t left the marina as all the canals/ rivers in Berkshire are closed. I contacted CRT to put my license on hold till I was able to use the network and change my mooring status but was told it can’t be done. As fees are none refundable and there not responsible for the weather conditions. I am looking at loosing 4 months of of my license. I know I should have checked the local conditions on the K&A before buying the boat ( rooky error ) but the lack of any empathy or support from CRT is shocking.
Sorry to hear that Geordie. I recognise more importantly now that service is key. Empathy costs nothing. The way people address issues is free. The CRT would want to refund a license as they would need to do that for the winter mooring people. In effect that is what has happened to you. I’m heading down your way in the coming months but I have been told to leave the K&A in September or stay. Not many mooring spots so I’ll be off.
Happy belated St Valentine’s Day to you! Where to begin…. I’m afraid my thoughts won’t matter on this subject of CRT. What I will say is that IMO what is happening is what is happening to all of us at the bottom of the pyramid globally. There’s a big club and we ain’t in it! By George Carlin. I can’t speak my mind as I’m afraid it will be censored. Chris, how much more would it cost for you to live in a marina as opposed to what these increases will be? I almost feel like they know they will be squeezing many boaters off of the canals and into homelessness, like van life or living in 15 minute cities. This is happening to so many here in the US. It’s coming. This all makes me think of what has happened to the Gypsies. Their way of life has come to an end. I loved your song choice. Take care of yourself and have a great week.
Thanks Val. I agree the state of the world is changing and globalisation isn’t necessarily a good thing as the rich continue to get richer. It’s known as Pareto’s Distribution. Really interesting. To live in a marina is far more expensive and comes with benefits. Not sure it’ll happen just yet but it has crossed my mind.
Very nice view Chris, continuous cruises keep the canals clear from overgrowth. It’s like well walk path it stays clear you can see it. But if you stop using it, it will revert back to nature , they’ll just price people out of the narrowboats, with no where for them to live as the building houses that people can afford to buy or even rent , as you say there’s a few people at the top who are there for the money and power , (look at me types) It’s like that here in Manchester/Stratford where They narrowed the roads I’m putting in a cycle path and facing the road they’ve put 3 wooden sun loungers 😂😂now that’s Council leaders for you, who passed that😂 , I reckon it could be a rest station for the drivers stuck in traffic, which the counsellor pinched the roads to make you longer, so they can eventually charge for them. My rant over. Good vlog Chris hopefully you’ll have a good response to it 👍👍👍👍😂🇬🇧☘️🫵
Thanks Tom. The good ideas club come up with all sorts of stuff that I suspect at the time seems feasible. Cycle paths I’m in favour of because motorists don’t give enough room. I think most new motorists haven’t used cycles in their younger days on the road because it’s too dangerous. Too many cars. The solution, make public transport cheaper to use than cars. Commuters use the busses meaning fewer cars and the cyclists feel safer. Just one solution, but it’s all down to different pots of money and never a joined up affair. Maybe a strategist in Govt could think a bit more strategically.
So, if I 'fair weather' navigate the system but take up a CRT winter mooring for 4 months does that make me a continuous cruiser or not....? Hardly continuous if spend 4 months in one spot and paying them extra for the privilege.
Short answer. No. If you choose to winter moor that is still under a continuous cruiser license. You just pay extra for the privilege of staying put in a generally poor kept area. Sorry Mike. No good news there. Just reality.
So what will happen in year 6 and beyond? Will it continue in this way OR will it just be inflation from that point? I’ve looked at CRT and it doesn’t mention what will happen after these next 5 years. Very poor if you ask me. Just sounds like a lot and if it does continue it will be cheaper to stay in a marina unless of course they follow suit. First the price of narrowboats went up significantly, parts and labour are also more expensive and now the licence fees what next? Or am I becoming cynical 😂
Julie, you make a very good point. Up to year 5 is a plan. Beyond 5 years is a strategy. It’s poor CRT have not informed the boating community what’s beyond years 5. To go back to the standard license fee would be good. If not tell us so we can plan. I think someone who’s more in touch needs to become the CEO. Mr Parry needs to stop being a resources manager and become a peoples person. Bring the community with you.
Hi Chris, I’m not a boater but wanted to retire onto a narrowboat. However, am I understanding this correctly? If the prices increase as you say surely that’s a 75% increase by the time you get to the 5th year plus the usual increase. Day light robbery. Many people are just not going to be able to pay this. What then? They come off a boat, claim benefits and live in rented accommodation. This would cost the Government a huge amount of money, cheaper, surely, to fund CRT. In the meantime people will possibly become homeless. I hope I’ve misunderstood, if not my dream of retiring onto a Narrowboat will not materialise 😢
Spot on Julie. It works from pots of money. The CRT don’t care about the cause and effect. Central Govt won’t hold them to account nor give them extra money to avoid what you discussed. It would be cheaper to do so. As for retiring on a narrowboat and my sums, it’s still cheap to live on the canals and my boat is one of the biggest varieties. I hope I’ve got it wrong but I took the info from the CRT website. Many people believe I am wrong. I hope so too.
My attitude these days chris ...we cant change the world or how people act or even think ..i keep my standards high and live by my morals ..i like to appreciate what the beatiful things in life still have .. know the cost off living is tuff ...i try and compinsate my life style..and try not to analyse everything ..as i have discovered it drives you bonkers ..because the sad thing is most pelple dont care and only think off them selfs..which is hard to deal with ..the more people that embrace what we have ..i open my window everyday ..listen to the birds fighting and squballing😂 and think life is wonderful ..then i go out with a positive mind ..and then i pat myself on the head at the end off the day ..for beign a decent human beign ..it took alot of hurt and pain to get there but ive got there..😊 your waisting your time analysing crt .put you energy into the hear and now ..as you know we never know what life can do to trip us all up..keep up the coooking skills there great ..enjoy your day ..enjoy your life ..😊
I understand your point of view Lynn. I have spent my life prepared to die for what I believe in. I admit Blair dragged us in to a few unnecessary wars. I am not going to die taking on CRT but I will get that warm feeling inside that my fight will benefit others. Hopefully people will recognise that and be able to pay it forward in other ways.
On the CRT Licence Prices page it asks if you are CC yes/no so by mooring in a marina you are not. So I was wondering which category do those who maybe winter in a marina then cruise for a couple months in summer then moor up in a different marina come under?
Interesting point. They would have to prove they have come from a marina and going to another one with a continual contract. Then they could cruise about as long as they required. Break in the contract and I would suggest CRT would put them on a CC license. Good question Gary. Not sure my answer is 100% correct but 80% is good enough.
Great insight on canal life politics . One of the reasons I want to live on a boat is for the simple life - do you find the problems you encounter , witness spoils that simple life much ?
If you just lead a simple life and accept everything thrown at you, the Instagram lifestyle is there. It doesn’t spoil the life but I believe in holding organisations to account where I feel there’s hidden agenda and mismanagement. If the CRT were more transparent I think the boating community would be more on-side. Hide the detail and mistrust comes in. Just my thoughts, except it’s not!!!!
Do marinas come under the CRBT? If so why doesn’t the same costs apply. I understand boats moored in marinas or by the side of the canal can cruise the canals for short periods
I’m of the understanding the Marinas pay quite a bit to CRT as the marina is using the CRT water. You mention about marina boats. Most of them stay in the marina and venture out for weekends occasionally. Some use them more but i suppose, It’s about policing. The answer is already in what they’re doing. The licence checkers take the numbers of the boats they see on the water. If they did their job, the CRT would have a record and charge according to days out. Unpopular but so is the CC licence. Thanks for the comments Bob.
There's a basin w/ end to it, boat time went & couldn't get through the reeds & algae green covering all water! I think crt took on this whole picture, not prepared @ all.
I think it’s all about priorities. The boating community is not a priority. I’m going to put pen to paper, as such and I have a plan Tina. Thanks for your support.
Well said Chris the CRT have now set different types of boater against each other, divide and conquer. There will be no improvements its just funds for the balance sheet. Ive terminated my 6 yr old CRT licence and switched to the cheaper EA licence coz I dont leave The Thames , many others I know have done the same . Yes the EA fees may go up but not with the crazy CRT style surcharges. I think they want far less boats outside of marinas so this is how they will start.
There are work around and I think the EA license could be a winner if you are going to use those waters like the Thames etc. I believe CRT are guilty of poor media comms. There are so many ideas I would have to tell a different story and engage with the segment that pays the most. Thanks for the comment.
Hi Chris, I reckon 5% increase of your numbers was a bit off... starting with 1349, a 5% increase is 1417 in year one, then 1563, 1641, 1723 and 1809. Interesting discussion there. Dont think you can avoid being political there.
Hi Rob and Harry. It does appear not too many people recognise the license will go up by 5% each year for the next 5 years and the inflationary costs too. The sums may be wrong and I accept that but the principle is correct…..I think. I’ll link it in the next vlog as I’ll have to mention this topic again.
Hi mate so far you are correct with everything you have said.about the c r t. Unfortunately when it comes to licence fees they have boaters by the short and curly .. if you don't pay your boat is gone as a few people have found out.. For years boaters have been asking for bin areas to be locked as the public see the bins as published skips.. You mentioned about the c t t painting themselves as open to scrutiny .!!!!!!!! Sorry but I have not stopped laughing yet.???? Have you ever tried to make a complaint about something that concerns the running of the c .r.t..you will find it almost impossible to get even a reply from them .. Why they have not introduced a system where boaters with building skills are not offered a reduction in the fees if they carry out work on the canals .for a couple of hours a month is beyond me.. since I left the canals I bought a small boat which I keep at the local boat club. The people who have boats there carry out repairs in return for a reduction in yearly fees.which benefits them and the club as there is no need for outside contractors. But like a lot of people who run corporation's common sense is a thing that is beyond them. You mentioned about how much a contractor charges.. most of them work on a fixed price set by the c.r.t.. You should be able to get a copy of fixed prices from the c r t.. anyway mate keep safe and well. And keep putting out your interesting and informative videos.👍👍👍...
