River Access Campaign

Access to rivers is a concern for us all; even wading in a river that has no access could mean that you are committing trespass.

The purpose of the Rivers Access Campaign is not only to raise awareness of the access issue on inland waterways in England and Wales but to bring about a change.  The campaign is being undertaken by the British Canoe Union (BCU) on behalf all members of the public.

Facts:

• Only 2% of rivers in England and Wales have Public access
• The public do not have access along 65, 000 kms of rivers in England and Wales
• Whoever owns the land along the river (the riparian owner) also owns the property rights to the river bed. They don’t own the water itself, only the land it passes over.
• If a river doesn’t have a public right of navigation and you haven’t got consent from the riparian owner, you’re committing trespass by paddling or even wading in it.
• Nearly all the most beautiful inland rivers are not accessible to the public.
• Canoeing is an increasingly popular recreation, and is not socially exclusive
• Canoeing is an affordable means of getting “on the water” for everyone, especially young people, families and the retired.
• Providing greater access to the rivers will enable a healthier and fitter nation as canoeing and other water sports are very much about participation.

For more information check out http://www.riversaccess.org