London residents protest rising balcony license fees

Residents along the River Thames are expressing growing concerns over increasing fees for balcony licenses and other river-related charges. These fees can include costs for rainwater gullies and old cranes atop buildings, which residents argue are unfair and inconsistent. Abel Ducloux has lived in his riverfront apartment since 1985. Back then, his annual fee for the balcony was £50, but now it has risen to £254. Meanwhile, fees can vary considerably among different apartments, leading to fears about rising living costs. Abel worries that unpredictable fee hikes could hurt future rentals or sales of his property. James Haan has faced similar issues. He became building manager at Oliver’s Wharf and discovered the license fees had skyrocketed. His building's fees, once around £200 per flat, jumped to £13,000 this year, around £565 per flat. He believes the increases are unfair, especially as they pertain to decorative cranes that aren't used anymore. Other residents, like Simon Anthony, have experienced sudden, massive charges. He returned home to find his management company had paid £20,000 in fees without informing owners. Simon argues this lack of communication and transparency is a serious issue. The Port of London Authority (PLA), which oversees river management, is facing scrutiny. Critics demand clearer fee structures and fair treatment for all residents. In response to public outcry, the PLA announced plans to have an independent surveyor assess its fee system. They have also paused new fee reviews for balconies while this review is conducted.