Agreed with the skills effect but last week I got into a bit of a tit for tat with someone over H&S. It needs dynamic managers and leaders who have a different mindset and can think outside the normal working practices. I agree a boater could take charge of an area and keep it clean, tidy and cut back. Wouldn’t take much. However, common sense is disappearing and so are the risk takers in management. Thanks for the comment Wayne.
I’m glad I sold my boat. It was getting very expensive, especially when the canal companies don’t maintain them to a useable standard. No names mentioned….
Couldn't agree more. CRT are a bit poor at maintenance to allow navigation to happen. The off tow path has about 10+ years of growth which is when CRT took over. Clearly there was an intent to not bother looking after the waterways. Just my thoughts....
Looking at this from someone not living on the waterways yet, I think in the big scheme of things, central government won’t and shouldn’t spend funds on the canal network when the health and social care system is in such a mess and crucially needs more funding. I think it’s wonderful that there are so many volunteers helping to maintain the canals, maybe some of the continuous cruisers could also help out if they have time? And maybe CRT could reward them with reduced fees or increase length of stay etc. Money spent on ‘hotels’ for refugees and those in real need is a drop in the ocean compared to the expenses MP’s etc fiddle each year, so not a valid argument in my opinion. I know you encourage debate, so thought I would put some of my opinions on some of the subjects you covered in your vlog
I understand your point of view Michele. Yes the health care needs more funds and it needs to be managed better. The military needs more funding. The roads ought to have fewer potholes and the farmers need better support. The Govt is failing us and I agree with the MPs excessive claims and allowances package. I just want the execs of CRT to be clearer and transparent. I do think the Govt spend too much on refugees because most aren’t. But it’s ok to disagree. Thanks for the comment.
Hi Chris. It seems that your logic for calculating the increases was a little askew. From your base of £1349 your subsequent years should have been £1446, £1518, £1593, £1673.
Thanks for the sums Nigel. I take it that is a 5% increase per year. The website suggests it raises by 5% each year up to 25% in year 5 so despite the math being a bit off, the concept is daunting for those who are struggling now.
Hmmm... I think they mean 5% per year for 4 years. I'm not in the UK so I don't have a pound sign on my keyboard so I'll just use the numbers. 1349.83 + 5% 67.49 = 1417.32. 1417.32 + 5% 70.86 = 1488.18. 1488.18 + 5% 74.40 = 1562.58. 1562.58 + 5% 78.12 = 1640.70.
A little late watching this week, i guess the licence fee is the equivalent of a house owners council tax, which also rises at approximately 5% per year. Boaters if needed can use all the facilities a council tax payer can use. Hospitals, school, emergency services, even roads for the ones that have cars too. There's no getting away from paying. The CRT are as useless in spending the money as local councils and i don't think that will ever change.
I get the point you make Ann and if I was living on land the the council were crap I’ll be having a pop at them too. But the councils have far more issues to deal with so the task is a little more complex.
Indeed. That would be down to whether the KPIs are meet in the first place. I does appear reading some literature, it’s not a lot to do with boating or people.
The main reason why I dismissed that life is because of space and the perceived difficulty parking up. Todays life is a king it more difficult I am told. Also through life costs I worked out to be quite expensive but then my math is crap.
The CRT managers are like the management of every marina we ever stayed in. They like boats and they love the money that comes with boats but they hate boaters. Boaters have needs and demand things and expect value for money. With out boaters their job would be easy. In their eyes the worst sort of boater is the full time liveaboard because they are always there to notice when they are doing a bad job and point it out to them.
The survey was a legal requirement. Please don't think that anything that was submitted on the survey had any relevance to the outcome. That was predetermined by the CRT.
Are the results of the questions asked in the public domain? The Military have a Continuous Attitude Survey and everything is published. It certainly highlights the short comings. Is it taken notice of….discuss. But there is a lack of people joining up. That’s a more complex issue.
@@chrismears-inslowtime Military is so different to the world of charities Chris. The Military are known for adapting and improving upon every aspect whoever possible, or at least that's their goal. For charities, they needed to increase their funding via a path, to tick all of those boxes, they were obliged to have documented opinions from members. They ticked those boxes with the surveys. And then they were allowed to increase the funding path. Job done.
Is the increase not compounded 5% each year so 5% on the last year total each year. No matter it is an increase without any addd value. The decline of the canals and the CRT delivery should be scrutinised as you have. People power to get the CRT to listen!!!!
There are many who have commented that it’s not compound but a 5% rise year on year. However the website doesn’t make that clear which is where I got my info from. I hope I’m wrong. Without being held to account, any organisation becomes complacent. I think the CRT have fallen in that category. I’ve always had a pop at those who use their position and power poorly. I just don’t like bullies and they are a form of it I think.
I wonder how a wide beam uses more of the CRT facilities to warrant their additional costs? Of course, what it does do is to divide the community and set one group of boaters against another. Well played CRT! Of course, spending vast sums on towpaths looks great and is fantastic for walkers and cyclists it doesn't help with recycling, waste or pump out/elsan points. What a sad state of affairs.
I don't think the crt realises when the boats stop moving the visitors will stop coming an this will happen sooner than later the way the network is serviced in every aspect
It is about the boats on those areas of locks. Always a crowd at Stoke Bruerne and Foxton Locks. I’m soon to pass through Napton locks. I thinks there will be a few peps watching there. Thanks for the comment Steve.
Those that run the canals in Scotland also do not want boaters, if you want to move anywhere you have to phone them and ask what time they can work the locks (boaters are not allowed to work the locks) and do not expect them to do so after 5pm or at the weekend the Forth & Clyde canal is so shallow now due to them lowering the water level to protect the banks, Yachts can no longer passage through the canals.
That is one solution that could have happened here Harry and used to happen. They were called lock keepers. Came with a house too. Sometimes progress on one hand means rising costs on another and businesses don’t want rising costs. It means their strategy failed. It means they’re decision making is poor which reflects on their management. Discuss. Not to work on a weekend is poor at best. Thanks for the comment Harry.
Hi Chris, I'm now retired and basically had a number of dead end jobs. My experience in each was that management's view of their staff was " do what I say, or go somewhere else". It would appear from your excellent vlog, nothing has changed. Those in positions of authority are really only interested in themselves and how they can improve their lot. I'm sorry to tell you, but Mr CEO won't talk to you coz you talk sense, and he can't contradict you.
Thanks Daniel. I agree with management in business from what I’ve heard. I wonder how many business have management programs. I wonder how many the CEO has been on. I was able to attend an 8 week management course for Officers as I wasn’t one. It was basically a load of old crap and I told them. I learnt a lot from it but little to do with management or leadership. It was very academic which I was able to stretch my mind from. The application of dealing with people means you need empathy. Not sure there is much of that from the decision makers of the canals.
‘Life’s better by the water’ they say,….. Well it may be for some but having experienced the CRT first hand I can tell you that the way they conduct themselves at times is shameful….
That phrase is not measurable so as far as CRT are concerned, they are. It’s an intent or a vision statement. But they don’t have a mission statement nor vision statement. Just a buzzword. Thanks for the comment Richard.
I couldn't agree with you more Chris. It is completely wrong that boaters, especially CC are treated the way they are. The CRT needs a major overhaul from the top down. They need to be more accountable and should treat boaters more as shareholders and so take account of their needs and views. If CRT concentrated on getting the basics right the rest would fall into place relatively easy. CRT should make sure they are keeping the core users of the canal network, the boaters (the main financial contributors) happy. Losing boaters in the years to come will mean even less money coming in which will have an even greater detrimental effect. It's a downward spiral from then on until the CRT can no longer be viable, the canal network falls into complete disrepair and the country loses a beautiful part of its history...........and the CRT bigwigs lose their plush salaries.
Agreed but their argument would be the fewer the boats the less business as usual costs. Get the basics right and the rest will fall into place as the boating community would look after stuff better. The culture of caring less comes from Mr Parry. It’s the culture he has created but not held to account for. The only way to change that is to change the top and create a more caring culture. It works. I did my dissertation for the MBA on the effects of culture in the workplace.
Hi. I think your maths are wrong Chris as I believe it is 5% each year on current rate thats year, not plus 5% each year compounded, as in, it isn't going up 10% on next years figure etc, it is going up 5% each year on the current rate of that year, if that makes sense
I hope you’re right. I did get the info from the CRT website so that maybe a little unclear or maybe I’m just not very good with maths and problem solving. Thanks for the comment
There was a consultation period about making the cut more electric friendly for that style of boat. It didn’t last for more than a few hours before they realised it was too difficult and would be a waste of money. What I found strange, is they could use a bit of common and basic analysis to work that out for themselves!
CRT concentrate on just generating money for there top brass wages . No help for boaters because of removal of services . Also there are lots of places which need dredging especially round hemel hempstead miles of beautiful places moore but no chance of getting to the bank. And as for the repairs when lock gates are fitted , how about 3 locks Soulbury just had new gates fitted and they leak just as bad as before . Its a joke
I agree with the Hemel areas. Particularly those pounds between boxmoor and the marina. There is really no excuse. I wonder if the lack of workforce and a management chain that appear not to listen, the area manager walks the towpath to talk to the boating community and send feedback. Don’t answer as I reckon I’ve worked it out.
I wonder if they even care. Who is the media person scouring for content for disrupters like I’m going to become. I’m going to be the Warrant Officer I was. I wanted to have an easy life…..Thanks for the comment.
Chris - if they are increasing by 5% each year the next year's rate will be 105% of the current year.. Year Rate 2023 1349.83 2024 1417.32 2025 1488.19 2026 1562.60 2027 1640.73 2028 1722.76
I hope youre right Graham. The info I got from the website and I hope it was just poorly written. But, what I stated was standard licence fee plus the increase which went from 5%-25%. Your sums are a lot more palatable.
