Law could target reckless jet skiers
Rule will‘allow local authorities to have some control’
The jet skiers that use the stretch of water near Perth city centre do cause an issue with noise Cllr Chris Ahern
Jail sentences and fines could be introduced under proposed new legislation to clamp down on the dangerous use of jet skis in places like the River Tay in Perth.
People who flout the rules could face two years in prison and/or an unlimited financial penalty if prosecuted under the proposed change to the Merchant Shipping Act 1995.
The Department of Transport published a consultation this month and has proposed an end to a legal loophole that allows jet skis to operate outwith the law to protect the public and local wildlife from aggressive behaviour and noise by users.
The new law would see jet skis and other recreational craft, such as speedboats, be classified in the same terms as ships - making all users subject to national regulations.
Perth City Centre ward councillor Chris Ahern and Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser say they have been contacted by “irate” constituents in the Fair City over the last few years following the actions of some jet ski users on the River Tay during the summer months.
The politicians feel the new rules would allay local residents’ concerns over the disturbances caused by some jet ski users.
Both had previously called for a zoning system to be introduced in parts of the River Tay to clamp down on antisocial behaviour from jet skiers.
The proposed change in legislation will be applicable in all UK waters so sea, tidal rivers and inland waterways would all be within scope.
This would include the River Tay in Perth.
Councillor Ahern said: “I am glad to see the UK Government is taking seriously the issue of jet skis and the problems that a small group of them cause. We must remember that it is a small group that are the problem.
“The jet skiers that use the stretch of water near Perth city centre do cause an issue with noise and anti-social behaviour.
“The measures that will be put in place by adding jet skiers into the existing legislation will allow local authorities to have some control.”
Mr Fraser added: “We welcome this proposed change in the legislation.
“We will wait for Westminster to pass it but if it does so, it will address what has been a long-standing problem in Perth and other areas of Tayside.
“A balance has to be struck between jet ski users enjoying themselves and disturbance to local residents.
“There is a definite need for action and this could well be it.”