A group of owners want to see monthly payments replace the current annual lump sum people pay the Broads Authority (BA) to use the waterways.

The Broads Reform Action Group (BRAG) say changes to the system "would reduce strain on boaters and reduce avoidable administrative pressure for the authority itself".

Broads users currently pay their toll fees in one lump sum (Image: Danielle Booden)

“In modern life, monthly payment options are now widely accepted as the norm, including for many recurring public and household obligations," said Karen Morris, BRAG's chairwoman.

"People can pay council tax monthly, vehicle tax can be spread and countless other essential payments are structured in a way that reflects how people actually manage their finances in a modern world."

From April 1 each year, boaters pay an annual fee to use their boat on the Broads.

They range from around £50 for a paddleboard to hundreds of pounds for large motor cruisers.

Each additional square metre on the vessels could incur additional fees. 

The money raised is used to fund the maintenance of waterways.

A spokesman for the BA said: "Members are annually consulted on the level of tolls and any changes to the system. This includes the Navigation Committee, which represents boat owners and toll payers."

John Packman, chief executive of the Broads Authority (Image: Owen Sennitt)

The last consultation on potential changes to how toll fees were paid took place in June 2023, but the spokesman added "the impact on cashflow and the administration of missed payments was likely to have an impact on the overall costs paid by toll payers.”

John Packman, the outgoing chief executive of the authority, said earlier this month toll fee dodgers are placing extra pressure on its resources.

Ms Harris, however, believes a new system could reduce the demand placed on BA staff chasing payments.

She added: "A fair monthly payment option would reduce strain on boaters and reduce avoidable administrative pressure for the authority itself."

© Eastern Daily Press