NRA THAMES 66 Space to live3 space to play

A R e c r ea t io n St r a t eg y f o r t h e R iver T h am es

SPORTS council. NRA o N TENTS

TITLE FOREWORD AUTHORS ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY THE THAMES - A NATIONAL RECREATION ASSET 1.1 Managing the Thames: who is involved 1.2 National Rivers Authority 1.3 Sports Council 1.4 National Government 1.5 Local Government 1.6 Other Agencies

THE RECREATIONAL VALUE OF THE COUNTRYSIDE:- THE NATIONAL SCENE 2.1 Participation in Countryside Recreation 2.2 Water Related Sports Activities 2.3 Individual Recreational Activities 2.3.1 A ngling 2.3.2 Boating 2.3.3 Canoeing 2.3.4 Rowing 2.4 Other Water Sports 2.4.1 Sub-Aqua 2.4.2 Windsurfing 2.4.3 Waterski-ing 2.4.4 Personal Watercraft 2.5 Countryside Recreation 2.5.1 Walking 2.5.2 Cycling 2.6 Future Trends in Water Sports Participation 2.7 Countryside Recreation in the next 10 years

RECREATION ON THE THAMES: SETTING THE LOCAL SCENE

3.1 Thames Based Recreation - Club Activities 3.2 Casual Recreation on the Thames 3.2.1 Thames Path Visitor Survey

PLEASURE BOATING ON THE THAMES 4.1 Non-Tidal Navigation 4.1.1 Trends in Boating 4.1.2 Boat Movements 4.1.3 Factors Affecting Boat Traffic 4.2 The Tidal Navigation 4.2.1 PIA & NRA Responsibilities 4.2.2 Boating on the Tidal Thames 4.3 Who Boats on the Thames?

------ENVIRONMENT AGENCY-

11 7529 5. COMMERCIAL LEISURE ON THE THAMES 39 5.1 Recent History 39 5.2 Consulting Commercial Operators 39 5.2.2 Key Points from Survey 40

6. REVIEWING THE THAMES 43 6.1 AREA 1: THE UPPER THAMES - Source to Goring 43 6.2 Source to Lech hide 43 6.3 Recreational Use 45 6.4 Lech lade to Osney 47 6.5 Recreational Use 50 6.6 Oxford to Goring 52 6.7 Recreational Use 56 6.8 Planning Policies and Strategies for Leisure on the Thames 59

7. 7.1 AREA 2: THE MIDDLE THAMES - Goring to Staines 63 7.2 Recreational Use 73 7.3 Planning Policies and Strategies for Leisure on the Thames 78

8.1 AREA 3: THE LOWER THAMES - Staines to Techlingto)i 83 8.2 Recreational Use 89 8.3 Planning Policies and Strategies for Leisure on the Thames 93

9.1 AREA 4: THE TIDAL THAMES 97 9.3 Teddington to Putney Bridge 98 9.4 Putney Bridge to Tower Bridge 103 9.5 Tower Bridge to the Thames Barrier 108 9.6 Recreational Use of the Tidal Thames (Summary) 112 9.7 The Tideway: Planning Policies and Strategies for Leisure 115

FUTURE POLICIES FOR RECREATION ON THE THAMES 121

10.1 Sustainable Recreation on the Thames 121 J0.J.J The Balance between Recreation & Conservation 123 10.12 Wildlife Issnes§ 125 10.2 Enjoying Recreation on the Thames 125 10.2.1 Is the 'Thames Safe fo r Recreation? 126 10.2.2 Access fo r Recreation 129 10.2.3 Information 131 10.2.4 Facilities 132 10.2.5 Customer Sewices 133 10.2.6 Passenger Sewices 134 10.2.7 Piers 135 10.2.8 The H ire Craft Industry 136 10.3 Active Sports on the Thames 137 10.3.1 Recreational Conflict 138 10.3.2 Events on the River Thames 139 10.4 Angling 140 10.5 Motor Cruising 143 10.6 Rowing 150 10.7 Canoeing 152 10.8 Sailing 155 10.9 Scuba Diving 157 10.10 Water Sports Centres on the Thames 158 10.11 Cycling 160 10.12 River Thames Interest Groups l6l 10.13 River Thames Recreation Strategy - Implementation 162

REFERENCES 165 BIBLIOGRAPHY 166 O R E W O R D

The River Thames Recreation Strategy began with a partnership between the NRA and the Sports Council, both of whom have responsibilities to promote the use of the river for sport and recreation.

This philosophy of cooperation continued through extensive research and consultation with river users, Local Authorities and interested organisations, resulting in a Strategy which reflects the views, opinions and hopes of a diverse range of interests.

Despite the inevitable conflicts, the overriding message is the importance of achieving a level of recreational use which allows the river to flourish as a home to both wildlife and people. After all, it is the natural beauty of the Thames which is its principal attraction.

The Sports Council and the NRA will use this Strategy to influence both our own and others activity on the Thames. For us implementation will be via Catchment Management Flans, Regional Strategies for Sport, and in our day to day activities. We ask that Local Authorities use this document when preparing and reviewing Structure Plans, Local Plans, UDP's and Leisure Strategies. Governing Bodies of Sport are asked to consider it in the preparation of their Development Plans, and we encourage river users to act upon the policies, recommendations and actions which promote the safe sharing of the river, and enjoyment for all.

By producing this Strategy we are acting as a stimulus to future cooperation and partnership between everyone who wishes to see the Thames flourish, both as a natural resource and as a source of fun and relaxation. Let us all work together to achieve this, not only for ourselves but also for future generations.

Les jones Regional General Manager, NRA Thames Region

David Dolman Regional Director, Sports Council, Southern Region

Andy Sutch Regional Director, Sports Council, London Region.

_iv— U T H O R ' S

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Preparing a document which covers such a wide range of interests was a daunting task and one which has required time and support from many people.

The interest and enthusiasm shown by the river users, both commercial and recreational, proved to me that the Thames is one of the best loved places in the country. Many thanks to the clubs, Governing Body representatives, boatyards, and marinas who filled in questionnaires, gave interviews and responded to the consultation process.

Thanks also to the many local government officers and representatives of relevant agencies and interest groups who shared their experience and commented so comprehensively on the consultation draft.

It would be impossible to name everyone who has helped, but there are a few who I would like to mention. The Project Steering Group have not only guided the work but have supported me throughout the project. Many thanks to John Redmond, Paul Chambers, Paul Bedford, David Lawerence and in particular Don Vickers who listened, advised and supported me on a day to day basis.

I would also like to thank the many NRA officers who informed, advised, corrected, and commented on the consultation draft, in particular John Waters, Ann Symonds, Andrew Graham, and Brian Hughes.

Last but not least, thanks go to Eilaine, Lisa and Paula who have organised a vast amount of paperwork quietly and without complaint.

With such a diverse range of interests it has been impossible to completely satisfy everyone. I only hope that I have reflected all views and given satisfactory explanations to those whose demands have not been met. The publication of this Strategy is not the end but the beginning, heralding a new impetus for cooperation on the Thames.

Over the past 2 years I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the Thames, and have made many friends on the river. It has been lots of fun!

Eileen McKeever Recreation Planning Officer National Rivers Authority River Thames Recreation Strategy: M40 River Thames - Source to Barrier

County & Thames Region □ Boundary

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Green Belt

Urban Areas

River 1'hames

Motorway

'A* Road

SSSI

NRA National Rivers Authority Thames Region

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ECUTIVE SUMMARY

Planning for a Sustainable Leisure Resource Recreation on the Thames

Waterways have always been an integral The recreational use of the Thames is part of the way many people spend their not new. People have been boating, leisure time. Rowing, cruising, sailing fishing and walking along the Thames and fishing have been popular water for hundreds of years. It is home to sports for many years, but it is also for some 21,000 boats - cruisers, canoes, its aesthetic value that millions of people rowing eights, skiffs, punts and visit a waterside environment while at passenger boats. It is also an important leisure. Pubs, parks, and footpaths fishery for over 200 angling clubs and located along rivers, canals and on the numerous casual anglers. seafront are honey pots for visitors who Then there are the millions who walk, just enjoy being by water. picnic, fly kites and "river watch". For The demand for countryside recreation, them the Thames corridor is a series of and in particular opportunities for water parks where they can relax and enjoy based recreation, is increasing the countryside and the wildlife. significantly. Those who have Reconciling this myriad of uses is responsibility for managing the certainly a challenge, but of even greater countryside now have to ask: importance is the need to protect and * How do we satisfy recreational enhance the Thames, ensuring that it demands while conserving the flourishes as a natural resource which is countryside as a flourishing natural home to a diverse range of birds, plants habitat, on which the recreation and animals. This is important not only depends? for the ecology of the river but also for recreation, as its natural beauty is This issue of 'sustainability' is one of the fundamental to the popularity of the most important which the leisure and Thames as a leisure resource. tourism industries are having to consider at present. Achieving a level of Defining the recreational capacity which recreational activity which can be can be sustained by the natural resource sustained by the natural environment is the real challenge. Research which requires planning, management and measures the impact of recreation on a monitoring. The first step in this process changing natural resource, such as the is to prepare a strategy which Thames, has not yet been carried out. coordinates and guides the numerous, Until there is further research, answers as often conflicting, interests, and to advise to whether levels of activity are on the most appropriate course of sustainable will be based on the action. judgement of those who understand natural processes. This Strategy takes a As both a valuable natural resource and precautionary approach, aiming to one of the busiest waterways in Europe, ensure that at least the current water with a vast diversity of users who have environment is not harmed. different expectations, achieving a sustainable level of recreational use on The NRA and the Sports Council the Thames is a priority for all those recognise that the advice given in this involved in its management. document is based on a combination of historical data, current and future (rends, In 1992 the National Rivers Authority and and the advice of specialists. As methods the Sports Council initiated a project to of establishing recreational capacities prepare a Strategy for the Thames, which which are environmentally sustainable has the following aim: become available, the policies within this To produce a Strategy for the River Strategy will be updated as necessary. Thames and its corridor, which optimises its recreational potential, Why a Recreation Strategy for the Thames? while conserving and enhancing the The Thames and how it is used has ecological, landscape and heritage changed over the years. In general its value' recreational use has evolved without Although this Strategy document is the very much influence from river ultimate goal of the project, the process "managers". So why is there any need to of research and consultation has been interfere now? The whole philosophy of very important. It has raised awareness leisure is that it is time which is not of the importance of recreation on the managed, where individuals have a Thames, which will hopefully ease the choice. Why propose a Strategy to implementation of the policies and influence how people spend their action plans. relaxation time? Working in Partnership Tliere are several very good reasons why we need a strategy for recreation on the The last time an exercise like this was Thames, primarily the increasing undertaken the result was the Report of popularity and diversity of outdoor the Working Party on the River Thames activities, and the need to protect the Leisure Policy (Boating) 1980. The river environment on which they all depend. has changed over the past 15 years and An important factor is the management this document is the result of the NRA of conflict, both between active and Sports Council's wish to produce recreational use and the conservation of new advice on recreation to planners, the natural habitat, and between different users and managers of the Thames. Both recreational users. the NRA and the Sports Council view their role as that of coordinators, Many people enjoy the Thames but there researching and reflecting the views, are numerous others who have never needs and aspirations of all those experienced cruising, going through a involved with the Thames. lock, or just being by the river. Recreational facilities and access routes The riparian Local Authorities have a key to the Thames are not static. Some are role to play in both the preparation and lost and others are created as a result of implementation of this Strategy. Through changes in management style, economic their statutory planning responsibilities conditions and local influences. A they have pow'ers to affect the Thames coordinated approach to the recreational and its hanks. These Authorities will be use of the Thames will help provide invited to adopt policies within this optimal access for a wider section of the Strategy into Structure Plans, Local Plans, population. Unitary' Development Plans and Leisure Strategies, so influencing how the Thames is developed. Key influence groups are those who use These and other issues are discussed in a (lie river, either for recreation or total of 32 Policy statements. The key commercially. They will he most affected Policies which set the context for all by the policies Line! their ownership of recreational activity on the river are listed the issues and recommendations is below. crucial to successful implementation of the Strategy. Sustainable Recreation on the Thames (Policy 1) Others involved in the project include the numerous interested groups and 7he remote, rural areas of the Thames agencies such as English Nature, RSPB, will he protected from development which London Rivers Association, and the will affect its tran q u il nature. The Governing Bodies for the various sports enjoyment of these rural areas fo r using the Thames. recreation should he encouraged, through positive visitor management The Process which is sensitive to nature conservation The Strategy document includes a review and to the characteristic river valley of countryside and water recreation both landscape. nationally and locally. Much of the local In urban areas o f the river, open spaces information is based on primary research will be protected from development and and discussions with the representatives enhanced where appropriate. 'Ihe well of the various activities involved. It is established recreational use of the from this process of information Thames a n d its hanks should he gathering that the policies and encouraged by improving and promoting recommendations were formulated. The access to areas w hich are subsequent action plans are part of environmentally robust, making this an 'active' Strategy, giving 'Me 'Thames in London will be protected various organisations responsibility for as valuable open space and an important implementation. landscape feature. Access to a n d along The Issues and Policies the river banks will be improved and promoted where safe and The same issues recur again and again environmentally acceptable. throughout the policy section. They include: access; information; conflict Developments close to the Thames should between users; environmental protection reflect its special character, in terms of and awareness; recreational capacity; and height, scale and quality, enhancing financial resources. Other more specific rather than detracting from the river issues are: the number and location of landscape. moorings; visitor facilities, including toilets and refreshments; customer ’TJje management of the Ihatnes and its awareness among those who manage hanks should he coordinated to ensure and work on the river; the availability of that there is consistency and cooperation, slipways, provision of safety equipment with an clear understanding of and information; and the individual responsibilities, both am ong communications network between river river 'managers’ and the public. users and managers. The Balance between Recreation and routes and associated facilities and Conservation (Policy 2 ) sewices will include provision for the disabled. These will be promoted to Recreation and conservation interests relevant organisations and those with a must recognise each others importance, disability will be encouraged to enjoy the discuss issues where there may he conflict Thames. and he prepared to fin d a mutually acceptable solution. The recreational use Information for Recreation (Policy 7) of the Thames and access to it will not he All agencies involved with visitors to the created or promoted where it will cause Thames should seek to coordinate their irreversible, detrimental change to the information and publicity material, natural environment and river especially the provision and promotion of landscape. good visitor guides, information points and databases. Water Quality (Policy 4) Those who have responsibility for water Facilities for Recreation (Policy 8) quality will continue to work to The provision o f visitor facilities, m aintain, and where possible improve, including toilets, should be a priority as the quality of water in the Thames. they are a prerequisite fo r a good sewice Water Safety (Policy 5 ) to visitors to the Thames. C unent provision should be reviewed, a n d action All liver users and the generaI public will taken to fill in gaps where appropriate be encouraged to act in a safe and and acceptable, taking the local responsible manner when on or dose to environment into consideration. the river. Those taking part in water spoils should Where there is potential to negotiate a be aware of safety regulations with p lan n in g obligation in respect o f regards to their activity, equipment and development on or near the Thames, crew, and abide by the Codes of Practice through a Section 106 agreement (Town issued by their Governing Body of Sport. and Country Planning Act), this Swimming in the Thames will be obligation should be used where discouraged. appropriate to benefit the needs of recreational users o f the river a n d its Access for All (Policy 6) banks. The use o f the Thames a n d its banks fo r Good Service on the Thames (Policy 9) informal recreation, including walking, will be encouraged, and the resource Priority should be given to ensuring the maintained and managed to provision and delivery of a quality sewice to those who use the Thames a n d it banks accommodate appropriate activities for recreation. where there is potential and it is appropriate to do so. Developments along Managing Recreational Conflict (Policy 13) the Thames should include the river as a All river users should recognise that the fxjsitive feature, enhancing it where Thames is a shared resource a n d that fx)ssible, improving piiblic access and tolerance o f other activities is required. protecting historical views. Where it is possible and safe, access Conflict is best resolved by cooperation What Next? a)id river user's should understand the The next stage is to ensure that the activities of others and learn how to react policies are adopted, primarily by Local when they meet on the river, through Authorities, and within the NRA. novice training programmes which Although for one organisation to take explain other activities a)id provide responsibility for implementation seems guidance on the responsible use of the an obvious route, the most effective way river a n d bank. to ensure the policies are fulfilled is to convince all those concerned to adopt River User Groups (Policy 3 V the philosophy of the Strategy into their The system o f River User Groups will everyday thinking and operations. continue to be supported by the NRA and # I he PU\, and their role as the a vital This document will become an influential com m unications lin k between users a n d part of the NRA's Catchment Planning managers will be developed. process which provides a method of integrating and coordinating all the issues Implementation of the River Thames related to the water environment, and Recreation Strategy (Policy 32) translating them into action plans. The Implementation of the River Thames Catchment Management Plan will be one Recreation Strategy should be given way in which implementation of the priority by the agencies involved: Strategy will be monitored and reviewed.