No issue obviously it compounds the total cost you had worked out. I agree with you though its about what do you get for the cost and it seems like potentially not a great deal
For a survey to not publish results by significant category is seriously lacking transparency. Poor show CRT. To understand that the CRT wishes to move the needle by 2 points in a year is really poor. 54% to 56... Would you be happy with half a meal, a test score of 56? A marriage where 1 person is so unhappy? 56% is abject failure.. Fess up CRT...where is the money going? Where is the service...rant... John
Good rant John. I agree with the 50% margins of success. It’s not acceptable. And what makes it pathetic, the execs clearly think a 2% increase is for the boating satisfaction survey. So what happens if they fail? Who gets sacked?
Freedom of speech in the UK? Rant if you want. LOL Seems to me if the costs are going up, so should the repairs. There are many locks that need repaired. Pounds that need filled more often. Just saying. I follow more than one narrow boat Vlog. PS: I stayed for the whole thing, good rant.
That’s what I was told at school. I get the concept and to be honest I’m probably going to get a lot of “See Me” comments. However it’s the bit afterwards for me that counts. Whatever we have to pay extra, if the return is less for more money, that doesn’t feel right. The boaters don’t want much. Thanks for the comment.
Chris, That's just the base for your license, ontop of that you have a surcharge for being a continuous cruiser which goes up year by year. Within three years you will be paying double for your license. The whole point about this is they can't charge extra for being a continuous cruiser when you already pay for a continuous cruiser license? They force you to continuous cruise every two weeks then they say we're charging you for doing it! Its a boaters choice to have a mooring they never reduced the license for boats with moorings. Services have been closed instead of repairing, As i've stated in the past they have had years to get ready for the loss of government funding and sat on thier arses. now they want boaters to lobby thier Mp's to keep the funding! Do you think for one moment they will reduce the License if they keep the funding?? CRT have done a piss poor job and government need to look into it. This is our heritage they are messing with. They have always wanted boats off the canals and in marinas, boaters have known that for years. Where I am moored the bank was collapsing, instead of fixing it they moved the boats, that was three years ago, they waste so much money it's rediculous. They got rid of thier workforce in favour of sub contractors which now costs more than the workforce did. That's like the culture of all town coucils sub contract everything.
I get it Flash. You are as frustrated as I am but I don’t think I have your experience. There is a lack of consultation with the boasting community. I think we should vote for the CEO like the PM. Put your manifesto to the audience which is costed and you have 5 years to make it happen. Justify the reasons why you’ve failed to produce and if we think it’s justified, you get another 5 years with an amended manifesto which is reviewed in 3 years on the naughty step. If progress is made, continue, if not…… Lost the experience with the workforce. Criminal…
How would you propose this £1 per walk being collected with literally millions of access points to towpaths. Would you then expect hill walkers and ramblers to pay for access to the countryside? 🤣🤣
Hi Robert. I am lead to believe the upgrade of the towpaths are not paid for by CRT. They don’t make that clear but again it would be useful for CRT to be more transparent and that is a perception. I would direct the media exec to do a better job at what CRT are responsible for and where the monies come from. I’m sure it;s on the website, but I think CRT’s media ops is poor at best.
It would appear, as an onlooker, that CRT want is for CC to pay more but without actually using the canals or any facilities. Given this would be the easiest for them I can understand why, but the reality is that no one, in any area of life, would expect to pay significantly more over a period of time but receive less or nothing in return. The sad reality is that if CCing is made too difficult through lack of facilities, lack of canal maintenance and lack of forward planning it will lead people being forced into either moving to marinas or off the water, which will in turn reduce the number paying the higher licence fees…which defeats the purpose! Definitely something CRT need to consider going forward.
Thanks for your insights Chris. Have a great week…and a belated happy valentines to you too!
Thank you as always for your comments and support. I agree and i suspect the ultimate aim is to reduce the numbers of boats using the canals as it would again make life easier because of less use. I believe that strategy will never be discussed outside the confines of the exec meetings. I think if CRT engaged with the boating community more, that would be a start. We live in hope. Thanks Mishka.
Absolutely so true. Glad someone had the balls to tell it as it is!! 😊
Thank you. And I’ve just started.
Hi Chris, Very interesting vlog. Unfortunately you have demonstrated why it will be difficult for you to get any power with CRT.
Asking for openness and transparency and honesty, most organisations just don’t want this.
I wish you good luck with your quest.
Look forward to the next episode.
Look after yourself
Thanks Andy. It is the key to success when you’re dealing with people. I think the exec level management fail to recognise the benefits of bringing the community with them. I have a plan……
Hi Chris. Although I am not a boater, I do use the local network for walking and enjoy the tranquility of the overall ambience. Having said that I sometimes tend to open my mouth before engaging my brain which has landed me in a couple of tight spots over the years, and I applaud your calm approach to these quite high financial increases. How much does Mr CRT CEO get paid, how many middle managers are there, what strategy do they have to remove the many sunken or clearly abandoned boats which litter the waterways. Dredging must be a priority as the number of YT boaters who complain about getting stuck is plentiful. No, not CRT bashing, just looking for some simple scrutiny 😊. Take care and looking forward to seeing more from you in the future.
Absolutely agree and I too have got myself in hot water for telling the truth. I worked on a project in my last two years of service life and got sacked within three days as I told the project leader if I produced that amount of work in 18 months, I’d have been told I was failing yet you appear to think you’re working hard. Not a team player I was told and RTU’d. I’m going to have my say in an effort to assist CRT think differently. It’s important as I think there are some quick and easy wins if only they……get the boater on-side.
Hi Chris,
I’m a CC widebeamer. And I enjoy many aspects of the CC life. I’ve had adjustments made to my license on account of my daughter’s diagnosis. Which the CRT were very helpful with and it means I don’t have to move the boat as far or as often. My other contacts with the CRT have been helpful and understanding. And I see CRT and volunteers doing what they can to make it a better place for boaters, members of the public and the local wildlife and environment.
I also received the survey from the CRT and felt exactly the same way about the questions feeling very lead by those that conducted the survey to achieve the outcome they wanted to achieve. So I didn’t fill it in and return it because it felt like I was signing up to something that I wasn’t necessarily agreeing with. And my voice was being heard. Plus I felt there are so many variations to boaters wants and need that it’s impossible to take into account what everyone wants or needs.
And seeing your year on year license fee increases was although affordable for me. It does leave a lot of boaters struggling to see where they are going to find this extra money from. In what is already a difficult time for affordability of anything and a lot of people going without. Myself included.
I personally don’t think CCs should be the only boaters being given a license increase. Permanent moorings should be charged less of a increase, but CCs shouldn’t be the only ones getting to pay extra.
I spend a lot of time on the Lea and I’m fortunate that I have a car, so disposing of rubbish and doing my recycling although a bit of a challenge. Most facilities like water, bins, elsan etc. are available to me. But I do ask anyone I meet if they could make a comparison between Waterways and CRT and they all say things just worked and the general upkeep was better. Now the CRT use volunteers from assisting on locks to cutting back vegetation and CRT workers of course, but a lot of boaters goodwill and sense of doing what’s right keeps things, for the most part ticking along.
I too believe that if CCs are using the network the most then we should be paying more than anyone in a permanent mooring. If like I’ve seen on occasion those on permanent moorings go further afield for a little trip or whatever should also expect a little increase in fee.
I’ve only ever stayed in one city and it was London. And I found facilities need to be increased and maintained. The lose of any facility in London will have big implications for those needed them. So I can understand peoples concerns.
Sadly large built up areas like London and others of course do mean that members of the public and boaters I presume will vandalise or leave the facilities in a terrible state and how many times should the CRT be required to sort this out. Somebody told me a CRT toilet had been left with human mess all over the place.
But like you say, what will these fee increases mean for us. Do we get more working facilities, better upkeep etc. etc. or just more of the same because all the increases are doing is filling a huge and increasing deficit because of the reduction in funding from the government. So basically more money, nothing back. Which seems the way for just about everything right now.
Agree with all you said. There was only so much I wanted to say in the vid and edited out much of your comment as it happens. I do know that when people ask for leniency they are good with that. Also, I believe a lot of it is who you talk to as I’ve heard of some other stories. Thanks for the comment and support.
I felt the same way about the survey ..
I think around question 4 I gave my answer , then question 5 forced me to contradict my answer and vote in favour of their proposals so I exited ! ..
I watched a vlog by the BBC recently and according to them , the trust have government funding until 2037 of 50 million pounds a year !
YOu have to remember Chris that if you have your boat in a marina that is located on CRT waters ways you pay the license, as well as your private marina fees. It cost me about £4500 per year to moor my boat wether I use it or not. So you as a CC get it fairly cheep. What do I get from my marina? Bins, shower block and pay as you use laundry and very expensive electricity (6% service charge), which I don't use when I'm on the canals. If you live aboard in marina's, you pay extra because of council tax.
Broadly I agree with you on what the CRT could do for boaters.
There are other hidden benefits though Shaun. While I agree with you, you’re paying for stability, parking your car, security, easy access to water, bins, Elsan,possibly pump out and hook up, deliveries from amazon a post code to register for doctors and dentists. Don’t get me wrong, living in a marina isn’t cheap for what you get. I also think canal life is cheap and the good days have gone. I just want CRT to be more transparent and accountable.
Hi Chris, I know it’s not the main point being made but the way that I understand the increase(s) is +5/5/5/5/5% per year, not 5/10/15/20/25%, if I’m right then the end result is £1723 in 2028.
Thanks for that. I took the info from the website and if it’s wrong, the website didn’t make it clear. You’re right, it wasn’t the main point, just a lead in.
Love as ever brother, a lot needs saying, you’re touching on it and that’s good. Your heart is in the right place, never compromise…. Honesty without fear my friend.
Thanks for the supportive comment. I appreciate it.
@@chrismears-inslowtime it’s a pleasure mate, you joined the canal at a similar time to us, slightly different journey of course, as with all our stories, been good sharing some of yours. Thank you. If you’re ever up Peak/Macc, be good to say hi 🤗
Would be interesting to see a spreadsheet of incoming and outgoing figures to see where the money goes
I believe the accounts are in the public domain but ‘big hands’. Devils in the detail. That is not as easy to find. Need an accountant to look I suspect.
Hi Chris not a boater (yet) but my son is with his girlfriend. (Pillings Lock Marina)
I absolutely love love love your videos brother and this one hits a lot of nails very firmly on the head.
