EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This assessment considers the potential impact of a disabled sailing programme at Havant Thicket, referencing long-standing operations at many comparable UK reservoirs and relevant planning policy frameworks.

PRECEDENT AND BACKGROUND - Adaptive sailing has operated successfully at all major UK reservoirs, large and small, for over six decades, demonstrating that inclusive use has neither impaired local environments nor conflicted with biodiversity management.

PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS - The DSA proposals align with national and local policies advocating inclusivity, equality of access, and enhancement of community recreational amenities. The reservoir’s current planning permissions do not restrict adaptive sailing, and similar schemes have faced no substantive objections.

FUNDING - The Disabled Sailors Association are considered ‘the subject matter experts’ on sailing for disabled people and have realised many similar facilities, so could manage the complete facility and possibly the funding of the project.

ENVIRONMEMTAL BACKGROUND - Evidence from similar size reservoirs and even smaller ones confirms that adaptive sailing, utilising electric support craft and removable plastic pontoons, does not cause erosion or water contamination, nor adversely affects fish or bird populations.

SIZE - The evidence shows that reservoirs of all sizes, including several much smaller than the Thicket at 160 ha, such as Ardleigh (120 ha), Derwent (148 ha), and Carron Valley (151 ha), as well as slightly larger examples like Chew Valley (188 ha), Hanningfield (190 ha), and Ardingly (198 ha), have each successfully managed boating activities in harmony with their surrounding environments for many years.

OPERATIONAL FACILITIES - The Existing site infrastructure (space, access, parking, and utilities) meets all requirements for the proposed facility integrated with minimal impact to the landscape and environment.

TRAFFIC AND ACTIVITY MANAGEMENT - Adaptive sailing involves planned, supervised sessions for small groups, usually scheduled and supported by community transport. This approach minimises site traffic and does not attract mass spectators.

ECOLOGICAL STEWARDSHIP - Adaptive sailing organizations (e.g., Disabled Sailors Association) often undertake environmental stewardship activities, including litter removal, wildlife monitoring, and shoreline care and added security measures.

LOCAL FACILITIES - While there are numerous sailing clubs locally, none are able to offer disbled people safe regular dinghy sailing, lack of facilities or restrictions even tidal restrictions prevent this.

BOATS AND WATER ACCESS - The boats used cannot capsize or sink, they require a minimum of 1 meter of water to sail in so cannot get near a shore line or shallows to disturb birds or wildlife, a plastic pontoon is required for embark and disembark.

RISK MANAGEMENT - Industry-standard controls ensure all operations use non-toxic materials, zero fuel or chemical input, and strict environmental codes of practice.

CONCLUSION - Disabled sailing at Havant Thicket Reservoir constitutes a low-impact, high-value community asset, compatible with conservation, planning, and social inclusion objectives. The project is deliverable at little or no cost to stakeholder's under expert stewardship/partnership, within a robust framework of environmental accountability and a tried, tested and proven system over the last three decades.

END OF EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

This report presents a structured assessment of the environmental implications arising from the proposed introduction of disabled sailing activities at Havant Thicket Reservoir. The purpose of this evaluation is to provide a clear evidence base to support informed decision making, ensuring compliance with environmental policy frameworks and best practice in sustainable land and water management.

In addition to examining the potential ecological impacts, the report systematically addresses and responds to all formal objections and concerns received to date. By doing so, it aims to demonstrate that the proposed initiative has been subject to rigorous review, balancing the protection of environmental assets with the advancement of inclusive recreational opportunities.

Drawing upon evidence on these matters from similar disabled sailing facilities across the UK and considering the design and operational practices of disabled sailing organisations in general, this report concludes that such activities can be introduced in a manner fully compatible with the needs of the Stake Holders, environmental, conservation, and ecological objectives.

There is ample evidence to show that sailing for disabled people not only works in harmony with the environment but is a real asset to the Stake Holders of the water and local area. (Annex 1 to 13)

Providing recreational access to water bodies for individuals with disabilities promotes inclusively and community engagement to a section of society often overlooked at planning stages or implemented by well meaning but ill experienced persons.

Sailing for disabled people on reservoirs is well established and data is available dating back for over 65 years with definitive proof of reservoir activities with Royal yachting Association (RYA) sponsored trimaran at Farmoor Reservoir in 1980. (Appendix 1)

The proposed introduction of disabled sailing aims to offer safe, supportive, and environmentally responsible opportunities without compromising the integrity of the local ecosystem.

1. WHY SHOULD THERE BE SAILING FOR DISABLED PEOPLE AT THE RESERVOIR

a. The evidence shows that ‘enthusiast’ clubs, such as Disabled Sailing Clubs, are a great benefit and an asset to Local Communities, Marginalised Groups, Water Companies, Conservation and Environmental Organisations.

b. According to the Office of National Statistics the 2021 Census reported Havant a deprived area with 35.4 per cent, 18,946 households, as deprived. A superb outdoor recreational facility would be great benefit for mental health and social mobility and the community as a whole.

c. Club members will be enthusiastic unpaid ‘wardens’ of the area who will be very keen to see that rules and regulations are adhered to.

d. The nearest accessible inland dinghy sailing for disabled people is some 1 hour travel away and is over subscribed. (Appendix 2)

e. Despite many sailing clubs in the catchment area there are no suitable disabled dinghy sailing facilities available. (Appendix 2)

f. Precedents have been set at other reservoirs and are very successful. (Annex 1 to 13)

g. The Disabled Sailors Association are considered ‘the subject matter experts’ on sailing for disabled people and have realised many similar facilities, so could manage the complete facility and possibly the funding of the project. (Annex 14)

h. The Disabled Sailors Association provides facilities for a great many local disability organisations and Local Government Services (some are listed in this document) who will support the request to allow sailing for disabled people on the reservoir. (Annex 14)

i. The PR value to the Portsmouth Water Company and the Councils of providing such facilities are worth consideration.

j. There is ample time to research, risk assess, develop documentation and procedures and have them in place for the opening of the reservoir.

k. All this could be achieved at little or no cost to the Stake holders and of significant value to all involved.

2. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND STEWARDSHIP

a. Disabled sailing activities are typically conducted by organisations committed to environmental care. The use of purpose-designed dinghies and non-invasive docking solutions ensures minimal environmental footprint. These organisations often enhance local stewardship through, free of cost to authorities:

b. Regular litter collection

c. Bank and shallows maintenance

d. Volunteer monitoring of water conditions and wildlife

e. Collaboration with local councils and water companies

f. Reservoirs such as Hanningfield, Rutland Water, and Grafham Water demonstrate how long-term coexistence between sailing and conservation is not only possible but often mutually beneficial. (Annex 1 to 13)

3. IMPACT ON BIRD LIFE - FINDINGS FROM COMPARABLE SITES

a. Rutland Water - The Rutland Water Nature Reserve Annual Wildlife Report 2022 indicates robust bird populations, including record numbers of wetland birds and successful breeding of ospreys. The report attributes this success to effective management and monitoring, even with ongoing recreational activities like sailing. (Annex 6)

b. Grafham Water - Managed by the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Northamptonshire, Grafham Water supports approximately 170 bird species annually. The coexistence of sailing activities and rich bird life suggests minimal disturbance when activities are appropriately managed. (Annex 7)

c. Expert Opinion - Ecological studies suggest that waterfowl can habituate to non-threatening, slow-moving boats, especially when activities are confined to deeper waters, thereby minimising disturbance to shore birds and nesting areas. (Annex 8)

4. IMPACT ON FISH LIFE - OBSERVATIONS FROM ESTABLISHED RESERVOIRS

a. Hanningfield Reservoir: This reservoir supports both recreational fishing and sailing activities. It maintains a nationally important population of Gadwall ducks and significant numbers of other waterfowl, indicating a healthy aquatic ecosystem. (Annex 9)

b. Rutland Water - The reservoir is stocked with brown and rainbow trout and hosts a variety of coarse fish species. The presence of diverse fish populations alongside recreational activities suggests that such uses can coexist without detrimental effects on fish life. (Annex 10 and 11)

5. POLLUTION RISK ASSESSMENT

There is no evidence from the numerous other reservoirs that sailing causes measurable pollution and evidence that sailing clubs add to the maintenance and protection of the environment.

a. Boats and Equipment - DSA sailing dinghies are constructed from non-toxic, inert materials and are designed to be non-capsizable and unsinkable, reducing the risk of water contamination. (Annex 2)(Annex 14)

b. Docking/pontoon Materials - Floating docks, such as Rotodock systems, are made from environmentally safe, non-degradable polymers. They are free from paints, metals, and preservatives, eliminating the risk of leaching harmful substances into the water. They are lightweight and easily removed or relocated as needed. (Annex 1)

5. HUMAN ACTIVITY

Water Entry – DSA dinghies do not capsize or sink and are accessed from a pontoon, there is no requirement for individuals to enter the water at any time, thereby minimising potential pollution from human activity.