* National Rivers Authority In 1996 it is proposed that a new * Sports Council (Southern, South East Environment Agency will take over the and Greater London Regions) responsibilities of the NRA, including the * Regional Councils for Sport and implementation of this Strategy which Recreation will play a vital role in ensuring that the * Riparian Local Authorities Thames continues to be managed as one * Port of London Authority of the most important resources for * Governing Bodies of Sport and Clubs outdoor recreation in Britain.

Cooperation is Better than Conflict Finally, this is a working Strategy. It is not cast in stone, nor has it l>een given a There are clearly no easy answers to m timescale. Implementation will be led by resolving the many conflicts that exist the partnership of the NRA and the between the various uses and users of Sports Council, working with local the river. This Strategy seeks to minimise Authorities, river users, interest groups these conflicts through better information and relevant agencies. They will listen to, and improved communication. Its role is influence, coordinate and encourage, to not to dictate blit to educate, encourage, ensure that the Strategy is implemented and influence those using and managing and the Thames continues to be 'home' the river to make the best possible to the millions of people for whom it is decisions for both the environment and such a source of adventure, fun and those who use the river for recreation. relaxation. E C T I O N

THE THAMES: A NATIONAL RECREATIONAL

ASSET

E C T I O N 1

THE THAMES: A NATIONAL RECREATIONAL ASSET

he changes in the Thames Thames from an industrial artery, to a recreational resource, used not only by corridor over the years reflect the the millions of people who live within developments of both the local the Thames Valley, but also by the vast Tand national economies, and the trends number of tourists who visit the area. in public knowledge and opinion. The The only exception to this is the lower intimate connection l~>etween the river reaches of the tidal Thames and the and its riparian corridor, including the estuary which functions as London's flood plain, has not always been commercial port, still the largest in the recognised or respected in decision UK. making.

The Thames has a variety of inter-re la ted The growth of recreation on the Thames has lx;en ad hoc, with sporadic advice strategic functions: from the various organisations involved. * As a source of water and for drainage. Obviously there is not an endless supply * As a conservation, wildlife and of space either on or around the ecological resource. Thames. The dilemma for those * As a recreational and tourist resource, managing the river and its corridor is both the river and its banks. how to encourage access while * As a major part of the urban fabric of conserving its natural heritage. towns and cities on the Thames, especially London. 1.1. Managing the Thames - Who is Involved? * As a transport route for passengers and One of the key functions of a Recreation freight, the latter being limited to the Strategy for the Thames will be to tidal Thames. coordinate the actions of the numerous There are numerous different organisations who are involved with its organisations with responsibilities for 'management'. managing and advising on these The NRA, County Councils, District and functions of the Thames, as well as the Borough Councils, the Port of London many different river users, some of Authority (FLA) and the Marine Safety whom have potentially conflicting views Agency all have direct, statutory on how it should be managed. responsibilities, many of which are Historically the River Thames was a overlapping and sometimes potentially major transport route used by many conflicting. The role of the FLA as the industries. Towns grew up along its Navigation Authority for the tidal Thames banks, particularly at crossing points. is described in Section 4. In addition These urban communities needed rest there are other government agencies and relaxation, but although the Thames who are involved with specific projects, was used for recreation, this was very’ such as the Countryside Commission on much a secondary activity. the Thames Path, the Sports Council on water and countryside sports and Developments in transport and changes recreation, and English Nature on the in industry in the last century have Thames Estuary Management Plan. transformed the primary role of the As well as the public sector there are the numerous voluntary organisations who recreational resource. (See Appendix 1 have an interest in the Thames, for for River Thames CMP programme). example the River Thames Society and The NRA has a number of initiatives and the River User Groups who, in the main, studies which have relevance to represent those who use the Thames. recreation on the Thames. Further details Finally, there are the landowners and are included in Appendix 1: commercial operators who live or * Thames 21 - A Planning Perspective operate their businesses on or beside the and a Sustainable Strategy for Thames Thames, and influence its use and Region (consultation draft published in management. September 1994); Coordinating the needs and views of all * Thames Environment Design Handbook of these vested interests is not an easy (1992); task but one which is very important if a consensus is to be achieved. This section * River Corridor and Ornithological describes the various roles of those who Survey of the Tidal Thames (available have most impact on the management of 1995). the Thames. 1.2.1. The NRA's Rec rea I io n 1.2. The National Rivers Authority • Guardians Responsi bilit i es of the Waterway The origins of the River Thames The NRA have a responsibility for many Recreation Strategy are in the 1989 Water aspects of river management. This means Act (Section 8/4), now embodied in the taking account of flood defence, water 1991 Water Resources Act, which gave resources, w'ater quality, fisheries, the National Rivers Authority conservation, recreation and navigation. responsibilities:

With such a wide variety of To promote the use of inland ay id coastal responsibilities, there are inevitable waters, and of land associated with such conflicts of interest. By adopting an waters for recreation purposes.' integrated approach to the management On a national scale the NRA has a of the river the NRA is aiming to resolve recreation strategy the principal aim of these conflicts, through the preparation which is to: of Catchment Management Plans (CMP). * develop the amenity and recreational Having reviewed the water-related values potential of inland and coastal waters of a catchment and identified problems and associated land. which need to be solved, the CMP w'ill set out a vision, a series of objectives Specific objectives are: and a list of actions for the NRA and * to maintain, develop and improve others with responsibilities for the water recreational use o f NRA sites; environment. The River Thames * to take account o f recreation proposals Recreation Strategy will form an relating to any NRA fu n c tio n ; important pan of the catchment management planning process, providing * to promote the use o f water and guidelines for the management of the associated land for recreation River Thames and its corridor as a purposes. As part of fulfilling these objectives the policies for the countryside and its NRA Thames Region decided to take a sustainability. In terms of recreation the strategic role. As the only organisation aims are: with responsibilities which cover the * to conserve a n d improve the Thames from its source to the estuary, it landscape, and encourage is in a unique position in terms of river opportunities fo r recreation. management. In 1994 the DOE published the 1.3. The Sports Council 'Sustainable Development - The UK The Sports Council are co-funders of the Strategy" which includes a chapter on Thames Recreation Strategy project. This leisure. The document suggests a interest stems from its overall framework for sustainable recreation, the responsibilities for sport and recreation. aims of which are: In recent years the increasing pressures * to maintain the quality of the on the countryside has generated interest environment in which leisure takes within the Sports Council on the use of place for future generations to enjoy; the countryside for sport. In 1992, following wide consultation, it published * to contribute to the health, well being a policy statement entitled: 'A a n d quality o f life o f those taking part Countryside for Sport'. in leisure activities without destroying The key policies set out in this document the natural resources upon which are: leisure depends; * to apply the principles of Sport fo r All * to ensure that leisure activities are a to the countryside; major means of creating awareness of, * to promote a strategic planning a n d appreciation for, the environm ent. approach to the provision of access to As part of its guidance for those involved natural resources, for the local in land use planning, the DOE have community and for visitors where issued Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) necessary; notes which set out Government policy * to encourage the production of on a number of issues. Those of most strategic plans for the development of countryside activities at national, local a n d regional level.

As part of fulfilling these objectives the Southern and Greater London Regions of the Sports Council have supported the development of a Recreation Strategy for the River Thames.

1.4. National Government: Department of the Environment The White Paper 'This Common Inheritance' sets out the Government's environmental strategy, including its re levy nee to recreation are PPG 17: Sport including water sports, where it places and Recreation (September 1991); PPG 7: particular emphasis on mooring The Countryside and the Rural Economy facilities:-Ib e re is a widespread shortage (January 1992); and PPG 9 Nature of mooring facilities for hoats hath on Conservation (October 1994). inland watenuays and oil the coast. Development plans may encourage the 1.4.1. PPG 17: Sport and imaginative use of redundant mineral Recreation workings, disused commercial docks and This PPG encourages Local Authorities to redundant agricultural la n d in close ensure 'that through the preparation of proximity to inland or tidal water. Such development plans adequate land and use can provide extensive new moorings water resources are allocated both for without undue detriment to local interest orga n ised sport and inform al rec real ion.' or the natural environment/ It also reminds those responsible for development control 'of the communities’ 1.4.2. PPG 7: 7Toe Countryside an d need for recreational space, to have the Rural Economy regard fo r current levels of provision and This PPG gives general policy guidelines deficiencies, and to resist pressures fo r the on the countryside. It provides the detail development of open space which behind the overall Government view conflicts with the wider public interest ’that the countryside should be safeguarded for its own sake and that PPG 17 does not prescribe national non-renewable and natural resources standards of recreational provision. The should be afforded protection’. Local Government recognises that Authorities are asked to determine more circumstances differ greatly from o n e ' specific policies that reflect the different area to another, and it recommends that types of countryside found in their areas. planning authorities draw up their own standards of provision based on local 1.4.3.PPG 9: Nature Conservation assessment of need, and include those This PPG sets out the Government's standards in their local plans. policies for nature conservation. It emphasises the importance of both It also suggests that 'localplan policies designated and undesignated areas for should take into account the needs of nature conservation and includes recreational tourists and where development control criteria, particularly appropriate encourage the development of for SSSIs and other sites with national facilities that benefit both visitors and and international designations. residents.' With regard to recreation taking place in This recommendation is reinforced sensitive areas PPG 9 suggests, 'Some through the Sport and Recreation SSSIs are seasonal in their sensitivity; Strategies produced by the Regional others can accommodate recreational Councils for Sport and Recreation, which activities without risk to their features of advise local authorities on priorities for sfx>cial interest. In some cases a n the provision of leisure facilities and Authority may be able to mitigate services. potential damage to its satisfaction by The PPG also gives advice for specific imposing conditions to regulate the sports and countryside activities proposed use’. 1.4.4. Regional Planning Guidance * identifies the River Thames as the The Department of the Environment has backbone of London's open space also issued planning guidance at a framework and as the premier Area of regional level. O f relevance to the Special Character. Thames is Regional Planning Guidance * recognises the importance of the river for the South East’ (RPG 9)” and for the as a heavily used sport a n d South West (RPG 10)’. In particular they recreational resource. encourage Local Authorities to promote and support initiatives to conserve, * stresses the importance of m aintaining restore and enhance river valleys and the a fid enhancing public access to the water environment. With regard to river. P articular attention is p a id to recreation and leisure, the guidance completion of the Countryside provides the following advice: Commission's Thames Path and where appropriate the London Walking ' facilities for recreatio)}, including Forum's Metropolitan Walks and sports a n d leisure activities, enhance Potential Green Chains. people's quality o f life, an d their development should he actively Also of relevance is LPAC's advise on encouraged where this is compatible Open Space and Leisure within London with the principles of sustainable which recognises that (he value of open development. space is not confined to leisure and recreation but has important educational, * the River Thames is identified as a n social, structural, cultural and amenity important recreational resource for the roles. As one of the most important open South East Region, providing many spaces in London, the Thames has a opportunities for informal recreation. major impact on the quality of life for There is, however, a need to strike a both residents and visitors. balance between all the conflicting pressures which impinge on the river. 1.4.5. Other Government initiatives include: * the Government places great value on * the Department of the Environment's the retention of recreational land and Task Force for the Thames Gateway amenity open space in urban areas. (formerly East Thames Corridor). This is particularly im portant fo r its contribution to the quality of urban * the Government Office for London's life. supplementary strategic guidance for the River Thames in London (due to The Government has asked the London be published in 1995). Planning Advisory Committee (LPAC) to * the Department of Transport's River undertake a review of London's strategic Thames Working Group - A Report planning framework. LPAC's 1994 'Advice into Transport on the River Thames on Strategic Planning Guidance for (1994)" London' has been submitted to the Government Office for London as a basis for revising regional planning guidance for the capital, With regard to the River Thames and recreation, LPAC's advice: 1.5. Local Government Council; and The London Borough of Richmond. 1.5.1. Local Authority Development This peripheral position of the Thames P lans within Local Authorities has led to it At a strategic level planning policy is set being forgotten in some areas, with the by County Councils who produce result that it has been given a low Structure Flans and Minerals Local Flans. priority. Subsequently its potential as a Policies in both of these Plans affect recreational resource has not been recreation on the Thames, in some areas investigated and the intimate relationship more than others. There are currently 6 between the river and its riparian riparian counties on the Thames within corridor often ignored. the study area (see Map 1 and Appendix 1). Some Local Authorities have taken a At a local level District and Borough decision to maintain the Thames in its Councils have a responsibility to set 'natural' state, i.e. flood plains used for specific plans for the area which they agriculture, with limited access for the cover. Local Plans are set within the public. Others have a more pro-active context of the Structure Plan blit are approach to recreation on and along the much more specific and detailed in terms river. These differing attitudes, and a lack of location. Unitary Development Plans of communication lx?tween neighbouring for the London Boroughs form both the Local Authorities, can cause Strategic and the Local Plan. There are a inconsistencies in how the river and its total of 37 riparian District and Borough corridor is ‘managed’. Councils on the Thames, in the study Leisure Strategies, which include area, including 14 London Boroughs (see management plans for sports which take all Maps and Appendix 1). place on the Thames, have been produced by a few Local Authorities. The 1.5.2. The Im p act o f Local Sports Council encourages the Government on the Thames production of these District-wide The River Thames forms part of the strategies for leisure to help coordinate boundary' of all of these Authorities, with opportunities for sport and recreation. only 4 having responsibilities for sizeable Some Local Authorities also produce areas on both banks of the river: Oxford Conservation Strategies, for both the City Council; Reading Borough Council; natural and built environment. Windsor and Maidenhead Borough 1.6. Other Agencies With Responsibilities for * 'Ihe Countryside Commission, who the Thames have responsibilities for landscape, There are several other agencies with promoting conservation and the responsibilities for. or an interest in the recreational use of the countryside. It is Thames. They include the following: implementing the creation of the Thames Path, a new long distance trail * English Nature, which has a statutory' along the river due to be opened in duty to conserve, maintain, and 1996. enhance the natural environment, and has designated a number of Sites of * English Heritage, whose has Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and responsibilities for protecting and Nature Reserves (NR) along the enhancing historical sites and Thames. Of particular relevance is structures. English Nature's Thames Estuary Other organisations who have an interest Management Flan which is due to be in the Thames are listed in Appendix 6. published in 1996. E C T I O N 2

THE RECREATIONAL

VALUE OF THE COUNTRYSIDE: THE NATIONAL

SCENE

E C T I O N 2

THE RECREATIONAL VALUE OF THE COUNTRYSIDE: THE NATIONAL SCENE

utting a monetary value on the benefit is constantly underestimated and countryside in terms of its subsequently underfunded by many Precreational and amenity value is agencies. In the short term lack of public very difficult, Charging for the use of sector funding will exacerbate this open space is equally difficult as there is situation. It is hoped that the continuing a strong belief that it should be 'free'. pressure for the recreational use of the The provision and maintenance of open countryside, and its inclusion within space for recreation and relaxation has Recreation Strategies, will raise its profile traditionally been viewed as being as an invaluable resource, securing important to achieving a good quality of additional resources in the longer term. life. As such, Local Authorities and Government Departments have provided 2.1. Participation in Countryside Recreation public open space, both within rural and Visiting and relaxing in the countryside is urban environments, In recent years, due a national recreational pursuit. Up to 18 to pressure on public sector finances, the million trips are made to the countryside provision of 'free' open space has l:>een on typical Sundays in summer, with over threatened. 75% of the population of England visiting the countryside at least once a year. Of As the Thames is a public navigation it these countryside trips, 19% are to a river must be maintained, and waterway or canal. Translating this figure to managers recover the costs of this numbers, in the Spring quarter of 1993 maintenance from those using boats on there were 29 million visits to a canal or the river, as do Fisheries managers from river. (Statistics from the UK Day Visitor anglers. There are subsequent benefits, Survey Spring 1993^). which are difficult to measure, to those who use the river for informal recreation, The Day Visitor Study reports that the as a 'free' open space. average distance people are prepared to travel to the countryside is 16.4 miles. Countryside recreation has many For trips specifically to canals and rivers economic benefits which are often the average is 28.9 miles, The availability undervalued. Research by the of a car is very important and as mobility Countryside Commission shows that half increases, the countryside becomes more of all trips to the countryside involve accessible to a greater number of people spending money during the visit. In 1990 who want to enjoy the freedom of being that spending amounted to an estimated in the open air. £12,432 million in England . The average Walking is one of the most popular spend per trip was shown to be £7.52. recreational activities, with 38% of the This spending is concentrated on population participating at least once a services and products, including food month . The importance of water to and crafts, which are provided by local walking is highlighted by the fact it is communities. mentioned as a feature in one in three of The value of countryside recreation in all walking trips . Although there are terms of both personal and economic seasonal and daily variations in activity, walking continues to be popular with a professional and managerial households significant minority throughout the year. (A and B social groups) are three times as likely to visit the countryside as those With numbers such as this involved, the angling takes place from July to countryside is obviously very much in September, as does 54% of sailing. The demand as a place for recreation. In popularity of the summer season is urban areas attractive open space is at a confirmed by statistics from the National premium and although not termed Survey of Boating Activitiesl6 which 'countryside' its function as a recreational show that tin a national scale, only 18% resource is similar in that it provides of participants are active in winter, outdoor areas for relaxation, walking, although for those taking part in picnicking and being close to nature. For competitive water sports training inner cities where access to rural areas is continues throughout the year. difficult, the value of open space can never be overstated. 2.2.1. Influences on Participation: Age, Gender and Social Class 2.2. Water-Related Sports Activities Unlike many more active forms of Some estimates show that up to 17% of leisure, informal countryside recreation the population regularly take part in has participants from all ages, and is water-related activities. Angling is the equally popular among males and most popular activity with a recent NRA females. Walking is unusual among the survey suggesting that 5.4% of the active pursuits in that its popularity population take part on a regular basis. continues as participants get older. The Research in 1989 by Leisure Consultants more active water sports however are confirms water sports to be a significant dominated by young men, with over half minority interest, with participation of all participants aged between 15 years figures for angling even higher at 7%, as and 24 years . Female participants form described in Table 1.0. one third or iess of the total. Taking Although these activities are popular all individual water sports, sailing is the year round there are clear seasonal most popular and angling the least variations. For example, 55% of all popular among women.

