Urgent.  The Thames Regional Rowing Committee (TRRC) have advised that they will be reviewing the use of coaching launches at their next meeting.

As members of SW London rowing clubs we have the privilege of rowing on a particularly beautiful part of the river Thames. However, this is frequently challenged by coaching launches turning the water into a maelstrom, which then becomes far less pleasant and at times dangerous, particularly to smaller boats such as singles and pairs.  A single coaching launch can disrupt the water for dozens of other rowers for a considerable amount of time, although they may be coaching far fewer than those who are affected.

Due to the relaxation of Lockdown and small craft being allowed back on the river, it has become very apparent that water conditions have improved greatly, which has many benefits for not only rowers and paddleboarders but fishermen, houseboat residents and even the local wildlife seem happier.

We have complained amongst ourselves for far too long about the ever increasing numbers of coaching launches and how some are inconsiderate/oblivious of their resulting wash and we believe that before crews return in large numbers, now is an ideal opportunity to reconsider their use on the Tideway. Whilst we fully accept that there is an important role for coaching launches, that does not mean that there should be no part of the river that is not coaching launch free, for at least a short while.  

We therefore urge TRRC and every club that uses this part of the river to take steps to limit the use of launches at certain times.  For example, it would appear sensible to limit their use above Kew Bridge at a suggested time of first light to 0900 at weekends.  If such a restriction were put in place there would be a small stretch of the Thames that could be enjoyed by rowers and others who do not wish to be overwhelmed by wash but at the same time this would be a minimal inconvenience to coaches as they could easily stay below Kew or change their outing times to later.  

Please give us your support by signing this petition and passing it on to your rowing friends.  Thank you for your support.