A recent report has highlighted a significant barrier to public access across England’s riverbanks, with nearly 75% deemed off-limits for the general public. As record heatwaves become increasingly common, campaigners are pressing the government to take action and ensure that people can freely access these vital natural resources.
Access Denied: The Current Landscape
Data published by the Right to Roam campaign indicates that access to riverbanks remains severely restricted in England. The study examined 89 river catchments, revealing that a staggering 71% of riverbanks along main rivers and tributaries lack any adjacent access within 100 metres. This restriction applies uniformly across both urban and rural areas, with only 4% of rivers in England and Wales having a defined statutory right for public use.
Lewis Winks, an environmental social scientist involved in the research, stated, “Access to rivers should be a basic right, yet the vast majority remain off limits. As we continue to experience extreme heat, it’s essential that the public can enjoy the benefits that water provides.” He argues that the current situation is not only a limitation on recreational activities like swimming and paddling but also a missed opportunity for communities to connect with nature.
Campaigning for Change
In light of these findings, advocates are urging Angela Eagle, the newly appointed Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, to expedite a long-promised consultation regarding access to water bodies. The proposed discussions are to be included in a green paper on access to nature, with hopes that it will lead to a formal right of responsible access in the upcoming King’s Speech.
Kate Rew, a prominent member of the Outdoor Swimming Society, expressed her vision for the future: “In 20 years, I want to see living rivers across England, where people can swim, paddle, walk, and spend time by the water.” She emphasised the importance of reconnecting the public with rivers, suggesting that this relationship is crucial for both individual well-being and the health of our waterways. “The work of restoring our rivers begins by reconnecting people with them,” she added.
Disparities in Access
The Right to Roam report also uncovered alarming regional disparities in river access. For instance, within the Severn Middle Shropshire catchment, a remarkable 90% of riverbanks lack any form of access, while the New Forest catchment reports a slightly better, yet still significant, 49%. These figures highlight a troubling inconsistency in access rights that varies widely across the country.
Additionally, many established long-distance walking routes bear the names of rivers they do not adequately follow. Winks noted that sections of the Severn Way, for instance, can divert over 800 metres away from the river itself, illustrating the disconnect between these trails and the waterways they are meant to celebrate.
Government Response
In response to the growing demand for increased access, a spokesperson from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs stated, “This government is focused on restoring nature and ensuring pride in local communities, including access to green spaces.” They cite initiatives such as the introduction of nine new national river walks and a coast-to-coast route in the north of England as part of their commitment to enhancing public access to natural environments.
Despite these promises, scepticism remains regarding the effectiveness of these measures in actually improving public access to rivers. Critics argue that without substantial policy changes, the current access limitations will persist.
Why it Matters
As climate change leads to more frequent heatwaves, the need for accessible natural spaces becomes increasingly urgent. Riverbanks and waterways not only provide essential recreational opportunities but also play a vital role in community health and environmental sustainability. Ensuring that people can engage with these natural resources is crucial for fostering a culture of environmental stewardship and promoting public well-being. The fight for accessible rivers is not just about leisure; it is about reclaiming a fundamental right to connect with nature in a world where such opportunities are becoming alarmingly scarce.
