National Assembly for Wales- Inquiry into access to inland water in Wales
June 2010
The National Assembly for Wales Sustainablity Committee’s report was released on 16 June 2010 and is posted on the Committee’s web site at:
http://www.assemblywales.org/cr-ld8089-e.pdf
The Sustainability Committee made thirteen recommendations to include the introduction of a licensing system for unpowered craft on inland waters and the setting up of voluntary access agreements by landowners.
Canoe England notes and concurs with the statement issued by Canoe Wales.
Canoe Wales Statement in relation to the National Assembly for Wales Sustainability Committee’s report on Access to Inland Water in Wales
Canoe Wales is concerned that the report has explored this issue as a Canoeing vs. Angling debate rather than a careful examination of the wider interest and presenting solutions for the public’s use of water space in the future.
When the matter was presented to the Petitions committee the matter was examined in the light of public access to inland water. They also recognised and differentiated between the strategic mechanisms for securing access to water from its management. This is seen to be global best practise.
Rather than bringing clarity over a complex issue the report raises further questions and problems, together with the promise of additional bureaucracy for all users of water who simply want to enjoy their chosen sport and recreation.
The recommendations do not address the issues in relation to public access to inland water and will not influence the public to be more responsible yet alone more active in outdoor based recreation and tourism.
In the light of the report Canoe Wales believes that nothing has changed and in these circumstances that the situation in reality will remain the same as when the Petition process was first commenced.
Canoe Wales remains committed to solving the issue in the interest of the public.
Canoe Wales has and will continue to provide technical expertise to resolve this matter.
Call for 'right to roam' to help recession-hit towns
June 2010
Creating new public spaces from disused railway lines and forgotten canals could help regenerate urban areas hit by the recession, a think tank says.
More information
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8705079.stm
The diverse sport of canoeing has something for everyone regardless of age or ability.
Health benefits
The recreational aspects of canoeing match the government’s desire to encourage a healthy lifestyle change through the Change 4 Life initiative. Canoeing provides the opportunity for those who want to get fit outdoors rather than using an indoor gym.
Revitalising communities
Canoeing in both urban and rural areas leads to opportunities for employment, more inclusive communities, health benefits and of course a wide range of leisure opportunities.
The full report can be found at http//www.demos.co.uk/publications/resilientplaces
Tidal River Thames – Sewage discharges from Mogden Sewage Treatment Works, Isleworth
February 2010
Thames Water have arranged a trial for an email notification system to let canoeists, rowers and other water users know when Mogden Sewage Treatment Works is discharging any sewage which has not been fully treated into the tidal River Thames.
To receive updates refer to the link:
http://www.thameswater.co.uk/cps/rde/xchg/corp/hs.xsl/3644_9989.htm
Environment Agency Consultation - Craft Identification on the River Wye
Article Date: January 2010
The Environment Agency is the navigation authority for the River Wye where a public right of navigation extends from Bigsweir Bridge upstream to Hay Town Bridge. Historically, the River Wye was an important commercial waterway and today the boating on the river is mostly canoeing and rowing, with some passenger sightseeing boats operating around Symonds Yat.
The Environment Agency is the navigation authority for the River Wye where a public right of navigation extends from Bigsweir Bridge upstream to Hay Town Bridge. Historically, the River Wye was an important commercial waterway and today the boating on the river is mostly canoeing and rowing, with some passenger sightseeing boats operating around Symonds Yat.
Canoe England will be responding to the Environment Agency consultation on Craft Identification for the River Wye after gaining opinions from BCU colleagues and the canoeing community. Canoe England notes the Environment Agency discusses the options of a voluntary or a formal identification and registration scheme that could apply to all or parts of the River Wye to include the upper river and tributaries.
The Environment Agency want to take account of your views before they make any craft identification policies or decisions that may affect you.
The consultation documents can be viewed at
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/research/library/consultations/114670.aspx.
Closing date for responses 31st March 2010