I actually started watching your “boat build” ones and subscribed then but for some reason the algorithm has thrown this one in and I’m really glad it did albeit a few months late!
I firmly believe the CC’s need representatives on these forums and frankly I can’t think of anyone better than yourself. I’ve heard lots of stories from people at my son’s marina criticising CRT still and the consensus (even from them) is very definitely “not value for money”. CC ers are getting shafted.
All the best to you though buddy. Keep your weapon clean and pointing down range.😉
Great episode be controversial and stimulate discussion 👌
Thank you. I do need the support of the boating community to make it all happen.
Oh, BIG THANKS to Tony, yet another great fella, thanks for helping me through the locks
Best Regards Colin
Well said Chris, I think a lot of boaters are getting disillusioned with c r t paying more and getting less for our money, I've been boating fifty years now saw great improvements on the canals for years but since crt took over things have gone into decline to the point where I'm thinking of selling up😢
Points you’ve just made Alan, CRT should read. If I was the CEO I would want to take a looming hard look on how I was performing. I suspect, he doesn’t care and is not a peoples person because if he was, he would have created a different culture to the resourses based culture he has created. Truth is in the output. Words hide our lies. Someone said that in the vid…..
lovely to see Colin on the vlog, met him at North kilworth, a top top fella and a lovely boat!
Hey Paul, thank you fella. You were a very nice first boating neighbour.
How are things going.
Living without that electricity line is very different. 😀🤔 keeps you.on your toes.
Take care, Colin.
Thanks Paul.
@colincox1whichnet going well, 5 more days untill we move onto the cut😀
CRT reminds me of the local council workers,you never see them when work has to be done
Yep. Although lots of work this time of year by many third party contractors. I wonder what the costs of that is now as opposed to when British Waterways were managing it. Pay and pensions are a big capital resource.
Hi Chris, wow this is some increase. I can’t help feel for those boaters that live on a boat and just about makes ends meet now, this is such an increase for them to find 😮xx
Chris, we'll where do I start. At the beginning............... a HUGE thank you for your support, your patience, your kindness, your friendship, and your knowledge of living on the canals. Happy valentines day..
We bashed through the locks, and we needed to, get it, and I had to go through the two long tunnels to get to Braunston. For those who have gone through tunnels such as those (both about a mile long) know that nothing much can be done to prepare the novice other than take is steady, whilst getting a move on because the longer you are in there the bigger the chance of meeting a boat coming the other way! Hey all went well. Thank you for a great video, and for my first couple of weeks on the cut, without that umbilical cord plugged into a marina's electricity supply, mmmmm it's very different !
Great video, great points and great to be able to discuss them with you.
And it was great to have you aboad are the Watford locks. I am looking forward to you taking helm some more and feeling the difference on a more traditional style of boat with the Big ole Gardner 3LW motor.
Enough said about CRT. You got it spot on..hopefully someone in CRT might venture out and get in contact with you, hey wouldn't that be something?
Maybe they could have an area on the CRT website for boaters community, and landlubbers community to provide their thoughts.
Take care, Colin. Looking forward next vlog and our onward journey.
Always a pleasure Colin. We'll be learning from each other I'm sure. As for the CRT, I'm writing to them so we'll see if that has an effect.
One point that is again being missed is the fee marina moorers indirectly pay to the CRT on top of their boat licence fee. This is 9% of the mooring fee the marina passes on to CRT. In my case, this amounts to £334 on top of my CRT licence fee of £1195, which is close to the extra that CCs are being asked to pay. It’s also worth remembering that, despite being a major user, boaters' receipts only amount to about 10% of CRT income. Having said that I do agree that the CRT do seem to have a bloated management structure typical of most charity organisations.
I do realise the marina boats pay for the use of the marina as you float on CRT water. I suspect the cost of that water accelerates or declines with the marina facilities and location. I’m not complaining about the costs just what added value do we get. Also, you too, when you want to use the canals. To take away facilities without doing something that suggests they will have a consultation of relocation the waste facilities. Or Life Better By Water may not be a good strap line as it’ll be littered with bin bags.
Spot on chris, well said!🙏
Definitely SPOT on 😅
Thanks Martin and Steve.
Hi, Chris. I am still watching, but I haven’t had anything to say. I wish you luck with the CRT, but unfortunately, I have no suggestions for you. I’ve learned that when I’m ignorant about a subject, it’s best that I shut the hell up, rather than put my ignorance on display. Besides your grief about fees, I hope that the gods of fate are being kind to you. Already looking forward to your next vlog.
Like me Tom. I keep quiet unless I have a dog in the fight as it were. Thanks for watching and your support.
Always interesting, often fascinating...and this is one of those vlogs.
You make excellent points Chris - you'd be an excellent addition to the CRT team - if only turkeys voted for Christmas.
Thanks for the comment and support. My plan is to help CRT but they do need to gain a bit of HUMINT. Human intelligence. You can only make the best decisions when you understand what it’s like to live the canal life. Can’t do it from an office.
I think you’re right. cosy life at the top of CRT, it’s too cosy. I think every top earner and CRT to get off their backsides and go out on the canals from month to see what the problem is. you can’t sit on your butt in an office to know what’s going on I’ve been at A boater for 20 years. and you can definitely see the change in the canals in that time.Great vlog 👍👍
My thoughts exactly. Live the life of those you control and your decisions will be based on empathy and knowledge instead of assumption. Thanks Alan.
Hi Chris I owned a boat for a little over 3 years, and I was appalled to see the number of boats not displaying a CRT licence, it was very noticeable on the K&A. I realise it is difficult for the CRT to police this, but they are losing a lot of revenue that boaters like you are having to compensate this shortfall. It must amount to millions!
Good point but CRT don't use the boat name or licence, they only use the boat's number to check who is paid up.
Agree with reply. I don’t show my license to be honest as there is no requirement for it. Also, I live on a boat and don’t have the ability to print it out. The downside of everything being on-line to reduce cost. I’ve spoken to the mooring checkers who take the info, numbers and names are used as some don’t have a number displayed. Some don’t have either. Not sure what happens then.
Great vlog Chris. As always your deep thoughts say it all for majority of boaters I can imagine. Seems CRTs priorities need readdressing to be honest. Do wonder why they don’t go back into canal sponsorship where a company in or near the canal can sponsor it for subtle ads by paying for the upkeep of said canal. Could imagine a good income could be bought into the system. Would love you to interview some of the chiefs there. Best wishes Chris.
Chris, from where I sit, which is a long way from you geographically speaking, you make sense to me. Regrettably, I think applying logic to the situation might be wasted. The way I see it they (CRT) want boats decorating the canals but not using them or have I misunderstood the situation?
I agree. Your assessment will make their life simple. Except their rules, we (towpath livers) have to continually move. In fact if no one used the water, even easier! Thanks for the comment
I watch your channel regularly along with a few others and find them interesting. In the latest episode you referred to your licence fees and I thought they were fair enough if the facilities ( water rubish etc) were improved along with weed control and many of the obviously sunken abandoned vessels removed. You just seem to be paying more for less. Good luck.
Thanks Derek. I would be content if they just kept the status quo for a while and improved the canals by a continuous improvement program of dredging and foliage cutting. They do have a program but I don’t think they do enough as they don’t have the manpower nor the equipment. They let it all go. Along with the experience.
Well done bud,,,
Ur words and points are absolutely spot on !!!!
If the costs are going up they have to spend it on the water ways !! And obviously they are not at the moment!
I live by the K&A and I gotta say it’s a bit of a state,,. It needs chopping back, trees are overgrown,,, damaging passing boats,,, oh I can go on and on but I won’t,,
As I watched this vlog I thinking of something similar,,,
We just put my father in a property, paid an awful lot of money for it as u guys do within ur boat/home and we pay a monthly service charge to maintain the grounds and provide recycling and rubbish collection, now if I’m paying that on behalf of him within the agreement and am not receiving that my thoughts are I’m being conned!!!
So back to the CRT if I’m paying this tax/charge for living upon the canal I would most definitely expect u to put that money towards the up keep upon the canals to allow me to live upon it !
They Need a right kick up the arse !
Put the money towards up keep and provide a service!
Enough said
Well done Chris, love ya vlogs, look forward to the next
💪👍
Hi Rich. It’s a bit of a shame when you have to pay maintenance on the grounds of a property and the work is either not done or poor. Holding to account is an uncomfortable thing to do as in today’s world, you’re never too sure what the consequences will be?
As for CRT, I have a plan to hold to account. It’ll be briefed on a forthcoming vlog. Clearly need to keep my powder dry for a while. Thanks for the support.
Hi Chris,
You have brought forward many good points while staying fairly neutral with your opinions. One of my favorite sayings is "If you are not part of the solution you are part of the problem". I do not know how the CRT board is set up though it sounds as if there is not enough representation from the different facets of the boating community. I believe you had once mentioned that you attempted to get onto the board but your application was rejected. Chris you have a lot of common sense which is needed by the CRT, do keep trying to get onto their board if that is something that you would like to do.
Hope to hear one day that you are on the board,
Mark
Alberta, Canada
Thank you Mark. The CRT needed 4 members on their council and I came 5th. Not bad but, I think I can gain more traction creating a bit of influence where I’m not aligned to keeping on side with things I disagree with. I am free to shoot from the hip a bit more. Thanks for the support.
Nice 1 Chris…Have a good rest of the week mate…
Thanks Tony.
Colin making a cup of tea! I thought he was an American? 😉 Or maybe he is a returning expat?
I agree with most of the things you say about the CRT Chris, but don't let the subject lower your moral.
Great vlog, thanks for sharing
Thanks Gordon. I learnt in the mob, it was useful to have a moan and I used to like it when the lads did. I knew what was wrong. The problem was when they stopped moaning. However, I think CRT ought to listen and try to bring the boaters more on-side. Colin is a returning Ex-pat.
