Work to maintain the Broads waterways will be cut by as much as a quarter after plans to make boaters pay more were met with criticism.

The Broads Authority has agreed a 5.9pc increase to its toll fees next year -  a lower amount than needed to cover the increased costs faced by the organisation.

It follows mounting backlash from hire boat firms and private boat users, who have complained the costs have risen too much in the last three years.

However, this will mean less money will be spent on services such as dredging - the clearance of mud and silt to keep the rivers and lakes navigable.

As much as £117,000 is expected to be cut from services.

People feeding the swans at Hoveton.People feeding the swans at Hoveton. (Image: Denise Bradley)

The number of hours rangers spend patrolling the Broads could also be reduced.

Speaking at a recent Broads Authority meeting, Dr John Packman, chief executive, said: "This has been a long and extensive process in making this decision.

"There will be a 24pc reduction in time spent dredging but over the last 15 years, we have largely done well keeping on top of it.

"We will require further reductions to services which will be brought back to the navigation committee in January once identified."

The proposed increases to toll fees in the Norfolk BroadsThe proposed increases to toll fees in the Norfolk Broads (Image: Broads Authority)

READ MORE: Boaters warn of 'onslaught of abuse' if huge toll hike goes ahead again in Broads

He added that boat users are frequently demanding more services like dredging be carried out.

But they are also reluctant to pay higher toll fees.

A Broads Authority ranger at the River Bure at HovetonA Broads Authority ranger at the River Bure at Hoveton (Image: Denise Bradley)

"The balancing act this year is between the level of charges against desires and wishes of improved services," he said.

"I think this year the balance has been struck. We will be taking £117,00 out of the system but this does mean the 5.9pc increase can be afforded."

He added that the BA is always looking at ways to reduce costs.

Members voted to approve the 5.9pc increase unanimously.

The BA is continuing to fight for fairer funding from the government but so far it has not received a response from the government.