WHO SHOULD YOU VOTE FOR?

Only you can decide that.

Your vote is your voice, and it should be guided by what matters most to you. Your priorities may include healthcare, education, social inclusion, policing, the environment, the economy, farming, access to outdoor spaces, amongst others.

Political decisions impact every aspect of our lives and, as paddlers, one of the most visible impacts is restrictions on access to blue spaces and the quality of these spaces when we are able to access them. The number of issues at stake in an election can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time voters. If you’re unsure where to begin, why not ask your candidates what they will do to help you get on the water.

THE SITUATION IN WALES

• Wales has over 10,000km of rivers, but only around 27km have a public right of navigation.
• Only a handful of the thousands of hectares of inland water in Wales (Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water alone manages 91 reservoirs) allow paddlesport access.
• It is estimated that less than 3% of blue spaces in Wales are accessible without fear of challenge, confrontation, or confusion.

The benefits of increased access to paddlesport are numerous; more activity, improved cardiovascular health and muscle strength, greater confidence and social connection, enhanced environmental stewardship, and a low-impact form of exercise, suitable for older adults. 

ACCESS TO BLUE SPACES AND THE WELSH GOVERNMENT

Paddle Cymru recognises the unsustainability of the current access situation in Wales. The lack of clarity in the law, lack of public awareness of existing agreements or arrangements, and differences between recreational water users have led to a situation where many people are put off paddling due to the fear of confrontation and confusion over legality.

Since 2008, the Welsh Government, and organisations commissioned on behalf of the Government, have made various policy proposals including: a change to Voluntary Access Agreements (VAAs), expansion of the Countryside Rights of Way (CRoW) Act to include waterways, the introduction of a river user licence, a Welsh equivalent of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act, and the designation of flatwater spaces for recreation.

However, concerns over the costs of access policy, legal difficulties and potential disputes between different types of river users have been cited over the years as reasons for the lack of progress in implementing a right of access to blue spaces in Wales.

A LOOK ACROSS THE BORDER

Despite the claims of some that the goals of increased access to waterways are unrealistic and unattainable, precedent from Scotland would suggest otherwise. In 2003, the Scottish Parliament passed the Land Reform (Scotland) Act, giving the legal right to non-motorised access to most land and inland water. This right is built on responsible use – summarised by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code:

• Respect the interests of others
• Care for the environment
• Take responsibility for your own actions

If Scotland can enjoy fair, responsible access to blue and green spaces, why can’t Wales? This election is your chance to help bring about change.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR LOCAL CANDIDATES

If access to outdoor spaces and environmental protection matter to you, consider asking your prospective Members of the Senedd:

1. Will your party commit to introducing legislation that expands public access to Wales’ green and blue spaces during the next Senedd term?
2. How will you ensure equitable access to outdoor spaces for all communities, including those from underrepresented backgrounds?
3. What will your party do to clean up the environment and protect our waterways?
4. How will outdoor recreation be supported as a tool for public health, education, and economic development?

There are some well-informed manifestos produced by other groups which may also help you to decide on any additional questions about access or water quality that you may wish to ask.

The Waters of Wales blue space manifesto is available in English and Welsh.

Afonydd Cymru champion Wales’ inland waters and call for improved water quality and future protection of our waters. Their manifesto is also available in English and Welsh.

YOUR VOTE SHAPES WALES

Whatever you’re passionate about, your vote plays a crucial role in shaping the Wales we want to live in. And if you care about our rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and coast – if you believe that everyone should be able to connect with nature safely, responsibly, and without barriers – then make sure your candidates know it.

This is your Wales. This is your election. Use your vote.

MORE INFO

Senedd Election www.tinyurl.com/3vkk3sps

Waters of Wales - Bluespace manifesto: www.tinyurl.com/5cfcv5yc

Afonydd Cymru - Manifesto: www.tinyurl.com/5embt8tv

Surfers against Sewage manifest English and Welsh

Outdoor Alliance Wales Manifesto Bilingual