Calls to remove boats in River Itchen, Southampton

Northam Bridge

The abandoned and derelict boats can be seen in the River Itchen around Northam Bridge - and they have been described by locals as an “eyesore”.

Conservative councillor for Bitterne Park, Rob Harwood, said he was worried about the wreckages, as were his constituents.

Northam Bridge

“The boats are an eyesore and the people living on them put themselves in daily danger,” he told the Echo.

“It’s been several years, but the problem seems to be getting worse.”

Northam Bridge

He even claimed that the coastguard and emergency services have been called out “several times” to rescue people living in the wreckages.

He added: “The council is powerless to take action as the river falls under the jurisdiction of the Harbour Master.

“Requests for action have been made several times. However, unless the wrecks pose a hazard to navigation there appears little can be done.”

Northam Bridge

Fellow Bitterne Park councillor Ivan White also said that residents have contacted him to complain about this issue as well.

He said: “Past experience has indicated that not only resources are an issue for the port but ownership of the vessels has also to be established and this is an issue.”

A photo posted on social media last month of some of the newer additions to what was described as the city’s “ship graveyard” gained over a hundred likes and multiple comments.

One commenter said: “What an eyesore,” with another adding “I love the River Itchen but that end of the river looks dreadful.”

“Not a great advert for the city - nobody should have to look at these eyesores,” posted another.

The coastguard did not confirm whether they had attended any incidents regarding wreckages in the area.

UPDATE 16/4/21: In response to this article, a spokesperson for Associated British Ports (ABP) today said: “We are aware of a number of vessels located around Northam Bridge on the river Itchen in Southampton, which will need to be removed to ensure the safety of the local community.  

“As the responsible Statutory Harbour Authority for the area, we have an obligation to make sure that the river is free of obstructions in order to enable safe navigation.

"We will work collaboratively with all relevant authorities, including Southampton City Council and the local police to resolve this situation.”