Table 1.0: Participation in Water Sports

Activities Percentage % Angling 7.0% Sailing 3.4% Powered Boating 2.3% Windsurfing 1.4% Canoeing 1.8% Rowing 0.9% Sub-Aqua 0.2% Water-Skiing 0.9% Jet-Skiing 0.2%

Source: Leisure Consultants 1989^ A greater influence on participation than _ age or gender is social class. Those from professional and managerial households (A and B social groups) are three times as likely to visit the countryside as those on minimum incomes. This relates directly to car ownership, residential location and housing environment.

Angling has the broadest range of participants, and is much more popular among manual workers (C2, D and E social groups) than other water sports (see Table 1.1.)

Table 1.1: Socio-economic Variations in Participation in all Active Water Sports

Social Class AB Cl C2 D E %% %%% Proportion of active water sports participants 23 30 29 13 5

Proportion in overall population 14 23 30 19 15

Source: Leisure Consultants'^ is a high content of competition (eg 2.2.2. Casual and Club-Based rowing). Participation Most people who visit the countryside For many water sports large numbers of do so on a casual, informal basis, regular participants are not members of although there are several organisations clubs, eg canoeing, waterskiing, cruising. associated with the countryside such as The RYA estimates that around 16% of the Ramblers Association, National Trust, boaters belong to a club, with most of RSPB and the YHA. Approximately 33% these being sailors rather than owners of of all visitors are members of such powered craft. groups, and they tend to visit twice as 2.3. Individual Recreational Activities: Current much as people who are not members. Status Most water sports are well served by This section summarises some national clubs and governing bodies, but research facts, figures and trends for various has shown that club-based participation water-based activities . Section 3 will represents only a small proportion of the look in more detail at each activity as it total interest. Club membership is more occurs on or around the river Thames. likely where there is a high degree of 2.3.1. A ngling institutional participation (eg rowing), * One of the most popular forms of where membership provides access to outdoor recreation with 5.4% good facilities, equipment and resources participating on a regular basis (eg waterskiing, fishing), or where there 11 (estimate from the most recent NRA 2.3.2. Boating - Sailing and Power survey) Boating * Heavily male dominated (approx. * Estimates of up to 2.5 million 10:1) participants for powered and unpowered boating, of which an * More diverse social profile than other estimated 1.8 million participate in water sports. Greater longevity in age sailing on a regular basis. The total profile, hut high turnover of number of boats nationally is participants. approximately 700,000, with around * Stable participation overall; growth in one in three participants owning boats. day ticket fishing. Table 1.2 shows trends in membership of the National * Fairly diverse participation profile, with Federation of Anglers which has more female and younger participants, experienced a decrease both in the especially in sailing, than many other number of clubs and individual water sports. Generally good longevity members within these clubs. Many in participation. new clubs joining the NFA are the * The Royal Yachting Association (RYA), smaller, match orientated groups. the governing body, has seen major * Membership of the Salmon and Trout growth in the 70's and 80's. Since the Association is increasing, as is mid 80's this growth has slowed to a membership of the National steady pace, but Leisure Consultants1 in Association of Fisheries and Angling a survey in 1989 forecast a 40% growth Consultative (NFAC), which has 29 in participation to the year 2000. Under Consultatives representing 364,000 recessionary conditions this rate of anglers nationally growth is unlikely.

* Provision of water spaces for angling * Any growth in participation will be is felt to be good, although better influenced by several limiting factors, access is needed to some areas. primarily mooring facilities, including access to water and sanitary facilities. Table 1.2: Trends in Club and Association The 1989 survey suggests that 85% of Membership (National Federation of Anglers) inland marinas and berthing places having waiting lists, and that a further Year No. of No. of Members 85,000 moorings will he needed by the Affiliated in Affiliated end of the century. Associations Assoc.. 1975 265 451,000 * Less than 20% of boaters are members 1980 374 478,000 of the RYA, although many belong to 1985 431 332,934 RYA affiliated clubs. Users of 1990 534 285,984 powerboats are in general under 1992 523 259,265 represented within the RYA. Other 1993 517 244,758 organisations representing boaters include the Inland Waterways 1994 513 221,699 Association (IWA), the National Association of Boat Owners (NABO), Source: National Federation of Anglers and the Residential Boat Owners Association (RBOA). Table 1.3: Trends in Membership of the Royal 2.3.4. Rowing Yachting Association. * Rowing is unusual among water sports in its domination by competitive Year No. of No. of Members activity and the number of participants in Affiliated Affiliated who are club or institution based. Associations Assoc. Opportunities for casual activity are 1988 1487 63,927 limited. 1989 1500 67,734 1990 1510 - * Due to the competitive nature of 1991 1508 69,322 rowing, membership of the Amateur 1992 1517 73,060 Rowing Association (ARA) reflects 1993 1470 72,080 participation reasonably accurately. In 1994 1590 76,586 1994 the ARA estimated that there were 30.000 active participants, of which Source: RYA 1995. 14.000 were individual members. Most of the others belong to ARA affiliated 2.3.3. Canoeing clubs. * Canoeing is one of the most popular water sports, although statistics for * Participation is generated primarily participation vary widely. The British through schools and universities. It is Canoe Union (BCU) estimate there to estimated that 25% of participants are he more than 100,000 participants, with under 16 years and 25% are female. under half of these members of the The growth in the number of female BCU or of BCU affiliated clubs. The rowers is continuing. Leisure Consultants survey suggests that * Around 40% of rowing takes place in there are up to 800,000 canoeists, London and the south east. including holiday and casual * In general, participation in rowing has participants (1989). declined since the 70's and is now * Young adults are particularly dominant static. The ARA are currently working among participants (80% are in the 16- to develop the sport and broaden its 25 year age group), but canoeing has a interest base. wide appeal, with more women and lower sociol economic groups than 2.4. Other Water Sports other water sports. The following sports either do not occur on the Thames or are very much in the * The inexpensive nature of canoeing minority, due to the unsuitability of the and the fact that it is relatively easy to water space, speed limits and learn make it one of the most popular overcrowding. It is however important to water sports, appealing to family review their position nationally. If there groups and to the less affluent. It is is demand which cannot be satisfied on forecast to grow by 15% by the year the Thames alternative facilities need to 2000‘\ be investigated. * Key issues are lack of access to suitable watercourses, conflict with other users and a lack of overnight facilities for touring canoeists. 2.4.1. Sub-Aqua estimate 90.000 adults taking part * Access to sub-aqua is relatively difficult annually, including holiday and national participation levels are participation and other casual hire, low at around 70,000. * Participation is dominated hy young * Participation is male dominated (75%). males, with 16 years being the and most popular in the 20-40 year recommended minimum age for age range. participation.

* Diving continues to grow in * Jet-skiing is often perceived as being popularity, especially with the intrusive and the number of sites availability of holiday training courses, permitting the activity is limited. both in the UK and abroad. More Further sites, particularly on sheltered, dedicated inland sites are required for enclosed, inland water are required, the training of divers in the UK. both for competitive and recreational use, although issues on the 2.4.2. Windsurfing conservation of the natural * Participation estimates range from environment need to be considered. 500.000 to 600,000, although the figure for board owners is 160,000. After 2.5. Countryside Recreation rapid growth in the mid 80's, it is now stabilising. Young males dominate. 2.5.1 Walking * Prospects are for future growth as * Recreational walking is the most access is generally easy, but lack of popular outdoor activity in the UK suitable open water space is a with the General Household Survey problem. Currently activity is centred (1989)? finding that 38% of the adult on coastal areas close to beaches and population w^alk for pleasure (more on designated inland waters. than 2 miles), in any 4 week period. * As well as shorter walks the UK Day 2.4.3. Waterskiing Visitors survey in 1993 showed the * Participation estimates range from increasing popularity of long distance 150.000 to over 300,000, with young walking, especially important for the males dominating. Thames corridor in light of the Thames * Despite increasing opposition, even at Path and other long distance walks established sites, wraterskiing is linking to it. continuing to grow in popularity. * The survey particularly noted the * The sport is now capacity constrained, popularity of water sites for w'aIking. with several sites operating at saturation levels. New sites are 2.5.2. Cycling required, as is greater planning support * Cycling has grown dramatically in and a strategic approach to provision. popularity since the advent of the mountain bike in the 1970's. The 2.4.4. Personal Watercraft suitability of these bikes for 'off-road' * Jet-skiing has 5.000 regular cycling has led to increasing numbers participants, with around 3,000 jet skis of people cycling on tracks and in private ownership. Market analysts bridleways. * Of the 15 million bicycles in ownership in the UK, 5 5 million are mountain bikes.

* Off-road cycling was one of the fastest growing sports of the 1980's, with 500.000 regular participants (British Mountain Bike Federation). Only 2,200 are members of mountain bike clubs.

* There is conflict on some paths and bridleways between cyclists and other users, and this is seen on the banks of the Thames. Pressure continues for changes the percentage of young people more facilities for off-road cycling. involved in sport is now falling. For Several other less formal types of outdoor activities in particular, recent recreation take place in the countryside, growth has occurred in the over-25 age and many of these are impossible to group, and these outdoor activities seem quantify, for example, sightseeing, bird to maintain their appeal longer than and nature watching, picnicking, and indoor sports, for example fishing, sailing general relaxation. On the water there is and walking. rafting, punting and, although not usually In tandem with sporting activities in encouraged, swimming. general, water sports enjoyed steady Part of any planning process is ensuring growth throughout the 70's and 80's. The that these activities are provided for, in recent recession has slowed this growth, appropriate places, while minimising especially in activities which require detriment to each other and the substantial capital investment in environment. It also includes forecasting equipment. This static phase, or at best what is likely to happen in the future. slow growth, appears likely to hold true Although this is very difficult to do in the coming years, although changes in accurately, it is very important to have the quality and diversity of facilities general forecasts to work to. available, and the level of promotion, will raise or lower demand locally. 2.6. Future Trends in Water Sports In the light of these trends, the key Participation factors which will affect participation in Sports participation overall has risen water related recreation in the coming steadily over recent years. Currently years are as follows: around 46% of the population takes part in at least one sport. Although more men 2.6.1. Demographic Changes (57%) than women (37%), take part, Given the dominance in many water women's participation has been sports of young adults, any changes in increasing faster than men's. Participation the population structure will influence has increased in all age groups since the the scale of participation. The recent late 1970's, but due to demographic decline in the number of children will lead to a fall in the number of 16-24 year want it, and in longer blocks. This will olds in the mid 1990's by almost 2 significantly benefit water sports and million. These young adults form a countryside activities, many of which substantial proportion of the water need longer time spans. sports market and in terms of the population base, active water spoits 2.6.4. Active Lifestyles appear to be negatively affected to the Together with this increase in leisure year 2000. time there has been an increase in awareness of sports which before were There has been a corresponding increase only available to the few. There has also in the number of people over 50 years of been a growth in knowledge, and in the age. The increased fitness of these older confidence of individuals to do things age groups is producing a market they may never have done before. This segment of older, more affluent people trend will continue, especially among the with time on their hands and an interest 'new' retired who are more familiar with in outdoor activities. Walking, cruising spending their time actively than those and sailing are the activities which will from earlier generations. benefit most from this age group. The relationship between health and 2.6.2. Standard of Living and active leisure has grown in the last A ffluence decade, as has health consciousness in Many water based activities, particularly general. This has led to the development those which involve boats, are relatively of health related fitness campaigns and expensive and are strongly influenced by also 'healthy1 outdoor activities. Again the standard of living. The recent this trend is set to continue and will add recession has had a major negative to the demand for opportunities to take influence on boat related recreation. part in active leisure. Forecasts for the next 5 years predict economic growth and an increase in 2.6*5. Awareness o f the personal prosperity. If this prediction is Environment accurate there may be a resurgence in The last few years have seen a growth in boat based activity, especially among public awareness of the need to older members of the population. conserve the environment. The 'green' lobby is not just a passing campaign but 2.6.3. Leisure Time is now a part of everyday life. This has, In the last 20 years increases in leisure and will continue to have, an effect on time have been an important factor in recreation, in particular motorised sports the growth of active leisure. This trend is in the countryside. It will also bring a predicted to continue although more change in priority for many parts of the slowly, at 0.5% per annum, giving countryside. In areas where recreational people an extra 150 hours of leisure time use is well established, such as the per year by 2000. More important are the Thames, the trend will be to protect trends towards self-employment, working sensitive areas through public education from home, flexible working hours and and the encouragement of self part-time employment which will enable regulation. people to have more time when they 2.6.6. Public Sector Financial that the countryside is set to increase in Constraints popularity as a leisure destination, both In the past 30 years many of our for informal activities such as walking, recreational facilities, such as public and more formal trips, such as visiting parks, leisure centres, and amenity areas specific sites of interest. have been funded by the public sector. For water sports the prediction under This funding included much needed current circumstances is for slow but grant aid to the voluntary' sector. steady growth, slower for some activities Significant cuts in public spending have than others. If there is a strong recovery already had a detrimental effect on both in the economy it is predicted that the the development of new and the recent decline in some of the more maintenance and repair of existing expensive water sports will be reversed. facilities. To maintain present levels of Bird watching and rambling are two supply and make improvements other activities which, although they do not sources of funding will need to lx? depend on water, tend to be more sought. The effect of this will be a popular in an environment where there change in the role of the public sector is water. Both of these activities have from one of primary supplier to seen significant growth in the last few facilitator, working in partnership with years and that trend is predicted to others, including commercial operators continue. and the voluntary sector, and providing Cycling is another growth activity which strategic plans, grant aid and advice to is popular in the countryside. As many stimulate the provision of opportunities footpaths are not suitable for cycling for recreation. there are potential problems. This is an 2.6.7. Water Quality issue which will need to be addressed in Fundamental to the recreational use of planning for outdoor recreation. waterways is the issue of water quality. All of these issues will affect recreation All those who take part in water sports on the Thames, but there are also are in contact with the water to some additional local factors which will have degree and in waters which are not of an impact on the future of the river. bathing standard there are potential risks. Those who take part regularly are more At present recreation on the Thames is likely to be aware of these risks, but it is supply rather than demand led, with the casual user who has least knowledge relatively little promotion of activities and and is therefore more at risk. Growing a limit on the potential for the interest in the environment will increase development of new facilities. This pressure to improve water quality and Strategy will review both (he supply and provide better information. This would demand for recreation on the Thames have a positive effect on water sports and seek to match these in locations participation. where it will be environmentally and strategically acceptable. 2.7. Countryside Recreation in the Next 10 Years? Putting all these factors together with the statistical information, the prediction is E C T I O N 3

RECREATION ON THE THAMES:

