politics

Nearly 75% of Riverbanks in England Lack Public Access, Data Reveals

25 Temmuz 2026The Guardian

Nearly 75% of riverbanks in England are reportedly inaccessible to the public, according to recent data from the Right to Roam campaign. This lack of access spans river catchments from Cornwall in the west to the Tweed in the north.
Campaigners are calling for the government to establish a right of access to these waterways, especially in light of increasing heatwaves.
Access to natural spaces has been a contentious issue in England, with historical land ownership laws often limiting public enjoyment of the countryside. The Right to Roam campaign advocates for greater access to land and water, arguing that public health and well-being are at stake as climate conditions worsen.
The significant restriction on public access to riverbanks raises questions about environmental equity and the right to nature. As climate change leads to more frequent heatwaves, the demand for accessible natural spaces becomes even more pressing.

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This article reflects the views of the Right to Roam campaign and may not represent the government's stance on public access to riverbanks.