Robert Parton | President of British Marine | ICOMIA Podcast

In this ICOMIA Podcast episode, Ben Taylor speaks with Robert Parton, owner of Aqueduct Marina and President of British Marine, about the evolving economics of inland waterways. From building a 150-berth marina into a fully integrated, one-stop canal boat hub, to successfully lobbying government on business rates reform, this conversation explores the commercial realities behind UK inland marine infrastructure.They address funding pressures on the Canal & River Trust network, the impact of canal closures on tourism and boat sales, and why industry associations remain critical for policy influence. For marina operators, investors, and marine trade leaders, this is a timely discussion on resilience, investment strategy, and protecting a national leisure asset.Key Points:Marinas must diversify to remain commercially resilient.Collective lobbying protects marine businesses from policy risk.Canal infrastructure funding underpins long-term industry growth.EliteMarinas supports this series of ICOMIA Podcasts.