Here's why this boat parked on Scarborough's Moorland Road is making waves

The rundown vessel on Moorland Road, off Dean Road, has been parked on the highway for almost a decade, say residents. But following recent maintenance works to the pavement, which have seen all vehicles but the boat being removed, its presence has sparked annoyance.

“It doesn’t move, it doesn’t do anything and when you’re trying to park you can’t park because of that,” said one resident.

Another one added: “Now that they’re redoing the road they’ve been moving it [the boat] from side to side when all the cars have had to go. How’s that fair?

“With the new kerb, [the road] is going to look lovely, why can’t that go?”

The Scarborough News understands that the owner of the boat, who also lives on Moorland Road, had approached his neighbours to inform them that his vessel, which he allegedly referred to as “an ongoing project”, would be parked there for two weeks. However, say residents, seven years have gone by since.

“It upsets me, it’s an eyesore,” added a resident.

According to Section 143 of the Highways Act 1980, local authorities have the power to remove non-motorised vehicles such as caravans, trailers and boats parked on the highway. After issuing a notice requiring the removal of the vehicle within 28 days, councils are allowed to intervene and remove the vehicle themselves, should the owner fail to comply with the requirements of the notice.

Highways area improvement manager Helen Watson, from North Yorkshire County Council, said: “We began carrying out footway resurfacing works on Moorland Road and local residents have been telling us they would like to see the boat and trailer permanently removed. Prior to this, we had not received any complaints.

“We are now investigating what options are available regarding their removal.”

The owner of the boat has been approached for comment.