ENGLISH BOATERS CAN RETURNHOMENEWSCOVID-19ENGLISH BOATERS CAN RETURN11 May 2020EmailShareFacebookLinkedInTwitterPrintMDL is now allowing berth holders to carry out work on their boatsINDUSTRY DATABASEROYAL YACHTING ASSOCIATIONBoaters in England can return to the water from Wednesday, according to the RYA’s interpretation of the Government’s latest announcement stating unlimited outdoor activity is now allowed following the coronavirus lockdown.However, confusion remains with many marina operators still not allowing their berth holders to access the water.In an email to berth holders, Michael Glanville, MD of MDL that operates 18 marinas and 13 boatyards in the UK, said while boaters can now carry out work on their craft, it is still not permitted for them to get out onto the water.The RYA that has been lobbying the Government for the resumption of boating saying it can be resumed safely.“From Wednesday, 13 May unlimited outdoor activity will be permitted in England and we understand that this will include all forms of boating,” said the RYA in a statement.“Any activity will still need to be alone or with members of a single household and social distancing must be followed at all times.”Port authoritiesIn his email, Michael said MDL is waiting for any leisure boating changes from the port authorities.He continued: “We have social distancing measures in place and look forward to welcoming people coming to perform maintenance and security checks on their boats.“And while we understand the reasoning behind the government’s decision to ease lock down rules, in the way it has, we share your frustration about not being able to get out onto the water just yet.”And he said contractors have been able to continue to access MDL’s sites for essential maintenance during the lock down.Following the latest Government announcement, more tenant businesses will now be able to use their offices with staff working on site.In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the return to boating has not yet been confirmed and it is not yet known when clubs and training centres will be able to reopen their doors.

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