@@chrismears-inslowtime I was also in the mob the RN so I know where you're coming from and completely understand including a year in the Display Team, performing at the Royal tournament plus touring, that kind of thing, I was always impressed by the The Queens Colour SQ's drills. I hope to meet you as pass along the K&A one day and share some woffle
It’s a good point that you made about the greater use of steel lock gates. I guess that some locks are listed structures so have to remain with wood gates but others could be changed as apparently the metal gates last for 50 years. I doubt that they cost more to make but is there the expertise to make them as I imagine the angle and balance will be different.
I reckon there are a few boat builders that could know up some balance beams to help cash flow issues many are facing currently. I just don’t think CRT are forward thinking enough. Innovation in the mind is required. I’m sure there are drawing of each lock somewhere and the balance will be created by ballast in the beams which surely must be easier to adjust with steel than wood….of the top of my head. Probably not that easy though.
Hi Chris
I'm in a rush and not had a chance to check your maths.
Have you allowed for "compound" interest? As the rate goes up then will CRT charge 5% of the new rate for the following year etc.
i.e your future 5 year rate will not be 25% more than you are paying now, it will be more.
Just a thought
Mel
I was never good at sums. The numbers may be wrong but the principle is correct. The thoughts In my opinion aren’t far off the mark either. Basic analysis. Thanks Mel.
Interesting thoughts. Hope you find someone to listen and discuss. I hope you have a great week! - Jane
Thanks Jane.
A thought inspiring vlog. CRT have a captive audience therefore they don't need to listen or act on your concerns. An unhappy work force would be worrying to me, bad management is toxic in any organisation.
As you said snouts trough, gravy train and not rocking the boat, spring to mind.
Anyway have a good week, black bit down, shiny bit up.
Hi Chris, all excellent points as usual. We used to moor in Braunston, and agree internet is very patchy. I had to switch to an EE sim to get any joy. Just popped you an email with some further points. Chat soon, Felix
Thanks Felix. Looking forward to meeting you both tonight.
Internet at Braunston is non-existent!
Hi Chris, great vlog I’m fortunate on not to be still working and live in a marina on a mini wide beam, I agree that license fee needs to increase but when we go out cruising CRT just look like deliberate neglect, maybe I’m wrong but the CRT aren’t changing my mind. Thanks for bringing this important subject up 👍
Thanks for the support Mike.
I note that there are certain stretches of canal that are prone to vandalism, dumping and so forth. These zones are likely to require more money per lock and mile of canal to repair and maintain that other areas (not taking into consideration other factors like ground issues, topography, age etc.) The councils of the problem areas such as Burnley and Blackburn should come up with some money to help with the repairs and clean up work their residents are causing. These places are all keen to claim the canals are recreational spots for their residents instead of having to find alternative parkland. Just clearing all the junk dumped into canals already means a number of teams of workers, boats, tools and then road vehicles to cart stuff to the dump (and maybe fees imposed by the councils to use the dumps despite the rubbish being their responsibility in the first place).
You are right about the volunteer lockies - a vast resources that upper management probably look down on. Apart from the volunteer lockies I do wonder whether there would be any way of including boaters in schemes to help keep certain stretches clear - such as ones prone to penny wort. Miss a tiny bit and it grows back like Quatermass. Perhaps some continuous cruisers who at times are only moving to abide by the rules would like to stay put a bit longer and in return help get the last bits of such invasive plants out of the water. There must be other ways to gainfully utilise resources that are available for tasks not being done due to costs etc.
Lock balance bars. I note there are some (not all by a long way) locks that have preservation orders. No reason why others shouldn't be made in a more economical manner though, I I fully agree there, though I would like to know how much maintenance steel one require to keep rust away. This is for 2 reason; life of the lock gate and peoples clothes as they operate the gates with bum against the bar. It isn't like they are a standard design.
In para two you discuss if boater could help. I agree and the payback could be reduced license fees as they are rising. I don’t believe we should get things for free and the cheap lifestyle has gone. That boat has sailed. The problem with continuously cruising is just that. Those who CC but in the same stretch could add value under negotiation with CRT. It just needs to be thought out but it’s not difficult. It just requires a bit of time and better communication.
Those steel/metal balance beams I’ve pushed appear to not be an issue and certainly are cleaner than the old wooden ones full of dirt and moss. Thanks for the comment.
Chris great vlog we are not canal boaters but had a boat many years ago on the Thames,we follow lots of canal boaters vlogs we really enjoy them,I hope crt do improve on facilities for you all,all too often we hear them saying about unable to get rid of rubbish or water taps not working surely these are basic requirements needed for you,lots of things could improve on without spending much money,they keep working on opening up new canals how about doing bit of much needed maintenance to the ones that are in use🤞🤞👍
Totally agree Jean. Any organisation should be held to account. The problem with the boating community, it moves on and people aren’t in a position to create alliances and cohesion. I want to assist where I can in the holding to account bit.
Hey Chris, I spoke to the CRT yesterday about the fees because I just could not calculate them due to me not understanding their wording. They confirmed that it’s 25% in total by 2028, so 5% year on year rather than 5% then adding 10%. I totally understand your main/ key message though which makes the sums kind of not the point. All the best! Claire x
That’s a relief. Thanks Claire.
Hi Chris has anyone looked where the boundaries are i.e title land abutting the canal. We accept the tow path is included the boundary line o,n the other bank where is the title line the canal edge or middle of the canal. This raises the question should the land holders be accountable. I know its a can of worms if the trees and bushes are on your land then its up to you to fix. what about the bank on your side if CRC dont own it it bears another question as to repairs
I have sought out the same point. Apparently CRT are accountable for 1 meter of the off side canal bank. Only recently found that out Peter. Therefore it falls into the too difficult bracket as CRT have largely sold off all their plant assets so rely on contractors to do that. They do have enough plant to do that work on a rolling program. It would need about 4 people who live on boats who could move their boats as they work. It just needs an operational mindset and not an office based one.
Some good and valid points Chris. I do think that CRT view boaters as a captive audience and therefore don’t require any extra effort on their part to keep them happy. Whereas, walkers and cyclists are greater in numbers but require effort and investment to grow their numbers. Apart from potentially using these groups to exert more pressure on central government to reassess funding there isn’t any payback loop for CRTs investment in these groups. I strongly agree with your comments around accountability at senior levels in CRT. I would draw some parallels with Birmingham City Council and others who are wasting our money hand over fist and are never taken to account. They just increase council tax and continue to waste money on many but not all pointless investments. Perhaps the government are trying to make CRT more accountable rather just holding their hand out for more funds.
I think society has become lazy in holding organisations to account. Largely because we are having an easy time, despite what some might feel or say. If we were really struggling we as a country would return to the 70s. We’re far from that era although the tide may be turning on some issues. I just want to do my bit. If Mr Parry knows who I am, that’ll be a good thing. I’m making inroads. Thanks John.
A very perceptive vlog this time, Chris. In my old job, I used to facilitate workshops within the organisation, and just like your paid workers, I got more honest views of the management and organisation during the comfort and fag breaks. BTW, re your knees, if I were an Mk 2 Cortina, I'd need a bit of welding and probably a few suspension joints replacing! 🙂 Have a good week.
Thanks Malcolm. Good point on the Mk2. My body has been abused for long periods of time carrying heavy loads with guns and bullets. My back was in tatters this week. Thanks for the support.
Hi Chris great vid. Spot n with the CRT comments. I have been trying to work out if as CCers we really do use more of the network, in the winter months possible yes. In the summer a CCer will still stay in one place for 14days (maybe) where as someone coming out of a marina will use more locks more water points and more rubbish points. A lot of CCers try to stay in one area sum CCers do travel the network. From the CRT there are no facts and figures on this. Call any time 👍. 😀😀
Good point Peter. Didn’t consider that. I’ll give you a bell early next week.
Hi Chris I just wanted to say I totally agree with your views and comments on the license fee and the crt,s handling of the situation , being a new boater things I have noticed that would make a big difference include better maintained tow path and mooring and also water management with so many leaky water points and leaking lock gates I dread to think how much water the canals lose each year but iv got to the point where I try not to think about it because I'd find it too depressing and I didn't move onto the canals to worry and get depressed about things I can't control 😊😊
There is wastage across all the water authorities. I think no-one is held to account properly. The CRT and all the water authorise waste water. It would be better to re-nationalise most if them. We don’t belong back in the 70s and I think the public sector could do a better job and the ministers would hold them to account better. It does need investment though. Thanks Nathan.
@@chrismears-inslowtimeas usual Chris youv hit the nail bang on the head , I remember one of susaks first speeches saying this was going to be the government of accountability but I haven't seen that happen yet
Bins are being removed along the canal network. CRT made an announcement in their weekly Boaters’ Update last year about it and said this would begin with the removal of dog waste bins on the towpath. Reason given was that it was too expensive to have them emptied.
I emailed the CRT and complained. I said we’d have more dog mess on towpaths (and this has come to pass) and that there would be little bags hanging from trees. A lady from the CRT said this was the first she’d heard about this (oh really?) and that she’d investigate and come back to me. Guess what? Never heard anything!
Everything you stated has come true and I’ve stood in the offending offerings too many times now. Perhaps the CRT could save more money by paying execs less in bonuses and holding them to account to deliver more. But, they’re delivering what it is the Trustee’s are demanding. To what standard…..discuss.
If (as is inferred by the specific targeting of continuous cruisers) CRT want to stop the CC lifestyle, then why don't they invest in some sort of municipal marina scheme, where CRT themselves create the marinas to house those that cannot afford extortionate private marina fees? Something with just basic facilities: Water, waste and electricity on meters, with parking and possibly a slipway for blacking and trailer/dinghy access to the canal, run by volunteers. At least then the boat owner will be getting something for their extra fee, rather than being expected to pay double for nothing in return or even worse a degrading canal network.
I can see that sort of thing being an asset to CRT, they have land all around the network that seems to just fall into the hands of developers for a short-term pot of cash, rather than investing to provide a long-term asset to the canals.
It wouldn't even take much development: there are plenty of disused arms that could be brought back into use using equipment like dredgers that CRT already own. All it would take is the installation of pontoons and facilities to create a "linear marina".
