Enjoy our coast and remember to comply with water byelaws and speed limits

We’ve seen a steady increase in the number of people heading to the Essex coast and getting out on to the water.

Our marine officers mount extra high-visibility patrols at water-based anti-social behaviour hotspots during the summer under the banner of Operation Wave-Breaker.

So you’ll see them around. They’re also one of our teams who’ll be keeping an eye out for you and helping to keep you safe at Clacton Airshow next Thursday and Friday 22 & 23 August.

Most visitors are respecting other water-users, local byelaws and speed limits.

But, sadly, we are continuing to receive reports of people ignoring speed limits on the River Blackwater and the River Colne, especially around the entrance to the harbour at West Mersea and Ray Creek at Point Clear.

Sergeant Alex Southgate, of our Marine Unit, explains:

“The Ray Creek area forms part of a nature reserve and is subject to an 8 knot, or 9mph, limit.
“It’s a very fragile nesting site for many endangered sea birds and wildlife. If you speed through this area, you not only risk a £2,000 fine for breaching the byelaws but also prosecution for disturbing the nesting birds.
“We want everyone who uses our coastline to be able to enjoy themselves safely but we remind you to consider the risk you create when you operate vessels, whether personal watercraft or motorboats, at speed in the restricted areas.”

He urges people to familiarise yourselves with our PWC Code of Conduct, which can be found on our Marine Unit webpages, where you can also find out how to report dangerous activity and anti-social behaviour.

Always call 999 in an emergency. But, when you are on the coast, do consider whether you need the police, coastguard, fire or ambulance service.

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