Waterways and Environment Charter
Principles and proposals for Government Action on access to and along inland waters for canoeists and other interested parties.
The Charter calls on political parties to develop an integrated package of measures that will further secure and enhance sustainable public use of the waterways.
The canoe is a traditional craft used throughout the world for exploring wilderness areas and quietly observing wildlife and flora. It causes no erosion, noise or pollution, and leaves no trace of its passing. Canoeing at appropriate water levels is an environmentally benign activity and causes no damage to fish stocks.
Canoe England acknowledges responsibility to take reasonable measures to safeguard the environment for both the present and future generations.
Yet today we continue to be faced with a lack of clarity and uncertainty about being able to use inland waters. Under 4% of our rivers have undisputed public rights. New challenges threaten the use of some of our publicly owned areas.
Read the Waterways and Environment Charter
Copies will shortly be obtainable from our e shop for free along with other campaign materials here
Access Policy
The word “access” includes access to and along linear waterways, the coast and also access to specific water sites and appropriate sporting facilities. The provision and improvement of access for canoeing in all its forms is very much encouraged by Canoe England. The overall objective is to increase the number of canoeing opportunities and the introduction of new legislation to give certainty for a right of access to inland waters and the coast.
Paddlers are encouraged to enjoy water responsibly in ways that are compatible with the conservation of the environment and wildlife.
The Waterways and Environment Operations Group (WEOG) replaces the Access Policy Group (APG) and is responsible for the operational and strategic planning, policies, guidance and implementation for access and the environment in England. The group reflects the changing nature of the roles and responsibilities of the Waterways and Environment Dept. They now engage with a wide range of activities, extending into regulation, legislation, liaison with agencies, navigation authorities and other organisations; plus the growing area of environmental management.
Members of the Waterways and Environment Operations Group are: –
Vic Brown – Chair of WEOG
Richard Atkinson – Waterways and Environment Manager
Chris Hawkesworth – BCU Planning and Facilities Manager
Kevin East – Waterways and Environment Manager
Tamsin Phipps – Government and Public Affairs Manager
External Representative – To be co-opted as required
CE Waterways Advisors (Central and South) – To be co-opted as required
Position Statement for Voluntary Access Arrangements
Where public access to inland waters has not been recognised Voluntary Access Arrangements (VAA’s) are a means to gain access for canoeing. The CE Position Statement on Access Agreements details Canoe England’s position for these arrangements that exist on a few rivers, together with the IPSO Mori evaluation of the Pilot VAA schemes for the Rivers Mersey and Waveney.