SETTING THE LOCAL

SCENE

SECTION 3

RECREATION ON THE THAMES: SETTING THE LOCAL SCENE

rcview of the national scene is was concentrated on the more formal important in providing an club user, yet for activities the number of A overview of countryside casual participants outweighs the number recreation and water sports, their past, of club users. To gain a regional present and future development. overview and identify general issues However, local circumstances often affecting recreation on the Thames, the create a different scene, especially in the research phase also included interviews Thames Valley which is one of the most with regional representatives of the urbanised and densely populated areas relevant Governing Bodies of Sport. in the country. 3.1. Club Based Water Sports on the Thames As pan of preparing the Thames There are approximately 370 Recreation Strategy a series of primary sports/recreational dubs based on the research projects were conducted to Thames (see Table 2.O.). Some have provide first hand, up-to-date information been there for many years and have on current and future patterns of adapted as the river scene has changed. recreation on the Thames. Others are relative newcomers, but all Project-dedicated research took the form have one thing in common, their desire of three major customer surveys and a to see the Thames maintained as an series of meetings with a cross-section of open space where they can enjoy the river users. countryside, the water environment and the camaraderie they experience while Thames Recreation Surveys taking part in their sport. • Survey of Recreational Clubs which are A questionnaire was issued to a sample based on the Thames. of clubs on the Thames (257), both as an • Survey of Leisure Related Commercial inventory exercise, ie how many Operators on the Thames. members, what facilities, etc, and also to give clubs the opportunity to influence • Sample survey of Cruisers using the the Recreation Strategy by highlighting Thames in summer 1993. issues important to their activity. The The results of research projects being questionnaire and full results are detailed undertaken by other agencies were in Appendix 2. reviewed to provide additional information on how the Thames is used 3.1.1. Summary of Club Survey as a leisure resource. The most important As the most popular form of water based of these was the Countryside recreation it is not surprising that angling Commission's Thames Path User Survey clubs form 24% of the total of all clubs conducted along the Thames path during based on the Thames. According to the summer months in 1993. This survey available records there are approximately is discussed in detail later in this section 90 clubs leasing angling rights along the when reviewing the use of the banks of Thames, although some of the the Thames for informal recreation. Associations such as the Oxford and Much of the survey work on water sports District Angling Association represent numerous local clubs. Many anglers Table 2- Type of Boat never join a club and although we do Water No. of Clubs % of Clubs not have accurate figures for casual Sports on the on the anglers on the Thames, their numbers Thames Thames are significant and it is important not to Angling 89 24 forget them. Rowing 148 39 Unlike angling, rowing clubs represent Sailing 33 9 more or less all rowers on the Thames. It Canoeing 33 9 is almost always a club-based, Cruising 55 15 competitive sport, w’ith the Thames being Sea Cadets & 13 3 home to 40% of all British rowers, a total Water Sport of 148 clubs (39% of all clubs). O f this Centres total a significant 62 are University based Skiff & Punting 3 1 clubs, 37 of these at Oxford Colleges. In TOTAL 374 100 addition there are 42 schools based clubs on the Thames. (For the geographic distribution of these clubs see Table 2 in Appendix 2.) Sailing and canoeing have a similar number of clubs on the Thames, both From a management viewpoint, a key 9% of the total. The difference with advantage of having such a well- canoeing is the large number of developed network of clubs is the participants who are not members of communication system which it provides. clubs. The same is taie for those cruising This helps to coordinate the use of the the river, most of whom do not join a river by activities which are in some club. There are however 55 cruising instances incompatible. clubs based on the Thames above the Barrier, forming 15% of all clubs (see The results of the club survey illustrate also boat traffic surveys in Section 4). trends, preferences and opinions which are important in helping to formulate a Most clubs have secondary activities, for plan for the future of the river. However, example 45% of canoe clubs offer the casual users or 'unclubabbles1, for sailing, and 32% offer rowing. Sailing is whom the Thames is an important also popular with cruising clubs. There is resource, must not be forgotten. These less crossover between land-based and are much more difficult to contact and water-based activities, for example therefore 'manage', but are equally angling and boating. important when preparing and putting a Many other club-based recreational strategy for the Thames into action. activities occur on and around the Thames, although they make up no more 3.1.2. Key Points from the Club than 1% of the total number of clubs. Survey They include: scuba diving; bird * The recreational use of the Thames is watching; photography; nature study; long established, as are many of the social outings; rafting; cycling; dragon clubs some of which have been in boat racing and windsurfing. existence since the last century. As wTith all ventures managed by volunteers they have a chequered some facilities whether it be a boat­ house, clubhouse, or a small landing stage. The most commonly cited 'issue' (a problem for some) i.s overcrowding on the river, bringing conflict with other users.

* Although the keen club members use the river all year round and throughout the w'eek, most use is, as expected, at the w'eekends, with Sunday being by far the busiest day and July the busiest month. This veiy obvious peak time activity is the main cause of history regarding participation levels. overcrowding and the subsequent In the last few years activity on the conflict. river has at best been static with some * Other more practical problems include clubs in decline. poor access to the river via slipways, * The density of clubs and activity on and poor car parking and toilet the Thames increases as it flows facilities, not necessarily at the club downstream, and is relative to the base but in other areas of the river number of bridging points and the which they use. ureas of urbanisation. In the Upper Thames most activity is based around 3.1.3. Sum m ary Oxford and the few riverside towns. Clubs on the non-tidal Thames appear to be reasonably satisfied with their activity * There are significantly more Thames and the conditions on the river. The based rowing clubs than any other view of the tidal Thames is less positive activity, followed by angling, cruising, as it is believed that facilities and canoeing and sailing. Rambling clubs services, especially for cruising craft, are however have most members and are lacking. the fastest growing, while the angling clubs are in decline, despite the fact For most clubs conflict with other users that the number of casual anglers is is an issue but it is generally confined to growing specific, one-off incidents. Unfortunately these can have a long-lasting effect on * Most clubs l)elieve that there is latent those involved. For others shared use is demand for their activity. This demand all part of the experience and ’fun' of the has not been tapped as clubs rarely Thames. 'market' themselves. Some do not have a system for coping with new A major part of this Strategy is to members and/or novices and for minimise conflict, while ensuring the others there is a dilemma between the Thames is accessible to those who want existing equilibrium of resources, and to use it. Improving lines of generating new interest. communication between activities and clubs, educating users about each others * In general, clubs on the Thames have activity, and development of the River User Group system should help to The survey interviewed over 1300 people reduce conflict and increase a mutual at 20 locations on the Thames Path. understanding. From the results it is estimated that Ixjtween May and September there are 3.2. Casual Recreation on the Thames approximately 230,000 visits to walk A difficult but important task is to make along the hanks of the Thames. In terms contact with the casual or ‘unclubabble’ of total use of the Thames banks this is a river user. It is difficult to quantify the significant underestimation as the level of casual use of the Thames for interview sites were away from the key recreation. This includes most forms of honey pot sites, many of which are lock bankside recreation and boaters and sites and local parks. It is difficult to fishermen who are not members of accurately establish the number of clubs. The system of boat registration visitors to the Thames as the sites vary which operates on the non-tidal Thames so much in their density of use. In the provides accurate numbers of boats on future the NRA will have more accurate the river and the boaters survey information as there are now automated discussed in Section 4 provides pedestrian counters at key sites along the information on user profiles and patterns river bank. First indications from these of use. show that to one lock site alone (Hurley Lock) there are 160,000 visits annually. One of the key areas not yet discussed is the casual use of the river bank for 3.2.2. Who are these C asual Users? recreation and relaxation. There have The Thames is primarily a 'local' facility. been several surveys in the last few years Almost all people on short walks live which give a good indication of river within 30 miles (93%), with 65% living bank use. One of these was an NRA within 10 miles. Although there is use of survey carried out in 1990 which found the Thames bank by tourists, the vast that there are approximately 7 million majority come directly from home and visits to lock sites on the Thames every spend a short time on the trail. Many are year. Many of these were local people, 'regulars' with 32% visiting the Thames at with one third visiting at least once a least once a month. Only 23% of those week. For them the Thames is a regular in the survey were on their first visit. local destination for walking and relaxation. The most common user profile is adults over 45 years (50%), male (64%), and 3.2.1. Thames Path Visitor Survey with a partner. Although over half are in Additional information on those who full-time employment, a significant 16% walk along the Thames was gathered by are retired. In comparison with surveys the Countryside Commission's National of other trails, the age profile of those Trails Survey which was carried out on who use the Thames is older, probably the Thames Path in 1993. Although the because of the level and therefore less survey focused on the National Trail, it arduous nature of the Thames Path. revealed useful information about the As reflected in national statistics a use of the bank of the Thames for casual significant number of those who visit the recreation. countryside are members of organisations such as the National Trust Facilities such as toilets, car parking and and RSPB. On the Thames this applies to litter bins are felt to be lacking by over almost a third of those on short walks, half of the users. Obviously these are and two thirds of those on long walks. more important to the long distance users. 3.2.3. T ype o f Use The Thames forms part of numerous 3.2.5. Expenditure by Casual Users circular routes, and a significant 25% of Over 50% of casual visitors to the users follow one of these routes. Thames do not spend anything. These Although 38% had walked from home to are the locals who Lise the bank to walk the Thames, over half had travelled by the dog or have a stroll. O f those that do car. Afternoons are busiest with most spend, for the majority this is less than people using the paths between 2pm £5. On the other hand almost all of those and 4pm. Although summer is the most on a long distance walk do spend, with popular time, 73% also visit in winter. 50% spending more than £10 per day. Pubs receive the majority of this, The most popular areas to visit tend to followed by hotels, restaurants and food be the villages and towns where there is stores. good access and facilities, with the remoter areas upstream of Cricklade 3.2.6. Awareness o f the Thames being least popular. Path In an earlier study undertaken by the 3.2.4. Why the Thames is P opular Countryside Commission, over 1000 Most people who visit the Thames see it Thames Valley residents were asked as the ’countryside' and enjoy the peace about their awareness of the Thames and quiet, as well as the scenery. Only Path. One in five (20%) were aware that 7% mentioned the river as a key it existed, although 75% had in fact used attraction. it for short walks without realising it was Few people had complaints and any a National Trail. negative comments focused on litter, mountain bikes, noise pollution (in built 3.2.7. Sum m ary up areas) and overcrowding. * The banks of the Thames provide a summer playground for millions of There is, however, dissatisfaction with people, many of whom visit on a information provision such as regular basis. The most popular waymarking, information boards and activities are walking, watching, and guide books. Long distance walkers use just being outdoors. guides much more than those on short walks, and most of the guides are aimed * The casual users are generally satisfied at the long distance market. Local people with their experience of the Thames tend to visit areas they are already bank, although 50% would like to see familiar with. A review of information improvements in facilities such as sources on the Thames and how that toilets, car parks and litter bins. information is distributed is part of an * Unlike boaters, over 50% of casual ongoing work programme within the bankside users do not spend anything. NRA's Recreation Section. O f those that do, the majority spend less than £5. In most cases the user is A very important underlying issue is who only a short distance from home. will pay both for maintaining the resource and improving the facilities. The value of the hanks of the Thames as Will it continue to lx* the NRA, or will it a recreational destination is often become the responsibility of Local forgotten. In many areas it is taken for Authorities, Central Government, or the granted as public open space to be used Users? The most effective method of by local residents for casual recreation. resolving both financial and management In terms of a Recreation Strategy it is issues will be through partnerships. A list very important to emphasise this less of possible sources of funding for formal yet very important use of the projects on the Thames is included in Thames by many people. Appendix 8. With the official opening of the Thames What is clear is that the Thames and its path in 1996 the profile of the river as a banks is a very important recreational countryside destination will be raised resource, which is taken for granted by substantially. This will have a significant both regular and casual users. Part of this effect on the Thames and the areas Strategy must be to inform, enlighten which it runs through, with more people and encourage the users to appreciate needing facilities and better information. and sustain this outdoor playground. E C T I O N 4

BOATING

ON THE

E C T I O N 4

PLEASURE BOATING ON THE THAMES

s a public highway the Thames is maintaining and improving the NRA one of the best used waterways navigation fairway, facilities and A in the country. These days most standards; ’ traffic is leisure craft and the Thames is ‘recovering fro m the users the costs o f now home to some 19,400 registered providing specific navigation facilities boats (non-tidal Thames). The and a reasonable proportion of the management of the navigation is divided costs o f m aintainin g the n a v ig a tio n ’. between the National Rivers Authority (NRA) and the Port of London Authority To fulfil these responsibilities on the (PLA). The NRA are the navigation Thames the NRA have a team of authority for the non-tidal Thames from navigation staff who 'manage' boating on Cricklade High Bridge to Teddington, the river from four area offices: while the PLA are the navigation (See Appendix 6 for contact addresses). authority for the tidal Thames, from West Area: Teddington to the sea. - Cricklade Town Bridge to Benson The geography of the tidal and non-tidal Lock (office in Oxford). Thames is very different and leads to - Benson Lock to Hurley Lock different types of use. The lower section (office in Reading). of the tidal Thames is still a commercial South East Area: port and below Putney Bridge - Hurley Lock to Penton Hook commercial traffic dominate over leisure (office in Maidenhead). craft. - Penton Hook to Teddington (office in Sunbury). 4.1. The Non-Tidal Navigation: Cricklade to Each district has a team of Inspectors Teddington and boatmen who patrol the river in As the navigation authority for the non- launches and manage the lock keeping tidal Thames the NRA have been given staff, of which there are 76 looking after statutory responsibilities, which must be the 45 lock and weir systems on the fulfilled in.a way which integrates with river. all the other NRA functions.

The NRA's principal aim in relation to 4.1.1. Trends in Boating on the navigation is: Non-Tidal Thames

'to improve and maintain inland All boats using the non-tidal Thames, waters a n d their facilities fo r use by including visiting craft, must be the pub lic where the NRA is the registered with the NRA. The registration navigation authority’. fee contributes to the cost of the Part of fulfilling this aim includes: navigation service and varies according to the type and size of the boat. ‘regulating NRA navigations through Having a system of craft registration the enforcement o f a consistent series provides a detailed overview of boating o f licences, orders, byelaws, a n d statutes; ’ activity on the non-tidal Thames over the past 50 years. This is supplemented by * Unpowered C r a ft lock traffic movements which are The number of unpowered craft has recorded on a daily basis by the lock dropped from a peak of 13,600 in 1975, keeping staff. Over the past 20 years the lo 10,200 in 1983- Since then the figure number of craft registered on the non- has remained reasonably stable, with tidal Thames has ranged between 19,000 8,400 unpowered craft registered in 1994. and 27,000. This figure includes a significant number of small craft which are exempt from * Total C r a f t registration, i.e. Approved Youth In 1976 ihe total number of craft Associations and Racing Clubs. This has registered reached its peak at 27,000. dropped from almost 4,000 in the late Since then there has been a decrease in 70s, to less than 3,000 in recent years. the numbers of craft registered, with 1994 It is estimated that 85% of unpowered showing the lowest figure for over 20 craft are canoes, that is approximately years, with a total of 19,400. (This does 7,000 canoes registered for use on the not include late or visitor registrations.) Thames in 1993- (See Graph 1.) H ire C r a ft * Powered C r a f t * In 1994 there were 360 hire craft Powered craft currently represent 57% of registered on the non-tidal Thames. This all registrations, with peaks of up to number reached its peak in 1979 when 14,000 in 1975 & 1976, and again in 1989 there were over 1000 hire craft & 1990. This figure dropped lo 11,000 in registered. There had been a growth in 1994. the demand for hire craft during the 70s Graph 1 PRIVATE LAUNCH STATISTICS 1974 - 1994

No of Craft 14,000

Private Launches Small Craft Visiting Craft

Note: Private Launches Includes lata registration Graph 2 HIRE LAUNCH STATISTICS 1974 -1994

No of Craft 1,200

1,000

800

600

400

200

0 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 Year Passenger Boats Day Hire Hire Craft

and in response a number of new unable to reinvest in their boats to keep operators had entered the market, often them up to a standard which the taking advantage of sponsorship customer expected. Subsequently some /operator arrangements to capitalise the companies went out of the boating additional boats. This led to an business, often seeking better financial oversupply of hire craft which was - returns from the redevelopment of quickly reduced the next season. (See valuable riverside sites. Graph 2.) Those companies that survived had to The market for hire boats on the Thames review the market and develop a was not sustained in the following years. product to suit changing trends, such as Various factors contributed to the decline the growth in popularity of the short of the business including changes in break, and the expectation of high holiday patterns. The availability of low quality boats with modern facilities. The cost package holidays to the short season (from April to October), Mediterranean, where good weather was with full capacity only achieved for a guaranteed, left holidays on the Thames few weeks, is an added problem, as is looking expensive in comparison. There susceptibility to the weather. One wet was also an expansion in other boating summer leads to a significant decline in holiday locations, both in the UK and in bookings for the following season. central Europe which led to too many In terms of boating activity, hire cruisers boats chasing too few customers. make up a significant proportion of the For some companies the drop in traffic in the season. As they are business and profits meant they were normally hired for 1 or 2 week periods. they make use of the river on weekdays * Registration for Competitions when it is otlierwise quiet, unlike (he Special arrangements are available for majority of private craft whose activity is unpowered craft who are taking part in a concentrated at the weekend. competition on the Thames (open event). The numbers of these The recent recession has taken its toll on registrations over the years follows a the hire industry and there is little somewhat irregular pattern. In the 1970’s investment or development in terms of new operators or the expansion of there were 5000-6000 registered per year. existing businesses. It is felt by industry During the 1980's this rose to a peak of representatives and by those associated 8860 (1987), although it dropped to 6195 with the river that the optimum number in 1992. 1994 saw a rise again with just of hire craft for the Thames is 400-500. over 7000 craft registered. In the last few years (1992-1995) the number of craft has remained at * Moorings approximately 360. The Thames Hire The availability of permanent moorings on the Thames has always been a Cruiser Association represents the industry on the Thames. sensitive issue. In most cases those with a private residence on the river bank The pattern for smaller day hire boats have the right to moor one boat for has been consistent, with approximately private use on their land. All other 200 registered on the Thames in 1994. permanent moorings require planning permission from the riparian Local * Visiting C r a f t and Short Term Authority. Registration Craft which are only using the Thames From a survey of moorings on the non- on a short term basis are able to buy 1 tidal Thames (Cricklade to Teddington, day, 15 day or 31 day registration. The 1994), the best estimate of the total number of these issued in the last ten number of permanent moorings is 9347. years has increased, rising from just over Of this total, 5037 (54%) are on the main 1000 in 1982 to more than 3000 in 1994. channel, 3413 (36%) are within marinas, This recent increase is due to a and 897 (10%) are in back waters (see combination of factors including the Table 3 0, Graph 3a, and Appendix 3). general popularity of canal boating, and The number of moorings increases a review' of the charging scheme which dramatically downstream of Goring, both has reduced the cost for visitors to the in marinas and on the main river Thames. There are also more places channel. The Lower Thames below where visitors can register their boats. Staines is significantly busier than further upstream, with an average of 215 * Passenger Services moorings per mile of river. Almost 35% In 1994 there were 62 passenger craft of these are within marinas. registered on the non-tidal Thames, A previous count of permanent moorings having risen from a low of 52 in 1983. was carried out in 1976 , when there Most of these are based in the more were a total of 7656 on the non-tidal populated areas dow'nstream of Thames. Although there have been strict Maidenhead. planning controls, especially in the Upper Thames, there has been a 22% Thames there was a 35% increase, from a increase in the number of moorings relatively low base line. Most of these overall, the majority of which are in the ‘new’ moorings are within large marina Lower Thames. In the Middle Thames, developments in the Lower Thames. (See between Coring and Staines, there has Table 3-1 & Graph 3b.) been a 13% increase, while in the Upper

Permanent Moorings on the Non-Tidal Thames (1994)

Main Channel Backwater Marina Area 1 - Cricklade to Area 2 - Goring to Area 3 - Staines to Goring Staines Teddington

Table 3.0: Permanent Moorings on the Non-Tidal Thames (1994)

Main Channel Backwater Marina Total No. % No. % No. % No. % CRICKLADE 331 130 82 543 to OXFORD 61 24 15 6 OXFORD to 633 132 128 893 GORING 71 15 14 10 GORING to 2135 186 1927 4248 STAINES 55 4 41 45 STAINES to 1938 449 1276 3663 TEDDTON 53 12 35 39 TOTAL 5037 897 3078 9347 56 10 34 100 Graph 3b Growth in the Number I of Moorings since 1980 I

v'i’-’ii ■ S' I*- ?M ~f[ y'-V-vi '^*-'*5*3 ’i kv‘* „'rr7*..Sj i % 0 -

1976 1994

Area 1 - Cricklade to Area 2 - Goring to Area 3 - Staines to Goring Staines Teddington

Table 3.1: Permanent Moorings on the Thames.