6. WATER QUALITY

Sailing programs for disabled individuals, when managed with environmental safeguards, do not detrimentally affect reservoir water quality. Evidence from operational practices and water quality monitoring demonstrates that regulated sailing activities maintain water purity through several key measures:

7. WATER QUALITY MONITORING

Regular testing at reservoirs with sailing programs shows "no impact from recreational boating" on chemical or biological water quality indicators. This aligns with findings that sailboats lack the sediment-disturbing propellers and wake turbulence linked to nutrient resuspension in motorised vessels.

8. NIL CHEMICAL INPUTS

a. Non-motorised sailing produces no fuel spills or exhaust emissions – a critical distinction from power-boating, which contributes 380–600 million liters of fuel discharge annually.

b. Programs like Hanningfield Sailability use electric support boats with overnight charging, eliminating hydrocarbon pollution risks associated with traditional engines and all washing and cleaning facilities are contained.

9. INVASIVE SPECIES PREVENTION

Mandatory boat inspections and cleaning protocols prevent aquatic contamination and there is no evidence of aquatic plants or animals that can harm treated drinking water quality after implementing these measures. The Broads Authority’s Green Boat Mark certification requires Eco-sensitive hull coatings and waste disposal practices, further reducing ecological risks.

10. OPERATIONAL BEST PRACTICES

Leading programs combine: Phosphate-free cleaning products, Contained hull maintenance areas, Low-wash hull designs to prevent bank erosion, Structured waste disposal systems and comprehensive policies and risk assessments.

11. ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT

a. Organisations like Hanningfield Sailability coordinate with water authorities and environmental agencies to align operations with reservoir protection goals. This partnership model ensures sailing activities adapt to evolving climate challenges like algal bloom risks. (Annex 3 and 4)

b. While motorised recreation can increase turbidity and pollutant concentrations, sailing’s passive nature and modern management frameworks demonstrate compatibility with water quality preservation. Ongoing monitoring and protocol enforcement remain essential, but current evidence confirms well-regulated sailing programs for disabled users do not compromise reservoir water purity.

12. FREE ENTHUSIASTIC POLICING

In addition to formal environmental safeguards, sailing enthusiasts play a vital voluntary role in protecting and monitoring the reservoir environment. As regular users with a deep appreciation for the water and surrounding habitats, sailors often act as informal stewards, reporting any signs of pollution, illegal dumping, or invasive species to the relevant authorities. Many sailing clubs organise regular shoreline clean-up events, removing litter and debris at no cost to the reservoir or land owners. Their ongoing presence on the water allows for early detection of potential environmental issues, such as algal blooms or wildlife distress, enabling prompt action to be taken. This collective vigilance and proactive care from the sailing community provide a valuable, cost-free layer of environmental protection, helping to maintain the reservoir’s water quality and natural beauty for all users.

13. ACCESSIBILITY AND SOCIAL IMPACT

Currently, there is a lack of inclusive sailing facilities in the region. Introducing disabled sailing at Havant Thicket Reservoir would address an unmet community need - Encourage responsible engagement with nature and foster a sense of ownership and care for the environment among participants their family, friends and carers. (Appendix 2)

14. IMPACT ON FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS

a. Evidence indicates that sailing activities tailored for disabled individuals have minimal impact on freshwater ecosystems, particularly when compared to other recreational water uses.

b. Low-Impact Nature of Adaptive Sailing: Adaptive sailing programs for disabled individuals typically involve small, non-motorised boats, scheduled sessions, and limited participant numbers. These characteristics inherently reduce environmental disturbances, such as noise, wave action, and shoreline erosion.

c. Comparative Environmental Impact: A global meta-analysis of water-based recreational activities found that boating and shore use have significant ecological impacts, especially on invertebrates and plants. However, the study emphasizes that the intensity and management of the activity play crucial roles in determining environmental impact. The ‘footprint’ of sailing for disabled people on reservoirs is small enough to be difficult to measure but strenuous measure can be taken to make the benefits outweigh the impact by a very large margin.

d. Management and Mitigation: Proper management practices, such as designated access points, controlled scheduling, and environmental education, can further mitigate potential impacts. These measures ensure that adaptive sailing programs operate within the ecological carrying capacity of freshwater bodies.

15. TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORT CONSIDERATIONS

a. Accessible sailing programs are designed for individuals with physical and/or cognitive disabilities. These programs typically involve:

1. Pre-booked, small-group sessions.
2. Supervised sailing under trained volunteers or staff.
3. Purpose-built, low-speed vessels designed for safety and minimal environmental impact.
4. A support ratio that ensures orderly scheduling and quiet site operation.
5. Low Participant Turnover: Unlike open-access clubs, disabled sailing programs operate on scheduled slots, limiting the number of visitors to manageable levels.
6. Carpooling and Support Vehicles: Many attendees arrive via shared or specialised transport (e.g., community mini buses, adapted taxis).

b. These programs often foster positive relationships with local communities, promoting inclusively and environmental responsibility rather than causing disruption.

c. Comparison with Other Users: Site traffic from disabled sailing is significantly lower than activities such as open swimming, jogging events, or cycling groups often permitted at reservoir parks.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS - NORMAL SAILING CLUB - DISABLED SAILING CLUB

16. SITE ACTIVITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

a. Minimal Disturbance: Adaptive sailing boats move slowly and are powered by wind or low-power electric motors, generating no noise or pollution.

b. Non-Intrusive Scheduling: Sailing sessions are typically limited to daylight hours, with restricted timetables designed to respect local wildlife routines.

c. Launch and Shore Facilities: Infrastructure is kept simple, often limited to a small pontoon and secure storage, with no need for large buildings or artificial lighting.

e. Environmental Stewardship: Organisations such as DSA incorporate environmental education and conservation into their programs, encouraging protection of wildlife habitats.

17. PRECEDENTS

It is significant to note that all the major reservoirs across the UK currently provide sailing facilities for disabled people. These long-established precedents demonstrate that such inclusive recreational use has been successful without detrimental impact on the environment, wildlife, birds or aquatic life. (Annex 5)

Engagement with reservoir management and local communities in past projects has shown:

• Strong community approval when presented with clear schedules and environmental guidelines.
• Recognition of the social value and inclusively of offering disabled people access to meaningful, independent outdoor activity.
• A shared interest in preserving tranquility while enhancing accessibility.

19. FUNDING

The DSA, as the proposer, boasts an exemplary 30-year track record of independently funding its projects and bringing ambitious initiatives to fruition. Throughout this period, the DSA has cultivated excellent and enduring relationships with UK grant-making trusts, philanthropic foundations, and high-net-worth individuals, securing substantial support for its mission. These partnerships have enabled the successful delivery of multiple high-profile, multi-million-pound projects across the UK.

The organisation’s funding expertise reflects a rare level of flexibility and resilience: it is equally adept at structuring collaborative funding packages with charitable trusts, Sport England, and the National Lottery, as it is at leveraging private philanthropy and direct investment from committed individuals. The DSA’s record of success in this area demonstrates both its credibility with funders and its capacity to adapt ownership or contractual arrangements to meet wider stakeholder requirements.

While projects of this nature frequently secure backing from national funding bodies such as Sport England and/or the National Lottery, the DSA also stands ready to fully underwrite the project independently if required—ensuring delivery without financial uncertainty. This proven ability to draw on diverse, trusted funding sources sets the DSA apart as an organisation uniquely positioned to deliver projects of national significance and lasting public value.

20. PLANNING PERMISSIONS

The Thicket shares the same environmental and operational characteristics as reservoirs where planning consent has been granted for similar facilities, and there is no evidence to suggest that the current proposal raises new or significant planning issues. Indeed, many of the key matters commonly raised through this process — including land use, water safety, ecology, traffic impact, and visual appearance — have already been comprehensively addressed and resolved under the original planning consent for recreational use of the site. The additional infrastructure required for disabled sailing is modest in scale, sensitively designed, and operationally compatible with the existing environment.

