MDL adds 18 barge and narrowboat berths at Penton Hook Marina

MDL Marinas has announced plans to create 18 additional berths for barges and narrowboats at Penton Hook Marina on the River Thames. 

The marina’s existing X Pontoon will be reconfigured with nine new 14-metre angled pontoons. These will provide 18 berths designed to accommodate barges and narrowboats measuring up to 20 metres in length. 

MDL says the project is intended to meet continued demand for berthing on this section of the Thames while making more efficient use of the marina’s existing infrastructure. Completion is scheduled for August, with the new berths expected to become available from mid-August. 

The berthing project is being accompanied by a refurbishment of the marina’s shower and washroom facilities, which are used by berth holders and visiting boaters. 

The work includes upgraded fittings, new flooring, improved heating, energy-efficient LED lighting and refreshed interiors. The exterior of the buildings will also receive new timber cladding and redecoration. 

Earlier this summer, Penton Hook Marina launched Fresh Off the Hook, a waterfront street food initiative featuring a changing selection of independent food vendors at weekends. 

According to MDL, the initiative is intended to provide an additional social attraction for berth holders, visitors and members of the local community. 

MDL describes Penton Hook as one of the UK’s largest inland marinas. It provides berthing and boatyard services, with access to the River Thames and cruising routes towards Runnymede, Windsor and the wider Thames Valley.