Otherwise, without the requisite investment and tolerance for CC-ers, it would seem this is just a move to gentrify the canals and remove those that are struggling to survive from the canals altogether. Hardly the inclusive attitude that CRT bandy about on their website as CRT would rather wield the stick instead of providing support. For instance a distinct lack of discounts for those on fixed incomes or benefits, or help and understanding for people in that situation. There seems no effort for instance to negotiate with HMRC or the government to legally recognise CRT as a boater's landlord, so that CRT fees could be paid like rents are paid to landlords for those on benefits or pensions. Thereby guaranteeing CRT fees are paid even by the most vulnerable.
Well said I can’t see why the government can’t pay a sort of rent
I’ve thought of the very same thing Mark. It would need investment which I’m sure central Govt might be aligned to when the discover they would have to house those who can’t afford to be on the water. That of course doesn’t come out of the CRT pot so the CRT aren’t bothered about the consequences of loosing customers. I think it would be better to re nationalise the waterways so it’s run better and people become more of a focus. Currently its about nature and the wider public for ‘wellbeing’ purposes.
CRT management staff pay increases?
They do get bonuses too so maybe those are on the rise.
Good talk.
For comparson to my house rates in New Zealand.
My weekly rates are $72.85 with pensioner discount of about $200 a year. An amount of approx $3,788.
The fornightly payment of my rates comes to about one seventh of my fornightly pension for comparison.
But I live in a beautiful town with wonderful facilities.
I wonder how your licenses compare to your village rates? But as you say what facilities do you get and how are they maintaining the waterways. Or are they just continually plugging the holes.
Are there otherways they could raise money or have local areas maintain the walkways/ towpaths. As they are surely assests to the communities the canals past through? .While the CRC? concentrate on keeping the canals usuable and healthy.
Also why are your elsan points so awkward and high to use. Every town in NZ has at least one dump station (as we call them) . My town has 4 to my knowledge. A lot of petrol stations have them, all for the traveling and holiday vans/ campers etc and of cause stock trucks. Though they usually use dump stations in the more country or industrial areas and which tend to be larger in size. The motorhome people can use them too.
All at ground level in a hole so no lifting.Though don't drop your car keys😅!
Plus a tap and hose for washing cassettes and pumpout hoses. And usually potable water as well.
Para 1. The CRT are raising finds and awareness as a priority task and also the towpaths are on an improvement scheme but the towpaths are generally paid for by other organisations - cycling have an influence. Certainly cheaper than village rates as we can’t use the library, doctors, dentists etc.
Para 2. I believe all that Elsan stuff is down to culture. It would be worse for CRT is they didn’t provide them as the sewage would be dumped in the canal. 50 yr ago, that was the case but ‘Blue’ is highly toxic and bad for the fishes. Transparency is key and getting out on the water also helps. Not sure the exec team does enough of that. Tanks for the comment and enjoy your week.
Hi Chris, I agree with what you say, the canal do need looking after more. I’m afraid that I think your sums were wrong, you should have only been adding 5% each year to the new total . Cheers mate
I hope you’re ring Martin. I got the info from the CRT website but I’m more than happy to be wrong. Thanks for the support.
Well done Chris you have put it out there and stuck your head out... Its easy just to pay and moan and say nothing and i think it will take a lot more people to be brave to make a difference leta see...👍🤛
I’m hoping to galvanise support from the boating community….discuss. Thanks for the support
i never knew there was a license fee for narrow boats
Hi Max. I hope you are well. In short yes there is a license and it’s going up every year for those who live on the towpath above and beyond those who reside in a marina and above the rate of inflation for the next 5 years. My plan is to try to gain some form of accountability for the extra money we are going to pay. Keep going with your channel. It’s hard work but you’ll be learning with each vid you put out.
So a CC only has to move 26 times a year, (once every 2 weeks) to satisfy the T's & C's of the licence.
However a shared ownership boat, is out on the system for 48 weeks of the year, every week.
So how does a CC use the network more ?
If a CC has to pay more to use the network all year, is there to be a restriction on network use, for those who don't pay more. --- No.
Agreed Martin. I suspect, it falls in the too difficult bracket to administer.
@@chrismears-inslowtime at the end of day, they've been wanting CC'ers off the cut, for years.
They need "All" Boats nicely tucked up in Marina's, (and in my opinion) so the network can be controlled.
Hence having even more control of one's life, and how it is lived.
I don't do being controlled by anyone or anything. Which is why I prefer to be as far out of the Dystopian system we are currently facing as I can.
Should SHTF happen, the Very last place I want to be, is in a marina.
Hats Off, Chris
Happy Days. 👍
Hi Chris as a new boater I can’t really comment on how CRT run the network yet , however my first impression isn’t good . I bought my boat in Dec 23 and duly payed my CRT dues declaring myself as a CC ,however it’s now feb 24 and I haven’t left the marina as all the canals/ rivers in Berkshire are closed. I contacted CRT to put my license on hold till I was able to use the network and change my mooring status but was told it can’t be done. As fees are none refundable and there not responsible for the weather conditions. I am looking at loosing 4 months of of my license. I know I should have checked the local conditions on the K&A before buying the boat ( rooky error ) but the lack of any empathy or support from CRT is shocking.
Sorry to hear that Geordie. I recognise more importantly now that service is key. Empathy costs nothing. The way people address issues is free. The CRT would want to refund a license as they would need to do that for the winter mooring people. In effect that is what has happened to you. I’m heading down your way in the coming months but I have been told to leave the K&A in September or stay. Not many mooring spots so I’ll be off.
It will be like Holland in a few years !
Reckon so. Thanks for the support Chris.
They will be charging us to breath air soon ..enjoy life while we still have it ..😊
It does appear that way and thankfully I’m in the retirement category and not the starting out in life segment. Thanks Lynn.
Happy belated St Valentine’s Day to you! Where to begin…. I’m afraid my thoughts won’t matter on this subject of CRT. What I will say is that IMO what is happening is what is happening to all of us at the bottom of the pyramid globally. There’s a big club and we ain’t in it! By George Carlin. I can’t speak my mind as I’m afraid it will be censored. Chris, how much more would it cost for you to live in a marina as opposed to what these increases will be? I almost feel like they know they will be squeezing many boaters off of the canals and into homelessness, like van life or living in 15 minute cities. This is happening to so many here in the US. It’s coming. This all makes me think of what has happened to the Gypsies. Their way of life has come to an end. I loved your song choice. Take care of yourself and have a great week.
Thanks Val. I agree the state of the world is changing and globalisation isn’t necessarily a good thing as the rich continue to get richer. It’s known as Pareto’s Distribution. Really interesting. To live in a marina is far more expensive and comes with benefits. Not sure it’ll happen just yet but it has crossed my mind.
Very nice view Chris, continuous cruises keep the canals clear from overgrowth. It’s like well walk path it stays clear you can see it. But if you stop using it, it will revert back to nature , they’ll just price people out of the narrowboats, with no where for them to live as the building houses that people can afford to buy or even rent , as you say there’s a few people at the top who are there for the money and power , (look at me types)
It’s like that here in Manchester/Stratford where They narrowed the roads I’m putting in a cycle path and facing the road they’ve put 3 wooden sun loungers 😂😂now that’s Council leaders for you, who passed that😂 , I reckon it could be a rest station for the drivers stuck in traffic, which the counsellor pinched the roads to make you longer, so they can eventually charge for them. My rant over.
Good vlog Chris hopefully you’ll have a good response to it 👍👍👍👍😂🇬🇧☘️🫵
Thanks Tom. The good ideas club come up with all sorts of stuff that I suspect at the time seems feasible. Cycle paths I’m in favour of because motorists don’t give enough room. I think most new motorists haven’t used cycles in their younger days on the road because it’s too dangerous. Too many cars. The solution, make public transport cheaper to use than cars. Commuters use the busses meaning fewer cars and the cyclists feel safer. Just one solution, but it’s all down to different pots of money and never a joined up affair. Maybe a strategist in Govt could think a bit more strategically.
So, if I 'fair weather' navigate the system but take up a CRT winter mooring for 4 months does that make me a continuous cruiser or not....? Hardly continuous if spend 4 months in one spot and paying them extra for the privilege.
Short answer. No. If you choose to winter moor that is still under a continuous cruiser license. You just pay extra for the privilege of staying put in a generally poor kept area. Sorry Mike. No good news there. Just reality.
So what will happen in year 6 and beyond? Will it continue in this way OR will it just be inflation from that point? I’ve looked at CRT and it doesn’t mention what will happen after these next 5 years.
Very poor if you ask me. Just sounds like a lot and if it does continue it will be cheaper to stay in a marina unless of course they follow suit.
First the price of narrowboats went up significantly, parts and labour are also more expensive and now the licence fees what next? Or am I becoming cynical 😂
Julie, you make a very good point. Up to year 5 is a plan. Beyond 5 years is a strategy. It’s poor CRT have not informed the boating community what’s beyond years 5. To go back to the standard license fee would be good. If not tell us so we can plan. I think someone who’s more in touch needs to become the CEO. Mr Parry needs to stop being a resources manager and become a peoples person. Bring the community with you.
Completely agree
Hi Chris, I’m not a boater but wanted to retire onto a narrowboat.
However, am I understanding this correctly? If the prices increase as you say surely that’s a 75% increase by the time you get to the 5th year plus the usual increase. Day light robbery.
Many people are just not going to be able to pay this. What then? They come off a boat, claim benefits and live in rented accommodation. This would cost the Government a huge amount of money, cheaper, surely, to fund CRT. In the meantime people will possibly become homeless.
I hope I’ve misunderstood, if not my dream of retiring onto a Narrowboat will not materialise 😢
Spot on Julie. It works from pots of money. The CRT don’t care about the cause and effect. Central Govt won’t hold them to account nor give them extra money to avoid what you discussed. It would be cheaper to do so. As for retiring on a narrowboat and my sums, it’s still cheap to live on the canals and my boat is one of the biggest varieties. I hope I’ve got it wrong but I took the info from the CRT website. Many people believe I am wrong. I hope so too.
