Residents, river users including commercial operators and rowing clubs, and other interested members of the public are being invited to share their views on proposed fees for the 2027/28 financial year. The consultation is open until 30 October 2026.
The Conservators of the River Cam, established in 1702, are the statutory navigation authority responsible for the River Cam between Bottisham Lock and the Mill Pond in Cambridge. They maintain the river to keep it navigable, balancing the needs of river users and riverside residents, and manage the waterway with consideration for the environment. Their operational income is generated through registration fees, event fees, and Section 15 application fees.
The Conservators note that operational costs, maintenance requirements, and regulatory obligations have increased significantly since the last consultation in 2021. The consultation outlines a revised fee structure, including inflation-linked increases for private powered and unpowered craft, changes to commercial vessel and punt operator fees, revised fees for rowing and university boat clubs, and changes to charges for events, filming, and works affecting the river.
For example, as rowing activity necessitates substantially more intensive vegetation clearance, the Conservators propose that the registration fee for a double scull rowing boat would increase from approximately £1.80 per week to £5.40 per week.
These are proposals for consultation, and no final decisions have been made. Anyone interested can find the consultation document on the Conservators’ website and should submit their response no later than midnight on 30 October 2026.
The Conservators will host a public forum at Tillage Hall, Waterbeach, CB25 9NJ, commencing at 10am on 5th November, to give the public and river users an opportunity to meet the team and raise matters of interest. For questions, email info@camconservators.org.uk or visit their website.
The Conservators are an independent statutory body. While Cambridge City Council works with them, the proposed fees are the responsibility of the Conservators. The current situation for inland navigation authorities across the UK is challenging, with many governed by laws made in the 1800s. Commissioners have legal and fiduciary obligations, and the River Cam Conservancy Act 1922 provides for 13 Conservators to be appointed by various bodies, including Cambridge City Council and the University of Cambridge.
Cambridge City Council appointed 4 conservators for a 3-year term from 1st January 2025 as part of support to improve governance. The council also provided technical support and a £50,000 grant, with South Cambridgeshire District Council, to help the Conservancy develop a sustainable operating model and funding strategy.
