Boaters fined for speeding in Chichester Harbour

Two boaters forced to hand over more than £1500 in fines and costs after being caught speeding in RIBs in the 8-knot harbour

Two boaters have been forced to hand over more than £1500 in fines and costs after being caught speeding in Chichester Harbour.

The first incident took place in May this year and involved a Dorking man driving a RIB at more than 30 knots in the 8-knot harbour.

Mr S Hobbs said in his defence that the harbour was quiet at the time, and that he was not posing a danger to other vessels.

Portsmouth Magistrate Court rejected this and fined him £833 plus £250 in costs.

The second incident took place in June, and involved another boater travelling in a RIB at speed.

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The offender, Mr J Peters of Bursledon, was caught when travelling across Stocker Sands near the busy anchorage of East Head.

He was ordered to pay a fine of £250 plus £250 in costs.

Deputy Harbourmaster Richard Craven said, “There has been an increase in recent years in the number of RIBs using the harbour, many of which have very powerful engines.

“However, the speed limit has been set at 8 knots to ensure the safety of all harbour users. It is essential that all harbour users respect and keep within this limit.”

 

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