SC(3) - AIW27

Sustainability Committee

Inquiry into access to inland water in Wales

I am both a recreational kayaker and canoeist. I am also a member of the WCA, though mainly because I have to be order keep my coaching qualifications valid.

Over the years, the muddle and confused access situation to rivers in Wales has meant that I have done less and less paddling. Indeed, recently I have kayaked on more rivers in the Alps than at home in Meirionnydd. The prospect of conflict with landowners and/or fishermen just puts you off going out for what should be an enjoyable day. In terms of the economic impact for Wales, many English paddlers now organise trips to Scotland, where the access situation has been sorted out. I too would rather go paddling in Scotland than at home in Wales (and obviously take my money for food, accommodation, petrol, car parking etc. there too!).

It seems strange that in the face of scientific studies by the Environment Agency and examples of best practise in other European countries, that fishing clubs still want to ban all paddlesports from their waters. This attitude just seems to promote conflict, as instead of negotiating access (along with ideas such as "traffic light” water gauges & paying for car-parking) fishing clubs just put up a wall of resistance. This even extends to clubs like the Prince Albert denying well published facts, such as the Normal Tidal Limits on estuaries, such as the Mawddach, where I live. Yes there are irresponsible & ignorant idiots on both sides of the debate but at the end of the day, all sensible can people can only want cleaner, well cared for rivers & lakes and the opportunity to enjoy those places.

I am in agreement with the Petitions Committee's short inquiry into Access Along Inland Water, which has clearly highlighted the issues present and their recommendation that the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 provides a useful basis from which a Welsh model of legislation could be developed.

Yours faithfully,

David Roberts