My attitude these days chris ...we cant change the world or how people act or even think ..i keep my standards high and live by my morals ..i like to appreciate what the beatiful things in life still have .. know the cost off living is tuff ...i try and compinsate my life style..and try not to analyse everything ..as i have discovered it drives you bonkers ..because the sad thing is most pelple dont care and only think off them selfs..which is hard to deal with ..the more people that embrace what we have ..i open my window everyday ..listen to the birds fighting and squballing😂 and think life is wonderful ..then i go out with a positive mind ..and then i pat myself on the head at the end off the day ..for beign a decent human beign ..it took alot of hurt and pain to get there but ive got there..😊 your waisting your time analysing crt .put you energy into the hear and now ..as you know we never know what life can do to trip us all up..keep up the coooking skills there great ..enjoy your day ..enjoy your life ..😊
I understand your point of view Lynn. I have spent my life prepared to die for what I believe in. I admit Blair dragged us in to a few unnecessary wars. I am not going to die taking on CRT but I will get that warm feeling inside that my fight will benefit others. Hopefully people will recognise that and be able to pay it forward in other ways.
Yes get where your comming from .wish you Ll the best with that ..
On the CRT Licence Prices page it asks if you are CC yes/no so by mooring in a marina you are not. So I was wondering which category do those who maybe winter in a marina then cruise for a couple months in summer then moor up in a different marina come under?
Interesting point. They would have to prove they have come from a marina and going to another one with a continual contract. Then they could cruise about as long as they required. Break in the contract and I would suggest CRT would put them on a CC license. Good question Gary. Not sure my answer is 100% correct but 80% is good enough.
Absolute power corrupts absolutely
Well Done Chris, give the CRT some back, mateX😊
Thanks Julie. More to come I’m afraid.
@@chrismears-inslowtime Are you going Crick this year? I'm there Saturday. Hoping to see you. 😁
Great insight on canal life politics . One of the reasons I want to live on a boat is for the simple life - do you find the problems you encounter , witness spoils that simple life much ?
If you just lead a simple life and accept everything thrown at you, the Instagram lifestyle is there. It doesn’t spoil the life but I believe in holding organisations to account where I feel there’s hidden agenda and mismanagement. If the CRT were more transparent I think the boating community would be more on-side. Hide the detail and mistrust comes in. Just my thoughts, except it’s not!!!!
Do marinas come under the CRBT? If so why doesn’t the same costs apply. I understand boats moored in marinas or by the side of the canal can cruise the canals for short periods
I’m of the understanding the Marinas pay quite a bit to CRT as the marina is using the CRT water. You mention about marina boats. Most of them stay in the marina and venture out for weekends occasionally. Some use them more but i suppose, It’s about policing. The answer is already in what they’re doing. The licence checkers take the numbers of the boats they see on the water. If they did their job, the CRT would have a record and charge according to days out. Unpopular but so is the CC licence. Thanks for the comments Bob.
There's a basin w/ end to it, boat time went & couldn't get through the reeds & algae green covering all water! I think crt took on this whole picture, not prepared @ all.
I think it’s all about priorities. The boating community is not a priority. I’m going to put pen to paper, as such and I have a plan Tina. Thanks for your support.
Well said Chris the CRT have now set different types of boater against each other, divide and conquer.
There will be no improvements its just funds for the balance sheet.
Ive terminated my 6 yr old CRT licence and switched to the cheaper EA licence coz I dont leave The Thames , many others I know have done the same .
Yes the EA fees may go up but not with the crazy CRT style surcharges.
I think they want far less boats outside of marinas so this is how they will start.
There are work around and I think the EA license could be a winner if you are going to use those waters like the Thames etc. I believe CRT are guilty of poor media comms. There are so many ideas I would have to tell a different story and engage with the segment that pays the most. Thanks for the comment.
Hi Chris, I reckon 5% increase of your numbers was a bit off... starting with 1349, a 5% increase is 1417 in year one, then 1563, 1641, 1723 and 1809. Interesting discussion there. Dont think you can avoid being political there.
I was wondering about that as well, thought Chris was adding increase on twice, not sure though would have to watch again
Hi Rob and Harry. It does appear not too many people recognise the license will go up by 5% each year for the next 5 years and the inflationary costs too. The sums may be wrong and I accept that but the principle is correct…..I think. I’ll link it in the next vlog as I’ll have to mention this topic again.
yes, agree.
Hi mate so far you are correct with everything you have said.about the c r t.
Unfortunately when it comes to licence fees they have boaters by the short and curly .. if you don't pay your boat is gone as a few people have found out..
For years boaters have been asking for bin areas to be locked as the public see the bins as published skips..
You mentioned about the c t t painting themselves as open to scrutiny .!!!!!!!! Sorry but I have not stopped laughing yet.????
Have you ever tried to make a complaint about something that concerns the running of the c .r.t..you will find it almost impossible to get even a reply from them ..
Why they have not introduced a system where boaters with building skills are not offered a reduction in the fees if they carry out work on the canals .for a couple of hours a month is beyond me.. since I left the canals I bought a small boat which I keep at the local boat club.
The people who have boats there carry out repairs in return for a reduction in yearly fees.which benefits them and the club as there is no need for outside contractors.
But like a lot of people who run corporation's common sense is a thing that is beyond them.
You mentioned about how much a contractor charges.. most of them work on a fixed price set by the c.r.t..
You should be able to get a copy of fixed prices from the c r t.. anyway mate keep safe and well.
And keep putting out your interesting and informative videos.👍👍👍...
Agreed with the skills effect but last week I got into a bit of a tit for tat with someone over H&S. It needs dynamic managers and leaders who have a different mindset and can think outside the normal working practices. I agree a boater could take charge of an area and keep it clean, tidy and cut back. Wouldn’t take much. However, common sense is disappearing and so are the risk takers in management. Thanks for the comment Wayne.
Name change to Rudolph??? Perhaps
That red nose or perhaps Pinocchio.
I’m glad I sold my boat. It was getting very expensive, especially when the canal companies don’t maintain them to a useable standard. No names mentioned….
Couldn't agree more. CRT are a bit poor at maintenance to allow navigation to happen. The off tow path has about 10+ years of growth which is when CRT took over. Clearly there was an intent to not bother looking after the waterways. Just my thoughts....
Looking at this from someone not living on the waterways yet, I think in the big scheme of things, central government won’t and shouldn’t spend funds on the canal network when the health and social care system is in such a mess and crucially needs more funding. I think it’s wonderful that there are so many volunteers helping to maintain the canals, maybe some of the continuous cruisers could also help out if they have time? And maybe CRT could reward them with reduced fees or increase length of stay etc. Money spent on ‘hotels’ for refugees and those in real need is a drop in the ocean compared to the expenses MP’s etc fiddle each year, so not a valid argument in my opinion. I know you encourage debate, so thought I would put some of my opinions on some of the subjects you covered in your vlog
I understand your point of view Michele. Yes the health care needs more funds and it needs to be managed better. The military needs more funding. The roads ought to have fewer potholes and the farmers need better support. The Govt is failing us and I agree with the MPs excessive claims and allowances package. I just want the execs of CRT to be clearer and transparent. I do think the Govt spend too much on refugees because most aren’t. But it’s ok to disagree. Thanks for the comment.
Hi Chris. It seems that your logic for calculating the increases was a little askew. From your base of £1349 your subsequent years should have been £1446, £1518, £1593, £1673.
Thanks for the sums Nigel. I take it that is a 5% increase per year. The website suggests it raises by 5% each year up to 25% in year 5 so despite the math being a bit off, the concept is daunting for those who are struggling now.
Hmmm... I think they mean 5% per year for 4 years. I'm not in the UK so I don't have a pound sign on my keyboard so I'll just use the numbers. 1349.83 + 5% 67.49 = 1417.32. 1417.32 + 5% 70.86 = 1488.18. 1488.18 + 5% 74.40 = 1562.58. 1562.58 + 5% 78.12 = 1640.70.
I think you're correct, 5% each year; not 5, 10, 15 etc.
I hope you’re both right. Thanks for the sums too Steve.
A little late watching this week, i guess the licence fee is the equivalent of a house owners council tax, which also rises at approximately 5% per year.
Boaters if needed can use all the facilities a council tax payer can use. Hospitals, school, emergency services, even roads for the ones that have cars too.
There's no getting away from paying. The CRT are as useless in spending the money as local councils and i don't think that will ever change.
I get the point you make Ann and if I was living on land the the council were crap I’ll be having a pop at them too. But the councils have far more issues to deal with so the task is a little more complex.
Make it clear what the KPI is for the CRT chair to receive a 25k bonus.🤔
Indeed. That would be down to whether the KPIs are meet in the first place. I does appear reading some literature, it’s not a lot to do with boating or people.
a motorhome suddenly makes economic sense
The main reason why I dismissed that life is because of space and the perceived difficulty parking up. Todays life is a king it more difficult I am told. Also through life costs I worked out to be quite expensive but then my math is crap.
The CRT managers are like the management of every marina we ever stayed in. They like boats and they love the money that comes with boats but they hate boaters. Boaters have needs and demand things and expect value for money. With out boaters their job would be easy. In their eyes the worst sort of boater is the full time liveaboard because they are always there to notice when they are doing a bad job and point it out to them.
Very good point and well made. I tend to agree despite never been in a marina. I can visualise it.
The survey was a legal requirement. Please don't think that anything that was submitted on the survey had any relevance to the outcome. That was predetermined by the CRT.
Are the results of the questions asked in the public domain? The Military have a Continuous Attitude Survey and everything is published. It certainly highlights the short comings. Is it taken notice of….discuss. But there is a lack of people joining up. That’s a more complex issue.
@@chrismears-inslowtime Military is so different to the world of charities Chris. The Military are known for adapting and improving upon every aspect whoever possible, or at least that's their goal. For charities, they needed to increase their funding via a path, to tick all of those boxes, they were obliged to have documented opinions from members. They ticked those boxes with the surveys. And then they were allowed to increase the funding path. Job done.
Is the increase not compounded 5% each year so 5% on the last year total each year. No matter it is an increase without any addd value. The decline of the canals and the CRT delivery should be scrutinised as you have. People power to get the CRT to listen!!!!
