A MEETING has been called to further investigate controversial new charges introduced for boats using the River Hamble.

Boat-owners, users groups and businesses will discuss the new pricing system introduced at the beginning of the year.

It comes after concerns were raised about the lack of

consultation over their imposition.

From January 1, every boat using the river harbour has had to pay for the privilege, whereas in the past only those that moored or used visitor berths had to pay.

The River Hamble Harbour Board set up a small working group to monitor the new

harbour dues system and to assess if there were any alternatives.

The working group is holding a public meeting on Tuesday, April 18 for people to express their views.

Group chairman and vice-chairman of the River Hamble Management Commit-tee, Sean Woodward, pictured, said: "This is a valuable opportunity for anyone with concerns about the new charging regime to come and make their views known.

"The working group will consider carefully everything raised and will make recommendations to the Harbour Board at its next meeting in July."

From January 1, boats using the harbour were charged based on their size, or charged daily if they were only moored for a short time.

The introduction of the charges came in response to the Hamble's increasing popularity in a bid to protect its delicate ecosystem.

The charges affect roughly 1,500 boats and are expected to generate up to £10,000 a year for the River Hamble Harbour Board.

The meeting starts at 2pm at Warsash Sailing Club, in Shore Road, Warsash, and will also look at abolishing supervision charges.