This is a long story, starting from the vast expense of having ten people shepherding a boat through Standedge, and the tunnel closure being increased to all-winter AND five-days per week: indeed hardly open at all. Tests of emissions this year has been hopeful and various boats have been piloted through. Ours was because the tug wasn't operational. The Yorkshire BW user-group had a newsletter long these lines: (it was agreed to have a meeting to further discuss them following comments at the meeting)
"we propose to introduce a 'Chaperoned Diesel Operation' for the 2009 season. This will involve: All boats undergoing a safety assessment before transit; Critical points of the boats will be fendered; The boat owner and our chaperone will receive authorized PPE, lighting and two radios; A returnable deposit of £50 along with a small at-cost charge will be taken either in cash or by credit card, to ensure that guidelines are abided by and equipment returned in good order. This (returnable) deposit will be asked for at the point of booking to ensure boats turn up; Competent BW staff accompanying boat owners through the tunnel on their craft. BW staff will act as 'chaperones' and advise boaters on navigating the tunnel. At certain times, under the consent of the boat owner, BW staff may take the helm to steer through a difficult point. A further element of this development is to trial a tunnel long trip-boat during 2009. Currently, there is a 'hikers ticket' available which enables tourists to join convoy trips. The intention is to trial a Saturday through trip on the first Saturday of each month for six months. This will give the non-boating community the opportunity to see the entire tunnel. We will obviously need to closely monitor and review the success of these initiatives, and gauge the feedback from our customers on how to develop it further. We will be providing further information about operating days and safety issues at our user group meeting next week. " Regards PeterScott