There are many who have commented that it’s not compound but a 5% rise year on year. However the website doesn’t make that clear which is where I got my info from. I hope I’m wrong. Without being held to account, any organisation becomes complacent. I think the CRT have fallen in that category. I’ve always had a pop at those who use their position and power poorly. I just don’t like bullies and they are a form of it I think.
I wonder how a wide beam uses more of the CRT facilities to warrant their additional costs? Of course, what it does do is to divide the community and set one group of boaters against another. Well played CRT! Of course, spending vast sums on towpaths looks great and is fantastic for walkers and cyclists it doesn't help with recycling, waste or pump out/elsan points. What a sad state of affairs.
I agree Gary. I’m one of those boaters that is not bothered by WB. They should pay by length only. In marinas I get it. They take up two spots.
I don't think the crt realises when the boats stop moving the visitors will stop coming an this will happen sooner than later the way the network is serviced in every aspect
It is about the boats on those areas of locks. Always a crowd at Stoke Bruerne and Foxton Locks. I’m soon to pass through Napton locks. I thinks there will be a few peps watching there. Thanks for the comment Steve.
Those that run the canals in Scotland also do not want boaters, if you want to move anywhere you have to phone them and ask what time they can work the locks (boaters are not allowed to work the locks) and do not expect them to do so after 5pm or at the weekend the Forth & Clyde canal is so shallow now due to them lowering the water level to protect the banks, Yachts can no longer passage through the canals.
That is one solution that could have happened here Harry and used to happen. They were called lock keepers. Came with a house too. Sometimes progress on one hand means rising costs on another and businesses don’t want rising costs. It means their strategy failed. It means they’re decision making is poor which reflects on their management. Discuss. Not to work on a weekend is poor at best. Thanks for the comment Harry.
Hi Chris, I'm now retired and basically had a number of dead end jobs. My experience in each was that management's view of their staff was " do what I say, or go somewhere else". It would appear from your excellent vlog, nothing has changed. Those in positions of authority are really only interested in themselves and how they can improve their lot.
I'm sorry to tell you, but Mr CEO won't talk to you coz you talk sense, and he can't contradict you.
Thanks Daniel. I agree with management in business from what I’ve heard. I wonder how many business have management programs. I wonder how many the CEO has been on. I was able to attend an 8 week management course for Officers as I wasn’t one. It was basically a load of old crap and I told them. I learnt a lot from it but little to do with management or leadership. It was very academic which I was able to stretch my mind from. The application of dealing with people means you need empathy. Not sure there is much of that from the decision makers of the canals.
The only network I believe that works in Braunston is EE, with a very strong.
Yes, I’ve heard that. I do wonder why other networks don’t just share resources. It’s the Prisoner’s Dilemma.
‘Life’s better by the water’ they say,…..
Well it may be for some but having experienced the CRT first hand I can tell you that the way they conduct themselves at times is shameful….
That phrase is not measurable so as far as CRT are concerned, they are. It’s an intent or a vision statement. But they don’t have a mission statement nor vision statement. Just a buzzword. Thanks for the comment Richard.
I couldn't agree with you more Chris. It is completely wrong that boaters, especially CC are treated the way they are. The CRT needs a major overhaul from the top down. They need to be more accountable and should treat boaters more as shareholders and so take account of their needs and views. If CRT concentrated on getting the basics right the rest would fall into place relatively easy. CRT should make sure they are keeping the core users of the canal network, the boaters (the main financial contributors) happy. Losing boaters in the years to come will mean even less money coming in which will have an even greater detrimental effect. It's a downward spiral from then on until the CRT can no longer be viable, the canal network falls into complete disrepair and the country loses a beautiful part of its history...........and the CRT bigwigs lose their plush salaries.
Agreed but their argument would be the fewer the boats the less business as usual costs. Get the basics right and the rest will fall into place as the boating community would look after stuff better. The culture of caring less comes from Mr Parry. It’s the culture he has created but not held to account for. The only way to change that is to change the top and create a more caring culture. It works. I did my dissertation for the MBA on the effects of culture in the workplace.
Hi. I think your maths are wrong Chris as I believe it is 5% each year on current rate thats year, not plus 5% each year compounded, as in, it isn't going up 10% on next years figure etc, it is going up 5% each year on the current rate of that year, if that makes sense
I hope you’re right. I did get the info from the CRT website so that maybe a little unclear or maybe I’m just not very good with maths and problem solving. Thanks for the comment
They might pull the plug out and turn the cut into a electric bike road ..enjoy whilst its all still there 😊
There was a consultation period about making the cut more electric friendly for that style of boat. It didn’t last for more than a few hours before they realised it was too difficult and would be a waste of money. What I found strange, is they could use a bit of common and basic analysis to work that out for themselves!
CRT concentrate on just generating money for there top brass wages . No help for boaters because of removal of services . Also there are lots of places which need dredging especially round hemel hempstead miles of beautiful places moore but no chance of getting to the bank. And as for the repairs when lock gates are fitted , how about 3 locks Soulbury just had new gates fitted and they leak just as bad as before . Its a joke
I agree with the Hemel areas. Particularly those pounds between boxmoor and the marina. There is really no excuse. I wonder if the lack of workforce and a management chain that appear not to listen, the area manager walks the towpath to talk to the boating community and send feedback. Don’t answer as I reckon I’ve worked it out.
Talking sense CRT take note
I wonder if they even care. Who is the media person scouring for content for disrupters like I’m going to become. I’m going to be the Warrant Officer I was. I wanted to have an easy life…..Thanks for the comment.
Chris - if they are increasing by 5% each year the next year's rate will be 105% of the current year..
Year Rate
2023 1349.83
2024 1417.32
2025 1488.19
2026 1562.60
2027 1640.73
2028 1722.76
I hope youre right Graham. The info I got from the website and I hope it was just poorly written. But, what I stated was standard licence fee plus the increase which went from 5%-25%. Your sums are a lot more palatable.
Chris your first calculation is wrong £1349.83 + 5% = £1417.32 not the £1464.57 you have shown.
Thanks Gary. Not surprised. Secondary Modern education which suns wasn’t a strong point. Soz. (Sums so neither was English)
No issue obviously it compounds the total cost you had worked out. I agree with you though its about what do you get for the cost and it seems like potentially not a great deal
For a survey to not publish results by significant category is seriously lacking transparency. Poor show CRT. To understand that the CRT wishes to move the needle by 2 points in a year is really poor. 54% to 56... Would you be happy with half a meal, a test score of 56? A marriage where 1 person is so unhappy? 56% is abject failure.. Fess up CRT...where is the money going? Where is the service...rant... John
Good rant John. I agree with the 50% margins of success. It’s not acceptable. And what makes it pathetic, the execs clearly think a 2% increase is for the boating satisfaction survey. So what happens if they fail? Who gets sacked?
Freedom of speech in the UK? Rant if you want. LOL Seems to me if the costs are going up, so should the repairs. There are many locks that need repaired. Pounds that need filled more often. Just saying. I follow more than one narrow boat Vlog. PS: I stayed for the whole thing, good rant.
Thanks Bob. Maybe do more of it in the future.
5% per year...do it again and you'll feel a bit better lol
That’s what I was told at school. I get the concept and to be honest I’m probably going to get a lot of “See Me” comments. However it’s the bit afterwards for me that counts. Whatever we have to pay extra, if the return is less for more money, that doesn’t feel right. The boaters don’t want much. Thanks for the comment.
Chris, That's just the base for your license, ontop of that you have a surcharge for being a continuous cruiser which goes up year by year. Within three years you will be paying double for your license. The whole point about this is they can't charge extra for being a continuous cruiser when you already pay for a continuous cruiser license? They force you to continuous cruise every two weeks then they say we're charging you for doing it! Its a boaters choice to have a mooring they never reduced the license for boats with moorings. Services have been closed instead of repairing, As i've stated in the past they have had years to get ready for the loss of government funding and sat on thier arses. now they want boaters to lobby thier Mp's to keep the funding! Do you think for one moment they will reduce the License if they keep the funding?? CRT have done a piss poor job and government need to look into it. This is our heritage they are messing with. They have always wanted boats off the canals and in marinas, boaters have known that for years. Where I am moored the bank was collapsing, instead of fixing it they moved the boats, that was three years ago, they waste so much money it's rediculous. They got rid of thier workforce in favour of sub contractors which now costs more than the workforce did. That's like the culture of all town coucils sub contract everything.
I get it Flash. You are as frustrated as I am but I don’t think I have your experience. There is a lack of consultation with the boasting community. I think we should vote for the CEO like the PM. Put your manifesto to the audience which is costed and you have 5 years to make it happen. Justify the reasons why you’ve failed to produce and if we think it’s justified, you get another 5 years with an amended manifesto which is reviewed in 3 years on the naughty step. If progress is made, continue, if not……
Lost the experience with the workforce. Criminal…
800 and 88 million people? Theres only about 70 million people living in the UK. Something is off with your figures im afraid.
Charge the public for walking on the tow path….£1 per walk would bring in huge revenue
Few would pay. It’s a nice “freeby”. It is a dilemma for CRT. Thanks John.
How would you propose this £1 per walk being collected with literally millions of access points to towpaths. Would you then expect hill walkers and ramblers to pay for access to the countryside? 🤣🤣
@@gillgregory6327 pedestrian toll gate 😂😂😂
also charge boaters £1 for every time they leave the towpath,to walk to shops, pubs,leisure etc etc,for the upkeep of ,Pavements ,footpaths etc...
Im not beign funny chris ..but some of them new boaties live in cooo cooo land
Does that include me though. I’m new?
No not you lol
making towpaths softer for the bicikals ??????we pay not them .picnic benches for the walkers . agen we pay not them and the list goes on and on
Hi Robert. I am lead to believe the upgrade of the towpaths are not paid for by CRT. They don’t make that clear but again it would be useful for CRT to be more transparent and that is a perception. I would direct the media exec to do a better job at what CRT are responsible for and where the monies come from. I’m sure it;s on the website, but I think CRT’s media ops is poor at best.