Houseboat on Surrey's Nicomekl River draws attention from residents and officials

A makeshift houseboat on Surrey's Nicomekl River has drawn attention from nearby residents and city officials. The floating structure, near Portage Park, appears to be a camper trailer mounted on a barge made from round containers and steel beams. People living nearby said they saw the craft assembled and launched with a crane. Some residents raised concerns about possible oil slicks in the river and the potential impact on fish spawning, while others questioned whether the structure is safe because it is tied to a rotting stump. The City of Surrey said it had already warned the owner and issued a parking ticket when the structure was on city land. The city said it will work with partner agencies, including Transport Canada, to address the situation and does not allow derelict or abandoned vessels on the river. Transport Canada said it recently became aware of the vessel and will follow up with the owner. Officials may inspect it to determine whether it meets marine safety and environmental rules under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.