The introduction of dedicated disabled sailing facilities at The Thicket represents a logical and proportionate extension of the site’s existing recreational use. It is wholly consistent with comparable developments at other UK reservoirs where inclusive, accessible watersports infrastructure has been successfully delivered, supported, and celebrated as contributing to national policy on health, equality, and community wellbeing.

21. STAKEHOLDER INVOLVEMENT

The proposal is an opportunity to unite a broad spectrum of stakeholders with shared interests in sport, health, accessibility, and the environment. These include:

• Planning and statutory authorities: the local authority planning team, Natural England, the Environment Agency, and where relevant, the Canal & River Trust or water management body.
• National sports and funding bodies: Sport England, the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), and the National Lottery.
• Local government and community: parish and district councils, disability forums, residents’ associations, and schools seeking inclusive sport opportunities.
• Specialist advocacy groups: local and national disability organisations, health charities, and veterans’ associations with interests in rehabilitation through sport.
• Landowners and operators: reservoir managers, environmental stewards, and contractors responsible for the safe, ongoing operation of the facility.

Experience from other sites indicates that these groups typically respond positively to inclusive projects, recognising the broad social, health, and community benefits. Early dialogue with stakeholders has already revealed strong support in principle, not least because the scheme delivers against statutory equality duties, public health strategies, and long-term recreational objectives already embedded in local development plans.

22. POLICY ALIGNMENT AND BENEFITS

This project clearly aligns with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) emphasis on promoting healthy communities, ensuring accessibility for all, and making effective use of previously-approved land and facilities. It advances local authority obligations under the Equality Act 2010 by tackling barriers to participation in sport for disabled people, and it complements regional strategies on physical wellbeing, mental health, and outdoor recreation.

In planning terms, the proposal is straightforward, proportionate, and low risk. In social terms, it is transformative, unlocking a proven model of inclusive sporting participation that delivers measurable benefits across health, education, wellbeing, and community cohesion.

For these reasons, the application represents not only a compliant and deliverable scheme, but an exemplary case of inclusive development that embodies the spirit of national and local planning policy.

23. CONCLUSIONS

The introduction of disabled sailing on Havant Thicket Reservoir is unlikely to have a detrimental on any concerns raised to date. Historical data and real-world examples indicate that such initiatives often lead to improved stewardship of natural resources.

With appropriate management and collaboration with the Stake Holders disabled sailing can be an environmentally sound and socially valuable addition to the reservoir’s recreational offerings.

Sailing programs for disabled individuals do not introduce significant traffic or disruptive activity to reservoir sites. Instead, they offer a controlled, meaningful use of the water that aligns with conservation goals and community well-being. With thoughtful planning, stakeholder collaboration, and a focus on minimal environmental footprint, such initiatives enrich public resource use without compromising nature or neighborhood peace.

The key areas under consideration relate to:

• Approved Plans
• Appropriate Facilities
• Scope to Expand Facilities
• Planning Permissions
• Funding

We hope the following information will help clarify the position and support a positive way forward:

a. APPROVED PLANS

We understand that updating the ‘approved plans’ may require some time and co-ordination. However, we believe this is a practical step that can be integrated into the project’s planning phase. It should not be seen as a barrier to progress but rather a necessary and manageable part of the process and could be a completely separate process.

b. APPROPRIATE FACILITIES

Experience from many other reservoirs across the country shows that appropriate facilities for inclusive sailing can be successfully delivered, with long-standing positive results. There is strong precedent to show that Thicket Reservoir can follow this established model with equal success. With careful management if would be possible to incorporate a sailing facility within the current planned utilities and facilities.

c. SCOPE TO EXPAND FACILITIES

The Thicket Reservoir site offers substantial space and flexibility. We are confident that a small-scale, purpose-built facility for disabled sailing, carefully designed to complement the environment, would integrate well without impacting other amenities, ecological features, or public access.

d. PLANNING PERMISSION

Over the past 40 years, similar facilities have routinely received planning permission from various local authorities. The type of development proposed – involving 10 dinghies, 2 electric safety boats, and a modest clubhouse for up to 20 people, aligns closely with permissions previously granted for comparable sites and purposes.

e. CONTEXT AND REQUEST

DSA research has now identified 114 reservoirs (out of a total of 273) across the UK where sailing is currently permitted. So far, we've found no compelling reason why Thicket Reservoir should be excluded from this broader, inclusive approach to water-based recreation.

