Trafford Council shuts down so-called ‘hobo boat’ after reports of antisocial behaviour

Manchester magistrates have approved closure orders covering both a narrowboat locally referred to as the “hobo boat” and the disused wharf where it was moored, just north of Edge Lane Bridge.

The court heard that the boat and surrounding wharf had been occupied by a group believed to be using class A drugs, prompting serious concerns from Trafford Council’s community safety team and Greater Manchester Police. Over recent weeks, authorities received numerous reports of antisocial and criminal behaviour linked to the site.

Incidents included violent altercations, loud disturbances and fires being lit on the boat and nearby areas. Drug use was reportedly widespread, with discarded needles found in and around the vessel. Members of the public also raised concerns about intimidating begging and harassment, particularly affecting people using the nearby Metrolink park-and-ride facility.

Police were also alerted to a prohibited and dangerous dog roaming freely around the wharf and neighbouring streets. The animal has since been seized. 

Additional reports detailed shop thefts in the area, one of which involved an assault on a staff member, as well as an attack on an elderly relative who visited the boat to check on the welfare of one of the occupants. Large amounts of illegally dumped waste were also found at the wharf.

Further concerns were raised after the boat broke free from its makeshift moorings, which had been tied to trees. The drifting vessel blocked the canal, requiring emergency services to intervene.

James Parry, speaking on behalf of the council, told magistrates it posed an ongoing risk, particularly during winter storms. With the boat’s engine no longer functioning, it could not be controlled and had the potential to cause a serious collision on the canal.

Local resident, Max Balbach, said: “I’m glad the council have decided to do something about it. I used to walk my dog down right where the boat was but ended up changing the route I would take because of the types of characters that would be hanging around the boat.”

Magistrates granted full closure orders for both the boat and the wharf, with the backing of Greater Manchester Police and Peel Holdings, which manages that section of the canal. The vessel will be relocated to a secure location, while the wharf will be locked and placed under CCTV surveillance.

Trafford Council’s leadership said the action was taken to remove a dangerous situation and prevent further crime and antisocial behaviour, highlighting the close cooperation between the council and police as part of ongoing efforts to keep local communities safe.

Residents who have concerns about similar issues in their area are encouraged to contact the council’s Community Safety Team.