Residents across 17 London boroughs overlooking the River Thames are outraged by proposed changes that could see them paying thousands more in licence fees simply for having balconies on their flats.
The Daily Mail reports that The Port of London Authority (PLA) is seeking to amend the Port of London Act 1968 through a Harbour Revision Order (HRO), which would change its charging structure.
Critics have slammed the move as a ‘power grab’ designed to extract more money from river residents, with fees for river work licences – including balconies – surging by over £10,000 per property per year in the last decade.
At a public inquiry that began last week, residents accused the PLA of using its unchecked powers to impose extortionate charges.
ABUSE OF POWER
Simon Anthony, a retired chartered accountant from Cubitt Wharf, called it ‘an abuse of power,’ claiming the PLA has been levying excessive fees for balconies, rainwater outfalls, and disused structures classified as ‘commercial works.’
Abel DuCloux from Roneo Wharf questioned the legitimacy of charging for balconies that merely overhang the river, not touching the water or riverbed. He highlighted the inconsistency, with neighbours paying wildly different sums for identical balconies, adding: “The PLA can get away with this because they are a monopoly and answer to no one.”
James Haas, representing Oliver’s Wharf, revealed that balcony charges there have jumped by over £10,000 since 2016, warning that if the trend continues, fees could hit £65,000 in 20 years.
The PLA defended its actions, insisting the HRO is about modernising outdated legislation, not balcony fees. A spokesperson said they remain open to discussions with affected residents.
The inquiry follows a public consultation in 2021, with the final outcome set to determine how much power the PLA will wield over riverside properties for years to come.
