BWML participates in TYHA Gold Anchor Award Scheme

Earlier this year, British Waterways Marinas Ltd (BWML) took the decision to participate in the Gold Anchor Award Scheme.  As a large inland marinas group, this is an important tool which highlights their services and facilities and allow customers to make an informed judgement on what to expect at each site.

The group are one of the first to pass through the newly designed rating system which includes a berth holder survey, mystery shop and an assessment by a Gold Anchor assessor. Over a two week period, two members of the Gold Anchor team visited each marina to meet with the manager and assess the facilities and services. The 16 participating marinas turning out a complete range of results from 1 to 5 Gold Anchors.

This is a tremendous result for BWML, proving that their marinas meet industry standards and that some sites are offering excellent levels of services and facilities while others are providing a basic but safe and secure location. The range of facilities caters for most boater’s tastes.

Derek Newton, BWML Director, says “BWML are very pleased to have taken part in the TYHA assessment.  We have a range of marinas across the country and whether graded at 1 or 5 anchors we will work hard and endeavour to please and support our customers.

TYHA are to be congratulated in the delivery of their new international award scheme on marine standards and BWML fully intend supporting these aims to help improve standards across the industry.  It is our intention to commit to continued improvements and obtain higher TYHA Gold Anchor recognition going forward. “

Top of the ratings is Sawley marina, Nottinghamshire which also acts as the BWML head office.  One of the UK’s largest inland marinas with 600 berths, Sawley offers everything expected of a 5 Gold Anchor marina.  Located on the River Trent, it is easily accessible with a good range of facilities onsite.

Flying a 1 Gold Anchor flag is Lemonroyd marina, based on the Aire & Calder Navigation.  Although not fully manned, staff are available through the Hull office and can be easily contacted.  Lemonroyd scored extremely high on their mystery shop report, showing a very high standard of customer service.

BWML marinas cater for all tastes and budgets and can offer the discerning boater a variety of marinas set in tremendous locations.  Whether it be the tranquillity of Whixall marina at the end of the Llangollen Canal, White Bear marina situated on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, or the hustle and bustle of a central London location such as Poplar Dock and Limehouse.

TYHA General Manager, Gareth Turnbull, said “Throughout this process the BWML team have shown that they are committed to improving standards and meeting the needs of boat owners on the Inland Waterways network. I would like to congratulate Derek and his team on their commitment and investment in facilities.”

This group of assessments brings the total number of Gold Anchor rated marinas on the Inland Waterways to 30. To find out more visit www.which-marina.com.

Back to News