In light of this, and with a shared goal of increasing access to the outdoors for all, we kindly ask that you reconsider the DSA’s proposals for Thicket Reservoir. We are very willing to work closely with your team to ensure all required permissions and standards are met while delivering lasting benefits for the local community.

Thank you again for considering this request. We remain hopeful for a positive outcome and are happy to provide any further details that may assist in the decision-making process.

24. RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Agree a contract with the Portsmouth Water company to build and operate a sailing facility for disabled people. This can be based on established working agreements from existing facilities.
2. Agree on a funding plan and ownership of the facility.
3. Agree who and how planning applications will be presented.
4. Proceed with Implementation: Support the introduction of disabled sailing with appropriate oversight.
5. Monitoring Program: Establish a voluntary monitoring scheme for water quality and wildlife, in collaboration with local conservation bodies.
6. Community Engagement: Promote environmental education and stewardship among sailing participants.
7. Review and Adapt: Conduct regular reviews to ensure continued harmony between recreation and conservation.
8. Develop a Code of Practice: Include guidelines for noise control and Eco-friendly maintenance procedures.

25. PROPOSALS OVERVIEW

A thoughtfully designed building that harmonizes with the surrounding locality, set within a secure compound for boat storage discreetly screened by trees and shrubs.

It is significant to note that all the major reservoirs across the UK currently provide sailing facilities for disabled people.

These long-established precedents demonstrate that such inclusive recreational use has been successful without detrimental impact on the environment, wildlife, birds or aquatic life. (Annex 5)

ANNEX 1 - ROTODOCK

PONTOONS: Rotodock pontoons – Environmentally friendly and flexible in use

ANNEX 2 - DINGHIES

Purpose designed and built by the DSA, dinghies that cannot capsize or sink and can be sailed by any type of disabled person with 'plastic' unpainted construction so no deterioration (pollution) in water.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT THE BOATS USED NEED 1.5 METERS OF WATER TO SAIL SO PHYSICALLY CANNOT GET NEAR TO ANY SHALLOWS THAT BIRD AND AQUATIC LIFE USE.
WEBSITE LINK - Disabled Sailors Association

ANNEX 3 - HANNINGFIELD RESERVOIR

Hanningfield Reservoir is just one great example of what can be achieved to benefit the community and the Water Company and also positively impact the environment and conservation. A large 25,500-million-litre pumped storage reservoir located between Billericay and Chelmsford in Essex. It has a surface area of 352 hectares and is owned and operated by Essex and Suffolk Water. The reservoir is part of a 402.9 ha biological Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Originally the Essex and Suffolk Water company were not going to allow sailing or angling on the new Hanningfield Reservoir but were persuaded to allow angling as an experiment which was well managed and very successful. It took some time and effort to gain permission for sailing but it was introduced as an experiment in 2013. It too was, and is, very well managed and is now one of the best disabled sailing centre’s in the UK, possibly the world. Both organisations are promoting and protecting the environment and conservation. Two teams of enthusiastic volunteers looking after the interests of the Water Company free of charge!

WEBSITE LINKS
Hanningfield Water Body
Hanningfield Waterside
Hanningfield Sailability

ANNEX 4 - HANNINGFIELD SAILABILITY

Quote "we have been operating since 2013 at this beautiful reservoir. They provide people with a disability the opportunity to sail on this delightful expanse of water in the heart of Essex. Hanningfield Reservoir is a large non-tidal area of open water with shore side facilities for storage of boats and equipment. Now, with the full backing of RYA Sailability, Chelmsford Borough Council and Essex and Suffolk Water we have an RYA qualified instructor available, training opportunities for volunteer helpers and are very successful indeed".

ANNEX 5 - A SELECTION OF SAILABILITY RESERVOIRS

All the major reservoirs in the UK have facilities for disabled sailing - 6 examples here and others can be 'Google'ed.