Permanent Permanent Average no. Moorings Moorings % Increase moorings per 1976 1994 mile (1994) AREA 1: Source to Goring 1067 1436 35% 18 (81 miles) AREA 2: Goring to 3757 4248 13% 87 Staines (49 miles) AREA 3: Staines to Tedd’ton 2832 3663 23% 215 (17 miles) TOTAL 7656 9347 22% 64 (147 miles)

4.1.2. Boat Movements on the Non- actual movement of traffic on the river Tidal Thames and where and when activity is Craft registration figures give an overall concentrated, is illustrated by lock traffic picture of the number of boats based on figures. Every lock made, i.e ‘lockage’, the Thames and how this has varied over and every vessel that goes through the time. More detailed information on the lock is recorded by the lock keeper. * Riverwide Activity and August by far the busiest months on Since 1976 there has been an obvious the river. steady decrease in activity especially at The geographical pattern of activity has the busier locks in the central reaches been consistent over the years. The between Reading and Staines. The year busiest locks, with between 10,000 and of peak activity was 1980 when there 12,000 lockages per year, are Caversham were more than 1,100,000 vessels and Whitchurch in the Reading area; through locks and a total of 450,000 Hurley, Temple, and Hambleden in the lockages. Since then there has been a Henley area; Bray and Boveney in the decrease to a low in 1994 to 726,000 Windsor area; Chertsey and Shepperton vessels through locks and 364,000 in the Weybridge area. Most of these lockages. (See Graphs 4a & 4b). locks have marinas or large boat yards As well as a decrease in boating activity, close by. these figures demonstrate that fewer The least busy locks are in the Upper boats are going through each lockage, as Thames, particularly Rushey, Radcot, compared to 15 years ago, partly due to Grafton and Buscot in the west the increase in the size of boats now Oxfordshire area where lockages in using the Thames. 1993 were just over 4,000 per year, although the popularity of the Thames * Seasonal and Geographical west of Oxford has grown in recent Variations years. This has led to an increase in lock As expected almost all lock movements traffic in the Upper Thames, while it has are between April and October, with July been decreasing in the Lower Thames.

Graph 4a Thames Lock Traffic Trends 1976-1985-1988-1993

Total No of Vessels

Locks 1976 1985 1988 1993

Blakea Lock has bean omrttad No.1 Lock = St Johns No.2 Lock » Buacot etc... One of the reasons for this is the Water Authority, that if this growth was increasing numbers of visiting craft from allowed to continue the river would the Oxford canal. become so overcrowded that there

Graph 4b Locks Made & Lock Traffic 1980 -1993

No.

Year Total Vessels Total Lockages

would he permanent damage to the 4.1.3. Factors A f f e c t in g B oat T r a ffic on the Non-Tidal Thames natural environment. It was decided that there should be a strategy for recreation It is obvious from all the data that on the non-tidal Thames to help plan boating activity on the Thames has and manage for the future. A Working decreased over the last 15 years from a Party was convened, various research peak in its busiest period in the late 70s projects were carried out and policy and early 80’s. There are several reasons statements prepared. The first (and only) for the decline, including economic policy document was published in 1980. factors, the decline in the hire trade and It focused only on boating, although it to some extent the production and had been hoped that other forms of implementation of the River Thames recreation would be covered in Leisure Policy in 1980 by Thames Water subsequent policy documents. Authority and the riparian Boroughs. In summary, the River Thames Leisure * River Thames Leisure Policy Policy controlled the growth of boating During the 70’s the popularity of the activity on the non-tidal Thames by Thames for recreational boating was recommending planning restrictions on growing every year and there was permanent moorings and discouraging concern among the 'managers' of the the development of further facilities along river, i.e. Local Authorities and Thames the Thames. Most of the riparian boroughs adopted these recommendations 4.2. The Tidal Navigation: Teddington to the into their local plans and in many Barrier instances these policies are still applied. 4.2.1. PLA a n d NRA Responsibilities Responsibility for navigation on the tidal The effect of the Leisure Policy was to Thames is with the Port of London halt the growth in boating activity on the Authority (PLA), who take over from the Thames as it became difficult to find NRA downstream of Teddington Lock new permanent moorings for boats, and and Weir. The NRA do, however, relain for commercial operators to expand their their other responsibilities which include businesses. It is intended that this those for recreation and conservation. Strategy will replace and extend the 1980 The NRA are currently working with Leisure Policy document, covering the English Nature to produce a Thames Thames from its source to the Thames Estuary Management Plan w'hich will Barrier. form the NRA's Catchment Management Plan for the estuary, which will be * Economic Factors published in 1996. The recession has not only affected the The PI^A was established as a Public hire industry but almost all boating Trust under the Port of London Act of activity on the Thames. Much of the 1908, for the purpose of administering, decline in the number of boats registered preserving, and improving the port of is due to the recent recession which has London and for other purposes including brought an end to luxuries such as the conservancy of the Thames’. motor cruisers. The cost of maintaining a boat on the Thames is relatively 4.2.2. Boating on the Tidal Tfoames expensive and many owners have had to Unlike the non-tidal Thames, the sell their boats in the past few years. Tideway is still very much a commercial Others have decided to keep their craft and industrial transport route. London is but not use them. As long as a boat is still the busiest port in the UK, handling not used for any purpose it does not 10% of all Britain's trade, so much of the require registration with the NRA. As the work of the PLA is focused on managing economy improves many of these boats commercial craft. As well as industrial will come into use again. craft, a significant proportion of craft on the tidal Thames provide a leisure The recession has also been given as the service, i.e. pleasure cruisers and cmise single most significant factor in the liners. In terms of recreational craft the demise of many of the boat based vast majority are based upstream of industries on the Thames, primarily boat Hammersmith Bridge. yards and marinas. Although there is a limited amount of Other factors which have affected recreational boating on the Thames boating activity on the Thames include downstream of Hammersmith, priority is lack of awareness and information. certainly given to commercial traffic. The These are discussed in Section 5. Department of Transport's River Thames Working Group have been examining the transport potential of the Thames for both commercial and leisure markets. A The popularity of London as a port of report into maximising the river as a call for liners has increased significantly transport artery was published in in recent years. In 1993 18 liners used December 1994^'. the moorings, in 1994 this figure rose to 24. The kirger ships which are unable to * Passenger Services cruise so far upstream dock at Tilbury, Although it provides a leisure service, where a total of 59 liners moored in operating a passenger boat is very much 1994. This growth in the popularity of a commercial business. A boat trip on London as a liner destination is forecast the Thames is integral to many tourist to continue, which is not only financially visits to London. The favourite starting important, but it makes use of the river point is Westminster Pier, with trips via as a transport route for visitors to Tower and Greenwich Piers being the London. most popular. A total of 56 craft are available for passenger and charter * Recreational Boating services. Although not all of these use Despite the fact that the London Thames PLA piers, those that do carried a total of is heavily used as a commercial transport 1.6 million passengers in 1993. route, it is still a very important recreational resource. Unlike the non- Licences to operate a passenger service tidal Thames, there is no requirement to are issued by the Department of register recreational craft on the tideway, Transport. Those craft using PLA piers therefore it is impossible to estimate with also require a PLA licence. As part of any accuracy the number of boats their initiative to improve the quality of cruising in the London area. Lock passenger services on the London movements at Teddington showed a total Thames, the PLA require specific of over 15,000 craft passing through the standards of customer service to be met lock in 1993. This number was at its before they issue a pier licence. peak in 1989 when more than 19,500 Commuter services on the river have craft passed through the lock. There has been well documented and they are always l^een significantly more small supported by the PLA and those who unpowered craft travelling through manage the river, including The River Teddington than most other Thames Thames Working Group, but a service locks. which is financially viable has not yet been found. At present a 'commuter' Boat movements through the half-tide lock at Richmond (controlled by the service is provided by the passenger PLA) does not reflect traffic on the river boats, and another is subsidised as part as most craft pass when the tide is in. of the Canary Wharf development. In Many craft never travel through addition there are private water taxi Richmond to the fully tidal Thames as services. they feel apprehensive and * Cruise Liners inexperienced in negotiating the The PLA operate 4 moorings for cruise Tideway. Most hire cruiser operators do liners at Tower Bridge, and 1 at not allow those using their craft to pass Greenwich. through Teddington. Those cruisers which do venture onto expensive, especially in marinas. the Tideway often are not sure where Unknown to many boaters, the PLA do they can find visitor mooring, and there allow overnight mooring on their piers, if is a view that visitors to the Tideway are it is arranged in advance. 'forgotten about’. Even with the availability of PLA piers, there is still a need for additional, * Moorings on the Tideway accessible temporary mooring, as well as There are approximately 1500 moorings better promotion of what is currently on the Tideway, upstream of the Thames available on piers and in marinas. Barrier. The PLA own and manage much of the river bed to the mean high water Piers. There are a total of 23 piers on the mark and they licence all stmclures in Tideway (above the Barrier), 10 of which the river, including moorings which are owned by the PLA, who issue require a stmcture in the river. In 1994 licences to craft who wish to use their there were 800 moorings on the main piers on a regular basis, many of which channel, 540 of which are permanent are passenger craft. The busiest piers are moorings licensed by the PLA. In those which service popular tourist areas, addition there are 117 PLA owned i.e. Westminster, Charing Cross, Tower moorings leased for private vessels, 56 of and Greenwich. Least popular are on which are currently vacant. A fun her 53 the south bank of the river and are only moorings are leased to commercial used in the summer season, i.e. Kew, operators, another 82 remain in PLA use Richmond, Putney, Festival and Lambeth. and arc available for temporary mooring.

Most moorings on the Tideway are located offshore, without shore access. These are not always convenient and a significant number are vacant. Piers also provide moorings and in some cases these are occupied by residential craft.

Marinas: As well as moorings on the main channel there are 6 marinas above the Thames Barrier which offer a total of 700 moorings. In a survey of commercial operators on the Thames, 62% of those on the Tideway said they had enquiries for moorings in 1992, with 37% saying they had vacancies.

Temporary) Mooring: One of the most common complaints from those who cruise on the Tideway is the shortage of temporary mooring. Even where it does exist, it seems that those who may need to use it do not know about it. There is also a perception that it is prohibitively "3 5 " Several of the PLA piers do need the local economy with 83% stopping replacing, but additional income is lo shop and the average spend per required to cover the cost. The PLA boat per clay being £48. Those in hire would like to combine pier craft tend to spend more than those in reconstruction with commercial their own boats. development but have not yet been * The key feature that attracts people to granted planning permission for a mixed boating on the Thames is the peace commercial scheme. and tranquillity; the number of sites to see; and the beauty of the river itself. 4.3. Who Boats on the Thames? There are few complaints, and these When preparing a Recreation Strategy it are focused on the cost of mooring is important to talk to existing users to fees and the behaviour of other users. find out their usage patterns, their likes and dislikes and their views on future * Their experience of the river could be developments. To tills end a survey was improved by the provision of better carried out on the non-tidal Thames information, especially details of tourist during a six week period in the summer attractions and local information for of 1993. Over 300 boaters’ were hirers who are not familiar with the interviewed at 17 different points on the areas around the Thames. There was Thames between Lechlade and also a call for improvements in Teddington. The primary target of the facilities such as showers, toilets and survey was cruisers, although those in litter collection. As with the survey of other boats were interviewed when they canoe clubs which use the Thames, were available. This section summarises there were complaints about access to the results, and the conclusions have the river for small craft, i.e. slipways been used to help formulate future plans and launching sites. for the river. (See Appendix 4 for * A significant number of those in hire questionnaire and full tabulated results). cruisers are 'regulars’ in that they have hired a boat on the Thames before, 4.3.1. Key Points from Survey and 86% say they would hire again. * Cruising on the Thames is dominated by those in middle and older age. There are relatively few craft with children under 16, and most parties consist of couples. Boaters also tend to be in the higher social classes and live in the Thames Valley.

* For over 50%. the cruise on the Thames is their main holiday. The average daily cruising time is 4-5 hours and the most popular mooring sites are either in a remote part of the river or next to a pub.

* The boaters contribute significantly to 4.3.2. Summary facilities for visiting craft, or at least a The overriding views from this survey lack of information about their location. was a genera) satisfaction with the non- Most craft going onto the Tideway were tidal Thames for those in cruisers. Any in transit, rather than going to enjoy the problems were related to a lack of basic river in London. facilities such as toilets and showers, and It is important to highlight the amount the difficulty in finding local information that those on boats spend in the shops, on the Thames and its environment. pubs and restaurants along the river. Both of these issues have been raised by They make a significant contribution to other river users. local economies. Although the survey did not include The key messages arising from this boaters in the tidal Thames, respondents survey will be reflected in the policies, who had cruised onto the Tideway had recommendations and actions in Section perceived that there was a lack of 10. E C T I O N 5

COMMERCIAL LEISURE ON THE THAMES

COMMERCIAL LEISURE ON THE THAMES

oday the non-tidal Thames is the services these businesses provide are almost exclusively used as a vital to the infrastructure of the river. leisure resource, providing Consequently planning restrictions are T being imposed on the use of riverside enjoyment to thousands of locals and tourists who walk along it, fish in it, land. Although not always popular, these cruise, canoe, sail and row on it. planning controls are trying to sustain traditional services along the Thames. Although the use of the river as a commercial transport route has all but In preparing a Recreation Strategy for the disappeared, except in the lower reaches Thames, it is important to ensure that the of the tidal Thames, there is still an providers of these important services are important commercial industry on the encouraged to maintain their businesses. non-tidal river which provides the Finance is a key constraint and achieving infrastructure necessary to keep the river improvements will require negotiation alive. Most of the commercial operators l:>etween Local Authorities, the NRA and are dependent on the leisure user, the operators. providing facilities and services such as marinas, boatyards, hire cruise bases, 5.2. Consulting Commercial Operators passenger boats, even pubs and hotels As pan of the consultation process in on the river bank, all of which are preparing the Recreation Strategy, integral to the success of leisure on the commercial leisure operators on the Thames. Thames were sent a questionnaire asking about the facilities and services they 5.1. Recent History provide, and what they believed were In recent years the commercial operators the key issues on the Thames. A total of on the Thames have been subject to 89 questionnaires w'ere circulated, with increasing pressures. The recession and 51 being completed and returned, a 57% the subsequent decline in boat traffic has response rate. (See Appendix 5 for adversely affected business. The hire questionnaire and full tabulated results.) cruise companies in particular have experienced a decline in the number of 5.2.1. Working on the Thames customers. There is a diverse range of companies supplying services on and along the During the late 1980's the pressure on Thames. These range from mooring Thameside businesses came from facilities, to boat building and repair. The another source - the demand for housing geographic distribution of these services developments along the river. Struggling varies as the Thames flows from quiet boatyards were tempted by lucrative rural areas, to densely populated urban offers for their land and consequently towns (illustrated in Table 4). The largest numerous facilities, including service concentration of commercial operators is points for fuel and craft maintenance, in the Lower Thames, between Staines were lost to private housing and Teddington, with 37% of the total. developments. This is not surprising as the area is Local Authorities are now’ realising that densely populated and the river banks are accessible throughout most of this offered by a quarter of operators, all of stretch. Only 9% of companies are found which are based on the non-tidal upstream of Goring and all but a few of Thames. these are downstream of Oxford. * The economic climate has had a The tidal Thames is home to 28% of the serious detrimental impact on commercial leisure operators on the commercial operators. Strict planning river, with a concentration of these controls are also a problem, upstream of Putney. Further downstream particularly in the more rural areas of the river remains a commercial transport the river. route and the amount of leisure traffic * There can be conflict between drops significantly below Hammersmith recreational and commercial users, Bridge. especially on the tidal Thames.

Table 4: Location of Water-Based Commercial Leisure Operators on the Thames

AREA Total No. of Total % of Respondents Companies Companies to Quest. % Source to Goring 8 9 12 Goring to Staines 23 26 33 Staines to Teddington 33 37 24 Teddington to Barrier 25 28 31

Overcrowding, excessive wash and 5.2.2. Key Points from Survey lack of cooperation are the main * Providing moorings is the core activity problems. of most commercial operators on the * As with all outdoor activities, the river. Although almost half said there weather can cause significant problems was a demand for additional moorings, for many of the commercial businesses, over a third of operators had empty especially the day hire and passenger berths in 1993- One comment boats operations. summarised the moorings issue, ‘there are insufficient moorings on the Thames at reasonable rates’.

* Boat building and repairs, waste disposal and fuel provision are the key services on the Thames. The new restrictions on petrol supply are causing serious problems for operators and leading to a shortage in some areas, particularly in the Upper Thames.

* In 1994 there were 360 hire cruisers, plus 158 day hire craft. These were

40 * There is a strong feeling that the day hire craft, and for smaller craft in ‘authorities’, both local and national general. government, are not interested in the * Several operators on the Tideway river. High rents and rates are causing mentioned the lack of piers and more financial difficulties, as is current general facilities for visiting craft. legislation.

* Increases in the cost of NRA craft 5.3. Encouraging Cooperation registration and other navigation Those who operate their businesses on charges were mentioned by a diverse and along the Thames often feel that range of commercial operators, not they are not included in decision making only with regards to their own boats on the management of the river. They but in that boating on the Thames has provide an infrastructure which is vital to now ibecome too expensive for many the success of all leisure activities, and people. they are a very important part of the boating tradition on the Thames. * Lock closures and repairs were Although the policies within this strategy mentioned by several operators who may not fully satisfy all the needs of the feel the extended closures seriously commercial operators, it is hoped that a undermine their business. Irregular level of communication and cooperation water levels were also mentioned. will be achieved which involves all river * The general lack of facilities for users, including those for whom the customers along the river and at lock Thames provides a livelihood. sites causes problems for customers in E C T I O N 6

REVIEWING THE THAMES

E C T I O N 6

REVIEWING THE THAMES

efore recommending policies and Also running close to the Thames in this actions for the Thames it is area are the remains of the Thames and important to understand and Severn Canal, which was opened in 1789 B to link the Thames navigation with the appreciate its physical nature, and the planning conditions which affect it. The Stroud water Canal, and on to the river next 4 sections describe the physical Severn. The canal ran parallel to the nature of the Thames and its valley, and river until it entered the Thames at summarises the planning policies and Inglesham, near Lechlade. management plans which the riparian Of significance for the future is the councils have for the Thames. For the proposal by the Cotswold Canals Trust to purposes of this Strategy the river has reopen the Canal, both for navigation been divided into 4 areas: Upper, and as a public amenity. Some work has Middle, Lower and Tidal Thames. been done but the project needs both policy and financial commitment from 6.1. Area 1: The Upper Thames * Source to the managing authorities. Much of the Goring canal towpath remains intact and is This area covers fil miles, a very long popular for walking. There will be stretch of river, so for ease of reference it significant recreational impact if/when will be described in 3 sections: Source to the canal is reopened. Lech lade; Lech lade to Oxford; Oxford to Goring. 6.2.2. Cotswold Water Park Between the Source and the first major 6.2. The Source to Lechlade settlement of Cricklade, the Thames is a (23 miles) small stream lost among the vast expanses of the Cotswold Water Park. 6.2.1. The Source This forms one of the largest recreational The official source of the River Thames water spaces in the south of England, is known as Thames Head, and is covering 22 square miles, with more than situated close lo the village of Kemble in 120 lakes. The after-use of 60% of these Gloucestershire. It is marked by a Stone has not yet been decided. To date 11 and for several miles downstream it is dry in all but severe flood conditions.

As a visitor attraction, the Source is very low key. Some people visit via the nearby Thames Head pub, where the landlord issues route maps to the Source on request. The launching of the Thames Path will increase awareness of the area, resulting in more visitors. This will provide an opportunity to mark the Source more significantly, in a way which compliments the surrounding environment. lakes have been designated as the conference and leisure centre, on what is Cotswold Water Park SSSI, and over 60 called the Gateway site. A more sports lakes are included in English Nature's orientated proposal is for a regatta ‘Conservation Zone’ due to their course of internationally recognised ornithological importance. A Nature dimensions for both rowing and Conservation Strategy has been written canoeing. for the Water Park which recommends a With so many large expanses of water, zoning policy for the management of the the Water Park has a smothering effect site. on the Thames, which is not easily The Water Park is managed by the accessible in the area. For the Cotswold Water Park Joint Committee, communities of Ashton Keynes and who represent, among others, the Summerford Keynes the Thames is just a surrounding Local Authorities. They are village stream and most visitors to the responsible for public amenities within Water Park do not realise the Thames the Water Park, including Neigh Bridge flows through it. and Keynes Country Parks. 6.2.3. Cricklade All forms of on-water recreation are Cricklade is the first town on the Thames found in the Water Park, which is the and its Town Bridge is the Head of main focus for water sports and Navigation. Although there is a public countryside recreation in the area. It has right of navigation downstream of also become a haven for naturalists, Cricklade, the river is still narrow and is particularly bird watchers. These suitable only for canoes and dinghies. In activities are growing in popularity and the past there have been moves to are being encouraged in the Water Park. improve the navigation between In the past there have been discussions Lechlade and Cricklade by building 3 on linking the lakes within the Park, and new locks. The scheme was opposed, with the river, to create an environment primarily in the interests of nature like the Norfolk Broads. However, the conservation. hydrological aspects of such a scheme need careful consideration. The area around Cricklade remains agricultural land in private ownership. To There are plans to increase the the north west of the town is North recreational use of the Water Park, the Meadow, an SSSI and National Nature most significant proposal being the Reserve. The meadow contains many Lakewoods holiday village development. rare plants, the most significant being the Although this development does not Snake's Head Fritillary. North Meadow is cross the river but remains on the north not a public open space, although there bank, it will ultimately affect the Thames is access via public rights of way. and access to it. Work on this project has not yet begun. Between Cricklade and Lechlade the Thames becomes more mature as it Another project which is already under flows through flood plains which are way is the Watermark holiday village, often underwater in winter. It passes the based on one of the lakes. Among village of Castle Eaton and the first several other proposals within the Water Thameside pub, the Red Lion. Further Park is the development of a hotel, downstream is Kempsford, a village with Path provides a focus for walkers, both very poor access to the river, as most of the dedicated long distance walkers who the riparian land is in private ownership. appreciate the remote and rural nature of the Path in this area, and the locals who The next significant feature is the entry use the walks around the Thames on a point of the old Thames and Severn regular basis. North Meadow near Canal at the Roundhouse, Inglesham. Crick lade provides a focus, especially in This is the normal head of navigation for May when the fritillarics are in bloom. powered boats on the Thames. The river Coin joins the Thames close to the For the majority who prefer shorter Roundhouse. walks and want to be close to facilities, Lechlade has become the honeypot for 6.2.4. Lechlade visitors to the Thames in this area. It is A few hundred yards downstream of the only site in the area where both Inglesham is Lechlade, the first major visual and physical access to the river is town on the Thames and it is marked as good. The key site in Lechlade is such by a significant amount of water­ Riverside Park (formerly known as front activity. Inglesham Access Area), a large area of open space, leased by the owners, ' v As the upstream limit for most powered Oxford University, via Wiltshire County craft, Lechlade has the first boatyard on Council to Thamesdown Borough . the Thames, Riverside Lechlade. This Council. On sunny weekends in summer provides permanent mooring facilities in it becomes very busy. A pay and display a marina, and the hire of day boats, car parking system was introduced for which is very popular with the numerous the first time in 1992. Between April and visitors to Lechlade. Access to the river September 30,000 cars used the car park, bank is very good, primarily focused in a with over half of these being at the public park, known as Riverside Park, weekend. managed by Thamesdown Borough Council. On busy summer days hundreds The designation of the Great Western of people use the park as a playground. Community Forest in an area around Swindon could have some impact on the Lechlade is a very popular destination for Thames as it is proposed to increase the boaters and there are informal visitor average minimum tree cover from 2% to moorings in several places along the 25% in the Upper Thames Forest. It bank. These are soon to be added to as should boost informal recreation as with the NRA are providing more formal 24- it will come better access, managed in a hour moorings upstream of Halfpenny way which is sensitive to the Bridge. environment.

6.3. Recreational Use of the Thames: Source to 6.3.2. Boating Lechlade As there is no right of navigation on the 6.3.1. Informal Recreation Thames above Crick lade, the use of The most popular use of the riverside in boats is almost non-existent. Canoes can this area is for informal countryside use the river when it is in full stream but recreation - walking, picnicking and just only with the permission of the riparian being in the countryside. The Thames landowner, liven where navigation rights work to be done in the Upper Thames begin at Cricklade, boating activity is to complete the route which will be limited to small craft. Access points onto officially opened in 1996. the river are few and far between, with Opportunity• to develop circular routes Cricklade having the only slipway which, linked to the Thames Path, with to the uninformed, is difficult to find and information and facilities for walkers, parking is inadequate. focused on riverside towns and villages; to create a focus at the Source which 6.3.4. A n g lin g will be the beginning or the end of the The relatively boat free-waters above walk for those completing the Trail; to Lechlacle are popular with anglers, link the Thames Path to the towpath of although it only takes place where the the Thames and Severn Canal, and to the riparian land owners have let their Ridgeway National Trail via the River Ray fishing rights. Parkway. As the river is remote from roads and there are few bridging points, anglers GREAT WESTERN FOREST: 5-10% will lie often have a long walk to the river. close to the Thames. Improving access would not only help Opportunity: to feature the Thames in anglers but also encourage other river the forest, enhance it as a recreational users. resource and increase access to it.

6.3.5. Recreational Sites and THAMES AND SEVERN CANAL: A plan Opportunities: Source to Lechlade to reopen the canal as a navigation linking the rivers Thames and Severn. LAKEWOODS: In 1991 planning Opportunity: to develop the recreational permission was granted for a Lakewoods use of the towing path, which is a public holiday village within the Cotswold right of way, linking it to the Thames Water Park. Path at Thames Head. When the Opportunity: to ensure that the holiday navigation reopens there will be park development enhances the Thames opportunities for moorings and other visually and physically, rather than facilities for boaters and canal users in ignores it. general. WATER PARK LINK: As yet there has been no development of a proposal to 6.3.6. Summary create a link between the water spaces In general the Thames above Lechlade is in the Cotswold Water Park. not heavily used for recreation, and has Opportunity: If this development should Income known among walking happen there may be an opportunity to enthusiasts as a remote rural area where enhance the Thames as a recreational you can get away from people and the resource, rather than losing it among the bustle of the riverside honeypots. In other water spaces. preparing policies for recreation in this THE THAMES PATH: The Countryside area the balance between existing use, Commission is coordinating the creation potential use and the natural of the Thames National Trail which will environment must be maintained as the run along the river from the Source to remoteness and peaceful nature of the the Thames Barrier. There is still much environment are an attraction. Any development of activity should be decisions have not yet been made. sensitive to the danger of changing the The National Trust's land ownership characteristic " continues along the south bank, and ‘feel’ of the area. includes the island of Eaton Hastings. Formerly it was the site of the Anchor 6.4. Lechlade to Oxford (Osney) pub which burned down in the 1970's (30 miles) and has never been replaced. A public footbridge joins the banks at this point. 6.4.1. Buscot Moorings in the backwater of the island As the Thames leaves the bustle of are leased to a small boat club. Lechlade it flows through St John's lock, the first or last lock depending on your 6.4.2. Kelmscott perspective. It is a popular destination The village of Kelmscott, although not for those who take the short walk from directly on the banks of the river, is Halfpenny Bridge in Lechlade and has close to it. It was home to William Morris the added attraction of being home to and his house is open to the public. the statue of Old Father Thames. Close There are the remains of a sign on the to the lock is the Trout pub, which offers bank encouraging boats to moor and moorings and dry docking facilities. visit the local pub, the Plough, but in A major landowner in this area is the general Kelmscott does not make much National Trust and as part of their Buscot use of its Thames frontage. Estate they provide a small car park and In the long stretch between Buscot and picnic area close to the river on the Grafton locks, the river flows through south bank, although access along the this flat, rural, agricultural area of river is principally via the Thames Path Oxfordshire without much disturbance. on the north bank. Grafton lock itself is very remote and the Buscot lock is located close to Buscot Lock Meadows are designated an SSSI. Village, which has a second National Any activity and development is Trust car park. Relatively good access concentrated at the bridging points and makes it a well visited site in summer, Radcot Bridge, which spans over an with use being made of the right of island on the Thames, is a local access which exists across the weir to honeypot. Morlands Brewery own The the opposite bank. The popularity of the Swan pub located close to the bridge on site does, however, cause problems for the north bank of the bridge. The some of the local residents who do not brewery also own and manage much of appreciate the intrusion of visitors. This the land immediately around the bridge. is making it difficult for the National It is used for various forms of recreation Trust to install new toilets for visitors to including permanent and temporary the village. moorings, parking for both cars and touring caravans, camping, angling A future development site close to (including facilities for disabled), and day Buscot is the redundant Thames Water hire dinghies. The island has been under Treatment Works located upstream of scrutiny in recent years due to the Buscot Lock. Various uses have been enlargement of winter storage areas on discussed including residential, but the river bank. The next bridging point is Tadpole Windrush, meets the Thames at Bridge and here again it is the site of a Newbridge, where two popular pubs, pub, the Trout. As with the Swan, the The Rose Revived and The Maybush are landlord encourages recreational activity, sited on either side of the bank. Both this time angling and camping. Between provide public access points to the river Radcot and Tadpole Bridges are two bank and permanent moorings for a remote locks, Radcot and Rushey. limited number of boats. In the past this Although the land close to the river is was the site of a Thames ferry. unpopulated there is a long established foot-link across the river called Old Mans 6.4.4. North moor Bridge. This forms an important link in The river downstream of Newbridge is the Thames Path. without a road bridge until Eynsham. The only permanent river crossing is the Probably the remotest lock on the Harts Weir footbridge. Subsequently the Thames is Shifford, although the newly valley in between remains remote opened Thames Path footbridge will agricultural land, with the village of increase access to the lock area. The Appleton sited above the flood plain. A location, and the conservation orientated wooded area close to the river, known management style of a local farmer make as Appleton Lower Common, is Shifford Lock an ideal 'wilderness' area. designated as an SSSI. There is another Just upstream is an English Nature lock at Northmoor, although Northmoor designated SSSI and National Nature village is several miles from the Thames Reserve, known as Chimney Meadow's. and access from the village to it is poor.

6.4.3. Newbridge Downstream of North moor is the well Between Shifford lock and the next known caravan park development at inhabited area at Newbridge, the Thames Bablock Hythe. It begins at the Ferry flows across flat flood plains with very pub. recently refurbished but not always little interruption. The Great Brook, a open as its location is remote. The old man-made channel, flows into the river ferry point still remains and on some from the village of Shifford, higher in the summer days the pub operates a ferry valley. A key Thames tributary, the for its customers. The NRA control a number of free 24 hour moorings just Oxford Cruisers, an important hire boat upstream of the ferry. base, is located just upstream of Eynsham Bridge. It is the most westerly The caravan park is a linear hire boat base on the Thames, and the development along the river, with last diesel station before Lechlade. The associated permanent mooring sites banks around the boat base are filled along the river bank. It was developed in with moorings and the area is generally the 1960’s and dominates the Thames in busy. the area. In the few miles between Eynsham and 6.4.5. P in k h ill Oxford, the Thames is bordered on the The NRA have in recent years been south bank by Wytham Woods, an SSSI carrying out a programme of tree owned by Oxford University who control planting and the construction of access. Other SSSI's in this area are conservation pools in this area of the Cassington Meadow, Pixey and Yarnton Thames, to encourage the natural habitat Meads. The River Evenlode enters the and associated wildlife. This has been Thames just upstream of Kings lock, taken a stage further in Pinkhill Meadow which is the last manually operated lock where a wetland area has been created going downstream. The Oxford Canal to provide wildlife habitats, particularly joins the Thames via the lock backwater for wetland birds. from the Dukes Cut navigation channel, Pinkhill Meadow is situated close to providing an important link from the Farmoor Reservoir and was jointly Thames to the canal system. funded by Thames Water Utilities Ltd. It The Wolvercote Pit, an old gravel has developed as one of the best working now owned by the NRA, lies wetland habitats in the area and as it has just to the north of the Thames and is been monitored since its inception, it is a used as a depository for dredgings from valuable source of information. At the river. To protect and enhance it for present enthusiasts can buy a key which wildlife a conservation management plan gives access to a bird hide. There is also has been produced for the area. good access around the perimeter of reserve, with information boards giving 6.4.7. Godstow details about the project. Once the Thames reaches Godstow it becomes much more accessible and the 6.4.6. Eynsham The village of Hynsham and its historic banks are a very popular visitor toll bridge is the next centre of destination, especially the Trout pub at population. Eynsham was once a busy Godstow Bridge. The pub owns the now port on the Thames, with a channel inaccessible Peacock Island which lies in leading off the river up to Eynsham the centre of the stream. On the south Wharf. Although the wharf cut is not bank Godstow lock is overlooked by the usable in its current condition, there are remains of Godstow Nunnery. proposals for the development of Port Meadow, a large area of common permanent moorings close to the old land designated as an SSSI, runs along wharf. Pinkhill and Eynsham locks are the north bank of the Thames to the both close to Eynsham village. centre of Oxford, while Binsey Mead between Radcot and Northmoor, where runs along the south bank. Together they local populations are sited away from the form an excellent area of accessible river, access is very poor and only keen open space around the Thames in walkers venture very far. Oxford. Oxford City Council provide car Access is concentrated around the parks at each end of Port Meadow, bridging points, especially Radcot, which are heavily used by those wishing Tadpole and Newbridge where the to enjoy the river environment. Until added attraction of pubs draws visitors to recently the City Council operated a stroll along the adjacent river bank. Even bathing station at Wolvercote, which was in these areas only a limited number of one of the few official swimming spots people who use the Thames bank left on the Thames. In the summer they wander very far. provided lifeguards but due to the expense involved this has been stopped. Access onto lock islands and across weirs has opened up some popular 6.4.8. West Oxford circular routes along and around the The Oxford end of Port Meadow is river. There is scope to develop these known as the Medley area and it is circular routes incorporating local home to Bossoms Boatyard, a long- villages and providing facilities away established service on the Thames. Just from the river bank. opposite in a side channel is the Medley Closer to Oxford, which is the only Boat Station, with its temporary major centre of population on the residential moorings now operated by Thames in this area, the use of the bank the City Council. A series of footbridges intensifies dramatically. The common connect the Binsey bank with Port land of Port Meado, and Binsey Mead Meadow, providing an important link in are very' popular for walking, horse a popular circular walk. riding, picnicking, flying kites, and As the Thames continues quietly through generally having outdoor fun. Oxford it passes behind the city, under the notoriously low Osney Bridge. The 65.2. Angling stretch of bank just upstream of Osney The Thames between Lechlade and lock provides mooring (free for 24 Oxford provides some of the most hours) for many of the cruisers which popular fishing areas of the Thames, not visit Oxford. A cut from the Osney reach least because boating activity is less gives a second connection with the dominant above Oxford. Most of the Oxford Canal. fishing rights are leased to clubs, who sell day tickets to casual anglers. 6.5. Recreational Use of the Thames: Lechlade Although access is poor the anglers have to O xford a detailed knowledge of the area and have established agreements with 6.5.1. Inform al Recreation landowners. The use of the Thames bank for informal For many years access to 20 Thames recreation continues downstream of weirs for fishing has been available on Lechlade, with walking being the main permit from the NRA and its activity. In the very remote areas predecessors. Above Oxford permits are Hire Craft. Oxford Cruisers, who are available on Buscot, Grafton, Radcot, based in Eynsham, is the only cruiser Rushey, Shifford, and Eynsham Weirs. hire base upstream of Oxford and is an important commercial site on the 6.5.3. Boating Thames. Cruisers: The Thames above Oxford is Canoeing; The most westerly canoe club renowned for being quiet with relatively on the Thames is located at Tadpole little boat traffic, confirmed by the lock Bridge. Although canoes are popular on movement figures for the locks. One of the quieter stretches of river above the main reasons for this drop in boat Oxford, there are relatively few access traffic is the low span of Osney bridge points where they can be easily (7'6") which is impassable to many larger launched, or where car parking is craft. In recent years there has been an available. increase in the popularity of narrow boats, and many more have lx;en seen Sailing: The most westerly sailing club on the upper reaches of the Thames and on the Thames is based along Binsey the Oxford Canals. Mead at Medley. There is very little other sailing on the Upper Thames. There are several sites of permanent moorings in this area, making a total of Rowing: The Thames in Oxford is approximately 540 above Oxford. The synonymous with rowing. The core of key mooring sites are Radcot Bridge, rowing activity takes place on a very Bablock Hythe, Eynsham, and Godstow. limited stretch of water between Folly The Medley Boat Station and Osney Bridge and Iffley Lock, although rowers Marina provide an additional 190 also use the stretch between Godstow permanent moorings. Facilities for and Osney. The University rowers boaters are few and far between, as dominate but there is a strong tradition expected in a rural area. Fuel supplies of school and local rowing clubs in are available at Riverside Lechlade and Oxford. Upstream of Godstow rowing is Eynsham. St. Johns, Rushey and very limited although Cokethorpe School Eynsham locks have water and sanitary have their boat house close to stations. Although all locks have mens' Newbridge. toilets available on request, there are no Scouting: Several of the lock islands fully 'public' facilities. (Eynsham, Kings and Godstow) are used It is important to mention the residential by local Scouts for camping and general boats which are moored at Medley Boat outdoor activities. There are little or no Station, close to Port Meadow. There are facilities provided for them or for few residential moorings on the non-tidal campers in general, although some of Thames and this is the most westerly them are advertised as campsites. The residential site. There has been much NRA are soon to develop better facilities controversy surrounding the site in terms for campers, beginning with a scheme to of planning permission and it has improve facilities at Rushey Lock. recently been taken over by Oxford City Council. There are also a number of residential boats on the canals in and around Oxford. 6.5.4. Recreational Sites and Thames Path there is a need for Opportunities: Lechlade to Oxford overnight facilities, especially in the upper reaches where villages are often 13USCOT: A riverside village on a far away from the river. National Trust estate which is a popular Opportunity: to create camping facilities local destination for anglers, walkers and and amenities for visitors at suitable sites visitors to the river. including NRA locks. Opportunity: To develop better visitor access and facilities in conjunction with 6.5.5. Summary the redevelopment of the redundant Downstream of Lechlade the Thames Thames Water Utilities Ltd site. The matures and becomes more recognisable impact on local residents must be as a major river. Its key function in terms considered. of recreation is as a feature of natural THE THAMES PATH: The path in this beauty for the relatively few walkers and area is 90% complete, although there is boaters to appreciate. Its remoteness, still a locally controversial bridge to be even from local villages, leave it constructed at Bloomers Hole, close to undisturbed for much of this stretch. The Buscot. A new bridge at Shifford Lock only development is around the bridging was completed in August 199^- points and even that is low key. Opportunity: to create and promote local It is not until it reaches the outskirts of access routes to the Thames Path from Oxford that the Thames begins to local villages. become more important as an active PINKHILL MEADOW: Thames Water recreational resource for the population Utilities Ltd and NRA wetland site. of a major city. Opportunity: to sensitively develop the The key issues with regards to recreation educational and recreational potential of in this part of the Upper Thames are: the site, with links to Farmoor Reservoir. access; public amenities and facilities; There is the common dilemma of how to fuel supplies; information; conflict with encourage access without interfering conservation; conflict with existing users. with the natural habitat.

EYNSHAM WHARF: A redundant wharf 6.6. Oxford to Goring with a now heavily silted channel (28 miles) leading to the river. Opportunity: to develop permanent 6.6.1. Oxford moorings and riverside facilities, Oxford is the first city on the Thames although this must consider the value of and with it come several bridging points the wharf stream as a wildlife habitat. and access routes to and along the river. The Thames flows behind rather through CAMPING: The use of NRA lock islands the centre of Oxford and because of this for camping has been available for some it is often overlooked as a recreational time, but facilities are poor and until resource. It is only where the Thames recently they have not been promoted. integrates with the University at Christ The NRA have just produced a leaflet Church Meadows that its profile is raised. detailing places to camp along the Thames. With the development of the Folly Bridge is the main focus for public months cruisers, skiffs and punts. With so many boats on the river there is bound to be conflict with other users. To help reduce the conflict Oxford University now operate a compulsory coxswain training programme which has been successful.

