Stevenage Borough Council Bans Unaffiliated Model Boat Use on Park Lake
Stevenage Borough Council has installed signage at Fairlands Valley Park to restrict the use of high-powered model boats on Millennium Lake, permitting access only to those participating in sessions organized by the local boat club.
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According to BBC UK, Stevenage Borough Council has placed a sign at Fairlands Valley Park to prevent individuals outside of the local club from operating "high-powered model boats" on Millennium Lake. People with model boats are prohibited from using the park's lake unless they are participating in an event managed by the local boat club.
Ian Searle, who serves as the secretary for the Stevenage Model Boat Club, noted that commercially available model boats can reach speeds of 60-70mph, which equates to up to 112km/h. Searle stated that individuals who lack experience and are typically uninsured might attempt to use these boats on the lake, which could potentially lead to an accident.
Searle mentioned that restrictions were implemented for club members several years ago, specifically banning boats equipped with internal combustion engines. He indicated that the sign near Millennium Lake was intended to address the situation of unrestricted use by everyone else.
The council stated that the Stevenage Model Boat Club holds "specific sessions at the lake and it is aware of the restrictions that are in place." A spokesperson further advised that anyone wishing to use an authorized type of model boat is welcome to do so by getting in touch with the club directly.
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