This week’s discussion point from me is about our experiences of access (or not!) on our waterways. There’s been a lot of online chatter recently surrounding the ‘Clear Access Clear Waters’ campaign which seeks fair, shared, sustainable open access for all. It’s a sad fact that less than 4% of rivers in England and Wales have a clear or uncontested right to paddle and perhaps even more so considering the effects of the global pandemic on our mental health and well-being at a time when we potentially need access to the water the most.
So:
What are your thoughts on this?
Were you aware of these access issues?
What does access to water mean to you?
Have you ever experienced any difficulties gaining access? If so, what?
What solutions would you suggest?
If you are a landowner yourself – what are your thoughts on this looking at it from the other side?
For further information on the campaign and how you can get involved head to: