Access To Inland Waterways Bill

This bill would change the rules about who can use inland waterways like rivers and canals in England and Wales. Currently, access to these waterways is restricted and varies by location. The bill aims to create clearer rights for the public to use waterways for activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. It would establish which waterways people can access and under what conditions. The government says this will give people more opportunities for recreation and exercise. Property owners and some water companies say this could affect their rights and create safety issues. The bill would also set up systems to manage access and resolve disputes between users and landowners.

• 1Creates new public rights to access rivers and canals for recreation
• 2Applies to inland waterways in England and Wales
• 3Establishes rules about which waterways can be accessed and how
• 4Sets up systems to manage access and handle disputes
• 5Affects relationships between the public, landowners, and water companies