Why is there a campaign?

In England and Wales, unlike elsewhere in the world, the public cannot assume there is an automatic right to have access to rivers. People are incredulous when they are made aware of this situation. The campaign is to secure this right as a matter of public interest. In the UK, Scotland already enjoys that right.

 

Research has revealed that prior to 1830, it was generally accepted the public had a historical right of access to rivers. Legal opinions since have continued to diminish this position and created a lack of clarity for such a right.

 

Who is the campaign for?

 

The campaign is not just for canoeists. It is for all members of the public who share the view that a legal right for access to and along water would provide enormous recreational, educational and economic opportunities.

 

A right of access will provide certainty for the future of water related sport and recreation. The campaign has gained support from many interest groups and organisations who seek more access to enjoy the natural water environment - swimmers, anglers, walkers etc.

 

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 Canoe England 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.

·         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. 

·         Watersports and other waterside recreations are increasing in popularity and clarity and certainty of access is needed.

 

We have been given the right to roam but not the permission to paddle!!

The Rivers Access campaign policy is to continue:

 

·         to investigate the existence of, and seek the restoration of, historic rights of navigation where they exist

·         the campaign for a statutory right of access to inland waters in England, if required   

The RAC promotes the need for access to, and along, waters and not for free access.  Canoeists and other users pay licences for navigations such as the canals, River Medway and other managed waterways.  We are not campaigning to stop paying these licences as everyone recognises that money is needed to look after these waterways. We are campaigning for clarity and certainty of access to and along all waterways taking environmental matters into consideration.