Concern about tree in river Yare from Thorpe St Andrew woman

A Thorpe St Andrew woman, who lives by the Yare between the Townhouse and Rivergarden pubs, said the tree came down in early February.

It fell into the water during storm conditions and has blocked two-thirds of the river's width, greatly reducing access for all vessels. 

The woman, who asked not to be named, said Broads Authority rangers soon cleared parts of the tree and placed hazard markers around it but have since failed to fully remove the obstruction - despite saying they would early last month. 

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"It has created a real chicane where our canal boat is moored up," she said. "Rowers from the Yare Boat Club are having a really difficult time getting past.

Only a short distance is provided for vessels to pass through (Image: Newsquest)

"And while our boat has not yet been hit, spring and summer are on the way and soon there will be holidaymakers in hire boats coming down the river who are not as careful as others."

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A Broads Authority spokesman explained that efforts to remove the tree were placed on hold due to consistently high water levels and unstable ground at its base. 

The tree is blocking two-thirds of the river after falling early last month (Image: Newsquest)

They said a recovery will be attempted again when "conditions are more favourable", but there is a serious concern it may come too late.

"Ours is a strong boat but we don't want people fending off it," the woman added, saying no buoys or protection has been provided in case of a collision. 

"We pay for the mooring and it has a right to be there without being struck. Eventually a cruiser will come down here and cause some real damage."