The BA has agreed to raise navigation tolls for private craft by 11% and for hire boats by 7% for the coming financial year (2008-09).

The rise means the biggest group of private boats will see its annual bill rise from £122 to £190. Five years ago those motor boat owners paid £109 to the BA. It is also possible that the tolls may rise a further 11% in 2009 and 2010.

The BA says the toll hike will now help increase its dredging operations by 25% a year to help maintain the waterways. However, even with the toll increases the authority will face a budget deficit of £163,000 in its navigation account budget and will also see its reserves dwindle.

‘The navigation tolls still remain good value,’ said chief executive John Packman, ‘and the increase was modest. Since the authority announced its plans for the toll increase, there has been little adverse reaction.’