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As the summer heat intensifies, a striking report reveals that nearly 75% of riverbanks across England are inaccessible to the public. The Right to Roam campaign has unveiled alarming statistics, urging authorities to reconsider access rights to vital waterways as climate change and rising temperatures prompt more people to seek outdoor relief.
A Significant Barrier to Access
A comprehensive study conducted by Right to Roam found that 71% of riverbanks along major rivers and their tributaries lack any adjoining access or rights of way within 100 metres of the water. This troubling statistic holds true across the nation, from the scenic landscapes of Cornwall in the south to the northern reaches of the Tweed, which flows through Scotland. Lewis Winks, an environmental social scientist with the campaign, emphasised the pressing need for public access to rivers, stating, “Access to rivers should be a basic right, yet the vast majority remain off limits. As we continue to experience extreme heat, it’s vital the public are able to draw from the benefits that water brings.”
The report also highlighted the absence of a statutory right to access the water itself on 96% of rivers in England and Wales. This legal grey area has led to conflicts over activities such as swimming and paddling, with many landowners asserting control over these natural resources. Consequently, a significant portion of inland waters, including reservoirs and lakes, are largely treated as off-limits to the public.
Campaigners Demand Action
In light of these findings, campaigners are calling upon Angela Eagle, the newly appointed Environment Secretary, to initiate a long-promised consultation regarding access rights, as noted in a green paper on access to nature. As part of this initiative, they are advocating for the introduction of a right to responsible access to both water and land in the next King’s speech.
Kate Rew from the Outdoor Swimming Society expressed a vision for the future where rivers in England are not only accessible but alive with activity. “Being part of the natural world makes us healthier, happier and more alive,” she remarked. “The work of restoring our rivers begins by reconnecting people with them.” Rew’s sentiments reflect a growing movement that seeks to foster a relationship between communities and their local waterways.
Regional Disparities in Access
The report also revealed stark regional disparities in river access. For instance, in the Severn Middle Shropshire catchment area, a staggering 90% of riverbanks are devoid of any public access rights. In contrast, the New Forest catchment offers slightly better access at 49%. These figures highlight the urgent need for a more uniform approach to improving public access across the country.
Notably, the lack of access is so pervasive that many long-distance walking routes are named after rivers they cannot actually follow. The Severn Way, which stretches between Shrewsbury and Telford, often veers more than 800 metres away from the river itself. Similarly, the majority of the Test Way, a 44-mile (71km) trail, does not run alongside the river it is named after.
Government Response
In response to growing concerns, a spokesperson for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs acknowledged the government’s commitment to enhancing access to nature and the countryside. They referenced plans to deliver nine new national river walks, along with other initiatives aimed at increasing public engagement with green spaces. However, critics argue that these measures fall short of addressing the fundamental issue of access rights.
As the debate continues, one thing remains clear: the accessibility of England’s waterways is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention.
Why it Matters
The plight of inaccessible riverbanks raises profound questions about public rights to natural resources and the importance of green spaces in our lives. As climate change fosters more frequent heatwaves, it is crucial for individuals to have safe, legal access to water for recreation and well-being. The current restrictions not only hinder community enjoyment of these natural treasures but also disconnect people from the ecosystems that sustain them. Advocating for equitable access to our rivers is not just about enjoying a swim; it is about fostering a healthier, more engaged society that values and protects its natural surroundings.
