The Challenge of Access

Wales boasts approximately 10,800km of rivers and canals, but less than 3% offers an undisputed right of navigation. This limited access contrasts with widespread proximity to blue spaces for most residents. While the Welsh Government has acknowledged these challenges, formal changes have yet to materialise.

Efforts such as the Countryside Rights of Way (CRoW) Act 2000, petitions, protests, and government consultations like 2017's Taking Forward Wales’ Sustainable Management of Natural Resources highlighted the urgency for reform. Public awareness of the health and well-being benefits of access to nature, both green and blue, adds momentum to this cause.

Rising Participation

Paddlesports are more popular than ever. The latest Watersports Participation Survey revealed that 7.5 million people across the UK paddled, up significantly from 2020. In Wales, the Sport Wales School Sports Survey showed a dramatic rise in paddling participation among school children—from 8.6% in 2013 to 26% in 2022.

Despite these numbers, paddlers still face challenges accessing waterways freely and sustainably. This growing interest underscores the need for fair, balanced solutions that respect both recreation and conservation.

Education and Sustainable Paddling

Canoe Wales recognises the potential impact of increased paddlers on wildlife, landowners, and local communities and other waterway users. Educational initiatives, including the promotion of the Paddler's Code (developed in collaboration with Paddle UK) aim to foster sustainable paddling practices.

Advocacy and Partnerships

We represent our membership on many groups and forums and strive to raise the issues that we face getting on to the water. Canoe Wales has representation on the following groups to raise the profile of access:

• National Access Forum Wales - a membership of nearly 40 member organisations representing landowners/managers, countryside access groups, public bodies and voluntary sector organisations. The forum does not have a legal status but the level and range of representation of its members means that it can influence policy development with Welsh Government.
• Outdoor Alliance Wales - a single coalition representing the shared values and interests for the whole of the outdoor recreation, learning and adventure activity sector in Wales. It calls on government to improve the access provision in Wales including that to inland water.
• Outdoor Activity Sector – A Cross Party Group, made of members of the Outdoor Alliance group. Chaired by a Member of the Senedd (MS) with other MSs as members. The group connects directly with Welsh Government through the MSs that form part of the membership.
• Wye Navigation Committee - The Wye Navigation Advisory Committee (WyeNAC) was established by the Environment Agency under the Wye Navigation Order 2002. This group (membership of which is defined under the Order) comprises of a forum nominated from a broad and comprehensive list of representative groups. The WyeNAC plays a vital role in assisting the Environment Agency in balancing the interests of the various user groups whilst protecting the unique nature of the river.
• Canoe Wales is committed to advocating for improved access to inland water. We will continue to liaise with the relevant government departments and push awareness of the challenges surrounding access to the Ministers in positions of influence. This is all with the objective of resolving the question of access once and for all. We also work with the National Parks and local authorities to seek local based access opportunities where possible.

Check out these organisations web pages to see the minutes of the various access discussions.

The Path Ahead

Looking toward the 2026 Welsh Senedd elections, Canoe Wales will continue to work with partners, government bodies, and local authorities to advocate for policy changes that support fair access to inland waterways. By raising awareness and championing sustainable practices, the organisation aims to secure long-term solutions for paddlers across Wales.