ANNEX 6 - RUTLAND WATER RESERVE WILDLIFE REPORT

ANNEX 7 - GRAFHAM WILDLIFE REPORT

ANNEX 8 - NATURE SCOTLAND DISTURBANCE REPORT

ANNEX 9 - HANNINGFIELD RESERVOIR WIKIPEDIA

ANNEX 10 - RUTLAND WATER WIKIPEDIA

ANNEX 11 - ECOLOGICAL IMPACTS RECREATIONAL WATERSPORTS

ANNEX 12 - HANNINGFIELD SAILABILITY

ANNEX 13 - RUTLAND SAILABILITY

ANNEX 14 - DISABLED SAILORS ASSOCIATION

APPENDIX 1 - Challenger Trimaran

The data about the Challenger Trimaran’s history, when it was built, by whom, and for whom, comes primarily from reputable sources including the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, the Challenger Class Association, and authoritative publications like Yachts & Yachting. These sources detail its original design by Rod MacAlpine-Downie in collaboration with Diana Campbell, construction by Cheesman Rollo Ltd. in 1980, and its delivery to the disabled section of Oxford Sailing Club at Farmoor reservoir, with sponsorship from British Petroleum and the Royal Yachting Association Seamanship Foundation.

APPENDIX 2 - Local Disabled Sailing Facilities

Supporting opportunities for all sailors is important, so here is an overview of the local facilities and their current accessibility for people with disabilities.

LANGSTONE - Langstone Sailability is a welcoming club with over thirty years of experience providing sailing opportunities for people with a range of physical, sensory, and mental disabilities. The team offers a fleet that includes accessible boats and helpful volunteers dedicated to making sailing enjoyable for everyone. Club amenities feature a wheelchair-accessible lift and changing facilities, making visits more comfortable for participants.

EMSWORTH - Emsworth Sailing Club provides social sailing primarily for its members, who currently experience a long waiting list of around 180 people. The club has shown commitment to accessibility by adding a disabled toilet and an elevator for wheelchair users to access the clubhouse. Despite these improvements, there are no specific Sailability programmes or dedicated adaptive boats for disabled sailors at Emsworth at present. A separate organisation, Sailing Therapy, previously offered inclusive sailing from Northney Marina but does not appear to be active currently.

THORNEY ISLAND - The Army Inshore Sail Training Centre (AISTC) offers a range of courses and accessible accommodation mainly for military personnel. Although the premises are accessible, the boats and activities are not adapted for civilians with disabilities. The adjacent Thorney Island Sailing Club similarly does not provide specialist adaptive equipment or tailored sailing for people with additional needs.

CHICHESTER - There is no designated Sailability Centre in Chichester. Cobnor Activities Centre offers some accessible outdoor activities, including sailing, and has facilities for those with disabilities. However, it is not a specialist Sailability Centre, and most boats and infrastructure are not equipped for sailors with significant mobility needs. Tidal access also affects availability and safety.

PORTSMOUTH - Several organisations in Portsmouth offer accessible sailing experiences, though not in dinghies:

 Disabled Sailors Association (DSA), Port Solent: Offers wheelchair-accessible yachts with adaptive controls for day sailing; does not provide dinghy sailing.

 Wetwheels Solent, Gunwharf Quays: Specialises in powerboat trips for wheelchair users, not sailing dinghies.

 Gwennili Sailing Trust, Port Solent: Runs monthly day sails onboard accessible yachts but not in dinghies.

 Andrew Simpson Centre Portsmouth: Provides some inclusive youth sailing and vision-impaired adult courses. However, not all boat types are suitable for every disability, and tidal restrictions apply.

 Additional Inclusive Clubs (Hardway, Tudor, Portsmouth Sailing Clubs): Offer semi-accessible facilities, but currently lack suitable adapted boats for all types of disability and are also affected by accessible facilities tides.

Summary - While there are pockets of support, fully accessible, reliable, small-boat sailing for disabled sailors is not currently available within easy reach of Havant. The nearest specialist options are Sussex Sailability with tidal and access restrictions and Testwood Sailability, both of which offer more dedicated programmes but are farther afield and also have severe restrictions on use.

This whole document was presumed correct at time of preparation and has copyright©
it is the research, views and personal opinions of the individual Mike Wood MBE
and prepared only for the Disabled Sailors Association
and may not be used, copied or in any way allowed to be used without his written permission.

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