6.6.3. If f le y to Sandford The towpath from Donnington Bridge to Iffley is a well trodden route and the Isis pub is a much visited watering hole. The waters are busy all year round with boating activity in the city, with rowers, and the banks with anglers and passenger services provided by Salters, walkers. Although the residential areas and the opportunity to hire punts and of Oxford are not far away, there is a skiffs. The confluence of the River sense of 'countryside' close to the river, Cherwell also provides added interest especially in Iffley Meadows, which are and in the summer months the area is a a designated SSSI. hive of activity. Another tradition of the Oxford Thames is rowing and the stretch Iffley lock and its weirs has pedestrian between Folly Bridge and Iffley lock is access and forms part of an important home water to over 3000 rowers. route to the village of Iffley. The lock has boat rollers, which are very well Although the Thames is well known in used by the rowers of Oxford. Oxford by those who use it, its location away from the busy city centre, which 6.6.4. Sandford has so much to offer the tourist, detracts As the Thames leaves the city the first somewhat from the river. For some the village it flows past is Sandford where fact that the Thames is a forgotten or there is another lock, adjacent to the perhaps unneeded asset in terms of Kings Arms pub. On the south bank, set tourism, is a positive feature ensuring back from the river is the village of that there are quiet 'remote' areas in the Kennington. There is access to the river city. For many others the Thames is an and lock from Kennington with a small unknown quantity and access to it is not car park, which is well known to anglers always obvious. and canoeists but is not obvious to the uninitiated. 6.6.2. The Isis Reach The reach between Oxford and Iffley is As soon as it leaves the Oxford commonly know as the Isis. The banks conurbation, the Thames very quickly are dominated by the boat-houses, enters the rural environment again. It slipways and landing stages of the flows virtually unnoticed l)ehind the college rowing clubs. It is no surprise villages of Nunenham Courtney and that this is one of the busiest reaches on Rad ley. the river, not just with rowers but Between Sandford and Abingdon there anglers, canoeists and in the summer is little development along the river, with the exception of Radley College at Abingdon, and the Thames & Severn boathouses. Although-physically not as Canal at Cricklacle. remote as the Thames above Oxford, in The focus on river activities continues some ways it is just as inaccessible. downstream, and includes Abingdon Marina which is the most recent large 6.6.5. A bingdon development on the Upper Thames. Abingdon Lock is sited just upstream of Created in a redundant gravel pit, the the town of Abingdon, one of the marina is part of a residential scheme. As traditional Thameside towns where the yet it has not reached its full potential, river takes a front rather than back seat. primarily due to the recent recession. Abingdon Bridge is a focus for access to There are plans for an extension, but this the river, both physically and visually, is unlikely to happen until the existing with car parks, footpaths, parkland and facilities are fully utilised. As part of the amenity areas. Abingdon lock is a development the marina includes a little pleasant walk from the town centre and known public slipway. has become one of the most visited locks on the Thames. 6.6.6. Culham Just upstream of the lock is Swift Ditch, From Abingdon to Wallingford the the site of the first pound lock on the Thames landscape continues as flat, Thames, built on the Thames in 1620. It rural, mostly agricultural land, with the is still visible as a lock and can be seen only villages on the river located at the from the footpath. bridging points. Most of the centres of The importance of the Thames to population are set back in the valley. sustaining and developing Abingdon as a Culham is the first bridging point tourist destination is recognised and downstream of Abingdon. Culham lock services available on the river include has one of the largest lock islands on the passenger trips to Oxford, boat services, Thames, owned by a local farmer. The chandlery, and a hire cruise base. series of weirs in the extensive Visiting craft are encouraged to stop in backwaters are known as Sutton Pools, Abingdon, w he re they visit the tow'n and some of which are popular with local make good use of The Anchor pub at St. people for canoeing. Although there is Helens Wharf. no access onto the lock island via the Just beyond the Wharf is the entrance of lock, there is a route over a footbridge the former Wilts and Berks Canal system. which gives access to the extensive It consisted of two canals, the Wilts & network of paths around the island and Berks, and the North Wilts, with a total weirs, and on to the village of Sutton length of 67 miles. The Wilts ik Berks Courtenay. Canal Amenity Group has been formed Between Culham and the next lock at to protect, conserve and improve the Clifton Hampden the Thames valley is route of the canal system for the benefit dominated by Didcot Power station of the community and environment, with which seems to loom around ever)7 bend the ultimate goal of restoring a in the river. Appleford village is set back continuous navigable waterway linking from the Thames, which is quite remote the Kennet & Avon Canal to the Thames from the road network and access is not obvious. 6.6.7. Clifton Hampden 6.6.9. Benson The lock and bridge at Clifton Hampden Before reaching Wallingford the Thames are the next focus of population and flows behind the village of Benson and activity on the Thames, including The through Benson lock. Just before the Barley Mow pub, a popular riverside lock is Benson Boats, a busy hire cruiser pubT a caravan park, permanent station, boatyard and chandlery. moorings and slipway, all of which are Although close to a main road route, privately owned. Here again the lock the Thames is not very visible in this island is very large and owned by a local area and access is not always obvious, farmer. The backwater is navigable to except via the boatyard. The Plough pub in the village of Long Wittenham. 6.6.10. Wallingford A busy market town, Wallingford has Downstream of Clifton Hampden the good access to the Thames. In 1993 the river landscape changes slightly, with the very busy Wallingford bridge was riverside residential dwellings of Burcot supplemented by a new bypass bridge village along the north bank bringing a further downstream. This has lowered succession of private permanent the volume of traffic going across the old moorings. The south bank continues as bridge and through the town centre. farmland. Wallingford has a large hire cruiser base, 6.6.8. Days Lock boatyard, slipway and a limited number The village of Dorchester is set back of temporary moorings for visitors to the from the river although it is well linked town. The main area of public open to Days lock by footpaths. An important space is Riverside Park which has a landscape feature is Wittenham Clumps seasonal caravan park and campsite, which are managed by a Trust who open air swimming pool, picnic area and encourage public access. A series of car park. This town attracts large crowds footpaths and access across the NRA in summer, although there are no owned lock islands provide very good, passenger services available. popular, public access to the Thames The Thames from Wallingford to Cleeve and across to the village of Little is the longest lock-free stretch on the Wittenham. river. On leaving the town the landscape The river continues through a rural but quickly becomes rural again. Close to the less remote landscape to the town of village of Cholsey, BBONT (Berkshire, Wallingford. Bridging points become Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire more frequent, with a subsequent Naturalist Trust) own a riverside meadow increase in access and activity levels. which is managed as a nature reserve. Many of the private riverside residences' Close by is an old ferry' point which has which are more common as the Thames become one of the few launching points travels downstream, have their own on this part of the river. private moorings. The Shillingford Bridge Although the Thames is slill very rural as Hotel is a popular riverside site, with it flows through South Oxfordshire, it is both visitor and base mooring rights on much less remote than it is upstream of the river bank. Oxford. The villages of North and South 6.7. Recreational Use of the Thames: Oxford to Stoke, and Moulsforcl are close to the Goring Thames and have reasonable local access to it, with an old ferry point at South 6.7.1. Informal Recreation Stoke now an inadequate yet busy As the most densely populated area of slipway. There are also the well known the Upper Thames, the river in Oxford is riverside pubs/restaurants, The Beetle the busiest stretch for recreation. and Wedge at Moulsforcl and Ye Olde Walking, watching, and generally Leatherne Bottel at Cleeve. enjoying the riverbank are very popular all year round, particularly with tourists 6.6.11. G oring in summer. Cleeve lock is on the upstream edge of Outside the city, walking remains very Goring village, although bankside access popular, especially in the more to it is not easy. In contrast Goring lock accessible stretches around Abingdon, is located just by Goring bridge and is Wallingford and Goring. The Thames very popular with visitors. The Path is 95% complete in this area and, attractiveness of the village is added to together with the Ridgeway Path, is by the dramatic landscape of the Goring proving to be popular both with long Gap making Goring, and its sister village distance and casual walkers. Streatley, one of the most popular Access to the river is not always easy, honeypot sites on the Upper Thames. especially between Sandford and The Ridgeway and the Thames Path Abingdon, and again between Clifton National Trails cross the Thames at Hampden and Days lock. Like the Goring, continuing along both banks to Thames above Oxford, remoteness is just downstream of Wallingford. These one of the reasons for poor access, but National Trails and the Streatley Youth as the river banks become more Hostel make the area popular with long populated with private homes, access to distance walkers, as well as informal the public is lost. The other problem is visitors. 'Lock watching' is one of the lack of knowledge of the access that most popular Sunday afternoon activities does exist. In areas where the in Goring. Although car parking close to environment is sensitive low levels of the river is limited, there is a car park in access may be appropriate, but many the centre of the village. other areas could sustain better access than exists at present. The National Trust have land holdings close to the Thames in Streatley. The hill A key honeypot site is Days lock, where side views of the river from Lardon access is via Little Wittenham on the Chase and the Hollies are some of the south bank and Dorchester on the north most dramatic and popular in the bank. The popularity of Wittenham Thames Valley. Clumps adds to the attraction of the river. Other popular sites include Christ Church Meadow, Oxford; Abingdon lock; Riverside Park, Wallingford; and Goring lock. 6.7.2. Angling Most of the rural hanks of the Thames in Issues raised by boaters in this area Oxfordshire are popular with anglers. include the lack of good overnight Fishing rights have been leased by mooring, such as is found at Goring. The landowners to angling clubs. The 40 conflict with rowers in Oxford is an clubs who form the Oxford and District accepted but ongoing problem, as are Angling Association control all the conflicts with anglers. fishing in the Oxford area, although the Hire Craft: There are several hire craft heavy use of the Iffley reach by rowers operators based in the area. Key focal makes angling virtually impossible. The points for the hire industry are remoter areas downstream of Oxford are Abingdon, Benson and Wallingford. The more popular. Anglers would like better Upper Thames is popular for hire craft as access to these remoter areas but they parts of it are rural and remote, yet there realise that better access will bring more are the riverside towns, and Oxford, people and increase the potential for providing facilities. The hirers contribute conflict. Sites which are used as mooring to river traffic in the holiday season and sites for cruisers are out of bounds to as many of them are first-time boaters, anglers, but these are mostly confined to their inexperience can cause conflict. the towns of Abingdon, Wallingford, and Goring. Canoeing: Oxford is home to a water sports training centre based on the 6.7.3. Boating Thames - The Riverside Centre at Cruisers: Downstream of Oxford the Donnington Bridge. Funded jointly by river becomes much busier with cruising the Oxfordshire County Council and traffic. There are several major sites of Oxford City Council, it provides training permanent moorings, including for various water sports, primarily Abingdon. Other major sites of multiple canoeing. Children are the key target for e permanent moorings on the main the various courses that are run but channel are located in Abingdon, Clifton adults are welcome. The centre is Hampden, Shillingford, Wallingford and e located on the very busy Iffley reach so Goring. In total there are 619 permanent there are inevitable conflicts with the moorings between Oxford (Iffley Lock) rowing fraternity (see Appendix 7). and Goring. Downstream from Oxford the number of private residences on the There are other canoe clubs who paddle river increases significantly, and many of on the Thames, many of them using the these have private moorings on their weir pools at Sutton Courtney for Thames frontage. whitewater training. In addition to the clubs there are numerous individual Cruising activity on the river in general canoeists who use this area of the river, becomes busier as it flows downstream. putting their craft on the water at the Lock traffic figures (1993) demonstrate few well-known access points around this with 6000 craft movements at bridges and close to towns. There is a Godstow' Lock, increasing to over 9000 at call from canoeists to improve ponage at Goring lock. Iffley lock is busier than locks and create better access routes and either Osney or Sandford due to the facilities. movement of local traffic in the Isis reach. Sailing: There are only a few sailing Abingdon. clubs in this area, again located near the Opportunity: to plan for recreational centres of population - Oxford, after- use of the pits where appropriate, Abingdon, Goring. Lack of understanding creating a resource for water recreation of their sport by other users, particularly in the area. The effect would be to move hire craft, cause most problems for some of the sports which occur on the sailors. Thames onto the gravel pits. NAGS HEAD, ABINGDON: A pub on an Rowing: O f all the water sports on the island close to Abingdon Bridge which river rowing dominates in Oxford where closed several years ago and has not there are said lo be 3000 rowers, all been reopened. The site is also used by using the same water space. Although Salters Steamers as their pick up point in the majority of these are University Abingdon. rowers, there are other clubs and schools Opportunity: to improve the site and using the Oxford Thames. The rollers at develop better visitor facilities. Iffley lock are frequently used by crews using downstream waters for training. WILTS & BERKS CANAL RESTORATION: An Amenity Group has been set up to There are rowing clubs at Radley promote the restoration of this canal College, Abingdon and Wallingford system. although the use of the river is much Opportunity: although the timescale is less intensive in these stretches. All have long, the restoration of the canal would their own boat-houses and accesses to provide a valuable countryside resource the river. The key issue for rowers is and ultimately an important circular conflict with other users. This can extend navigation route. to the bankside as coaches cycling along the bank come into conflict with walkers SOUTH WEST OXFORDSHIRE and anglers. RESERVOIR PROPOSAL: This project is now on hold for 5 years, but if it is ever 6.7.4. Recreational Sites and completed it will have enormous Opportunities: Oxford to Goring potential for recreation. OXFORD CITY: A proposal for the Opportunity: to provide a local and development of riverside land behind regional base for rowing, sailing, angling Oxford Ice Rink includes opening access and canoeing, as well as a countryside to the river and the building of a resource for informal recreation. This riverside restaurant. would help ease congestion on the river. Opportunity: to regenerate a disused area of the Thames, increasing visual and 6.7.5. Summary physical access to the river. Oxford marks a point of change on the Thames. It is the first large population on ABINGDON MARINA: Waterfront the river as it flows downstream and as it housing and marina development. is such an attractive city its population is Opportunity: to increase and promote dramatically increased by tourists. public access to specific parts of the Although not viewed as being central to marina, eg slipway and public moorings. Oxford's appeal, the Thames is a RADLEY GRAVEL PITS: These lie very popular, if underestimated natural close to the Thames upstream of feature. The Iffley reach is famous as one of the Thamesdown Borough Council: busiest stretches of the river, with almost Local Plan (Deposit 1994) all the activity being rowing. Managing West Oxfordshire District Council: the water in this area is an ongoing issue Local Plan (Deposit 1993) which will never be resolved to Vale of White Horse District Council: everyone's satisfaction, but there is Local Plan (Consultation Draft 1993) certainly room for improvements to ease Cherwell District Council: congestion. Local Plan (Deposit 1993) South Oxfordshire District Council: From Oxford downstream the river Local Plan (Deposit 1993) gradually becomes busier with cruising Oxford City Council: craft, which enjoy the rural but less Local Plan Review (Deposit 1993) remote landscape. Bankside activity is concentrated at popular honeypot sites, 6.8.1, Overall E ffe c t o f Existing particularly in ancient towns of Abingdon Planning Policies in the Upper and Wallingford, who use the river as Thames part of their appeal to both locals and All of the Local Authorities in the Upper visitors. Thames, with the exception of Oxford City Council, have responsibility for There is scope for developing walking undeveloped rural areas of the Thames networks to and from the Thames Path, Valley. Without exception the planning linked to public transport and existing policies for the rural Thames reflect the car parking facilities, and improving wish of the councils to retain the river access routes, together with developing valley in its current state, that is as a information for both local residents and unique area of undeveloped countryside. visitors. Protection, conservation, preservation of 6.8. Source to Goring: Planning Policies and the visual amenity and a presumption Strategies for Leisure on the Thames against any development which will There are 3 County Councils and 6 increase congestion form the core of District Councils who have the most of the river based policies. responsibility for land use planning Boating: Many still quote from the policy around the Upper Thames. ‘Report of the Working Party on River Counties Gloucestershire County Council: County Structure Plan (Second Review October 1992) Wiltshire County Council: North East Wiltshire Structure Plan 1993 Oxfordshire County Council: County Structure Plan 1986-2001 Districts Cotswold District Council: Local Plan (Deposit 1992) North Wiltshire District Council: Local Plan 1993 Thames Leisure Policy 1980’ which peripheral location of the river often advised that new permanent base leads to it being forgotten, and it is moorings should not normally be certainly underestimated as a leisure permitted. There is now a desire to resource. None of the Local Authorities move base moorings off the main has leisure policies for the Thames and channel to back waiters. Any increase in the only contact between river users and the navigability of the Thames above the Leisure Officers is where river based Lechlade is not favoured. clubs lease land from the council. There is little encouragement of the use of the Inform al Recreation: Most of the Local river for water based sports, except for Authorities recognise the value of the the Local Authority funded Riverside Thames as a resource for countryside Centre in Oxford, where resources are recreation, but not many policies actively primarily invested in training young encourage its development for people. recreation. There is support for the route of the Thames Path and although some The numerous clubs in the urban areas Authorities recognise the problems of manage themselves w'ith little contact or poor access, they are unwilling to input from their Local Authority. This encourage development, except in areas may be how many of the clubs wish to where there is some form of established operate, but it is important for Leisure use. Officers to recognise the significance of the Thames as a recreational resource for The policies for the City of Oxford are outdoor activities such as rowing, less restrictive, as would be expected for canoeing, angling, sailing, and walking. an area of the Thames which is already The investment in facilities to help developed and has significant existing participants make the most of the use. The City Council policies encourage Thames may then become a more the use of the river for recreation, important priority. acknowledging its value as open space in an urban area. 6.8.3. Key Issues fo r the Future The policies for other urban areas such Ihe Increasing Popularity of Countryside as Abingdon and Wallingford are Recreation and 'We lhamcs Path: Over similarly less restrictive than equivalent the last few years the demand for access rural area policies, but they do to the countryside for leisure has encourage the maintenance of the increased dramatically, especially in areas character of the river and therefore close to large populations. For the 10 discourage large-scale development on million people who live in the catchment or along the river bank. of the River Thames it is not only a source of water but an important area of 6.8.2. Leisure Policies open space. Although there is existing The Thames is the border for almost all use and a perception among some that the Local Authorities in the Upper there is little capacity for increasing this Thames. Oxford City Council has use, in reality much of the Upper responsibilities for both banks of the Thames is under exposed and therefore river in the city, and part of South under utilised as a resource for Oxfordshire's district crosses the river countryside recreation. The issue which between Wallingford and Moulsford. The needs to be resolved is how to encourage the positive use the area as a recreational resource without causing unacceptable change to the landscape, in other words creating recreational use which is sustainable.

The official opening of the Thames National Trail will undoubtedly increase awareness of the river and even if the numbers completing the Trail are few, there will be an increase in the number of short-distance walkers. From the various studies that have been carried out it is obvious that most of the current must be located off the main channel, be use of the Thames Path and riverside unobtrusive and not significantly affect walks in general is by local people who sensitive wildlife habitats. visit the Thames on a regular basis. The Congestion in Oxford Waters: As already profile of the Thames Path will increase stated the Iffley reach in Oxford is the awareness and Local Authorities will need to respond by reviewing and busiest stretch of water on the Thames. managing access routes, car parks, Rowing dominates, and as w'ell as the signage, toilets and other public facilities. obvious conflicts with other river users, there is tension among rowers, all of 'Ihe nam es and Severn Canal: Although whom want to use the same water space. it is at best a medium term project, if Added to this is the fact that the and when the canal is reopened it will Universities are introducing numerous increase the amount of traffic navigating inexperienced novice rowers every year. on the Upper Thames. The need for Oxford University rowers have tried to temporary moorings, fuel supplies, alleviate some of the conflict by setting information and facilities for boaters will up a coxswain training scheme, others increase and this will require planning would like to see some more radical by both the Navigation Authority and moves to accommodate what they feel to Local Authorities. be the centre of rowing activity in the Demand for Mootings: The demand for UK. These ideas include: opening up moorings on the Upper Thames has backwaters around Oxford specifically always been a sensitive issue. Relative to for rowing; using the South West the lower reaches of the Thames there Oxfordshire Reservoir if and when il is are few moorings in this area and built; developing redundant gravel subsequently there is always a demand workings in the Oxford area for rowing. by those boat owners who want to moor The latter seems the most likely option, their boat in a remote area, or close to but finding a solution will require where they live. It is generally accepted cooperation and imaginative thinking by that new permanent moorings on the the Local Authorities, the NRA and the main channel will not be allowed rowers to find a solution. because of their impact on the flat, rural Polices, recommendations and action landscape. If there are to be new plans which relate to these sites and moorings on the Upper Thames they issues are included within Section 10. E C T I O N 7

REVIEWING

THE

THAMES

River Thames Recreation Strategy: Middle Thames - Goring to Staines

Riparian Ijocal Authority & Thames Region Boundary

Urban Areas

River Thames

Other Main Channel

Lock

NRA National Rivers Authority Thames Region

©Crown Copyright © Adomobile Association______bjw as s«c«on (OTM) MS7to

E C T I O N 7

REVIEWING THE THAMES

7.1. AREA 2: THE MIDDLE THAMES • GO R IN G 7.1.2. Pangbourne ancl Whitchurch TO STAINES The village of Pangbourne is on the For this Strategy the Middle Thames is outskirts of the Reading conurbation. The designated as the area between Goring river is easily visible from the busy road lock and Staines Bridge, a distance of 49 and the Great Western Railway, both of miles. which run along it. The Swan Pub, sited close to the Whitchurch weir is a 7.1.1. The Goring Gap popular river stop, particularly with As the Thames flows downstream from cruisers who make use of its visitor Goring it continues through the Goring moorings. Gap, with the Chiltern Hills on the north Physical access to the river in bank and the North Berkshire Downs on Pangbourne is good. The local college the south bank. Here the river forms the has a boathouse and Berkshire County southern boundary of the Chilterns Area Council provide a water sports centre - of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and it is the County Centre, which teaches renowned as one of the prettiest parts of canoeing and sailing on the Thames (see the Thames Valley. Appendix 7). Pangbourne Meadows, an The landscape is airal, but not remote. area of riverside open space, is owned The villages of Lower Basildon and by the National Trust ancl managed by Gatehampton have residences close to the Parish Council. It is popular for the river, therefore much of the south mooring, walking, picnicking and bank is inaccessible to the public. This is enjoying the river, all encouraged by the compensated by good access on the availability of car parking at the Riverside north bank, particularly around Goring Centre. which is now a very popular riverside Pangbourne is linked across the river to destination. the village of Whitchurch by a toll Before reaching Pangbourne the Thames bridge, one of only two remaining on flows below the hanging Hartslock the Thames (Swinford Bridge at Eynsham Wood, a designated SSSI, which forms a being the other). Access to the dramatic backdrop to the river. A key Whitchurch waterside is difficult as much feature on the south bank is the Child of the bank has private residences. There Beale Wildlife Trust, a popular visitor is no pedestrian access to Whitchurch attraction where the river is an additional lock, although close to it is a disused feature. Boat trips are available and there public wharf. is a passenger service bringing visitors from Reading. For those cruising on the Thames who wish to visit the park, moorings are available. Any future development of the Wildlife Park could involve further integration with the river.

"6 3 ”

i 7.1.3. Mapledurham the river and to some extent isolates it The Thames valley-becomes rural again from the local population. There are downstream of Pangbourne with access routes across the tracks to the agricultural land on both banks. The river, but the isolation has left the river Hardwick estate runs to the river on the bank undeveloped for much of the route north bank making it inaccessible to the to Reading. Scours Lane, an area public until it reaches the Mapledurham traditionally associated with commercial Estate, where limited access is now boating, is one of the few access routes available. In recent years the onto the river. It is the site of the former Mapledurham Estate has diversified from Reading Marine Services and is currently being solely agricultural to encouraging awaiting redevelopment. The existing leisure use. Facilities include access to slipway is still well used by local people. Mapledurham House, church and The public path along the Thames grounds; a restored water mill; and continues on the south bank to Reading. cottages on the estate which are In some places Reading Borough Council available for holiday lets. Passenger have attempted to encourage visitors by services run between Reading and providing picnic tables, but access routes Mapledurham, but as visitor moorings are not very well known except by local are not available on the river bank, there people. Closer to Reading the riverside is is no direct access to the estate for much more visible and accessible. cruisers. Further downstream riverside Known as the Promenade, the area just land on the estate is let as amenity plots upstream of Caversham Bridge is a with moorings. Local Sea Scouts also popular riverside park which has a large have a base on the site. car park, public slipway, toilets and Mapledurham lock is the destination for visitor services. It is also home to a popular walk from the village of Reading Rowing Club and is a pick-up Purley. Over the years the lock keeper point for a passenger boat service. has developed facilities for the numerous Despite the fact that the Thames flows to visitors by opening a shop, and art the north of Reading town centre, there exhibition area. Although the lock and is good physical and visual access to the weir are very close to the Mapledurham river. There are several public parks, estate, there is no access across the river. pubs, and footpaths along both banks, The Mapledurham Estate landholdings with car parking close by. Caversham include land on the south of the river weir is accessible to the public and which backs onto Purley. One of the forms a popular river crossing. The meadow's in this area is well trodden by recent Tesco's development has resulted walkers, fishermen and local children. It in improvements to the riverside walk is low grade land, having suffered from and additional visitor moorings. vandalism, and requires work to improve There are, however, areas of the Thames it for recreational use. in Reading which have poor visual impact and need significant upgrading. R eading 7.1.4. View Island is one of these. