The Broads Authority have issued forty-one eviction notices to boat owners moored at the western end of Thorpe Island in Norwich, known locally as Jenner’s Basin. This is despite the landowner, Mr Roger Wood, being in possession of a covenant giving permission for such use.

Houseboats have been moored along this stretch of the river since at least 1922.

The Broads Authority, a statutory body with very little accountability, has also ordered the removal of solar panels that supply electricity to the houseboats and power the fresh water supply.  These services, which were due to be disconnected on the 18th December, just days before Christmas, are essential for the health and wellbeing of the houseboats in the Basin.

During Planning meetings, the Chair of the Broads Authority, Professor Jacquie Burgess, has described the boat dwellers as 'feral' people living in a 'shanty town'.  Not only is this inaccurate and disrespectful, it is indicative of the political motives behind the drive to force the boat owners into homelessness.

This petition has been raised in support of the boat owners and their right to stay where they are and live their lives in peace as part of a sustainable community.