Riverbanks Locked: 71% of England's Waterways Inaccessible

Approximately 71% of riverbanks along main rivers and their tributaries in England are inaccessible to the public, according to new data. This extensive lack of access spans river catchments from Cornwall to the Tweed, affecting both urban and rural areas. Furthermore, 96% of rivers in England and Wales lack a defined statutory right to the water itself, restricting activities like swimming and paddling.

Campaigners from Right to Roam are calling for urgent action from the new environment secretary, advocating for a promised consultation on access to nature. They seek to establish a right of responsible access to water and land through legislation. This push for access is highlighted by the public's need to benefit from water, particularly during extreme heat events, and the role it plays in fostering a connection for river restoration.

Despite government commitments to create national river walks, the effectiveness of these initiatives in increasing public access is being questioned. Regional disparities in river access are significant, with some areas experiencing up to 90% of riverbanks without access rights. This situation leads to walking trails being named after rivers they cannot follow, diminishing the intended experience for the public.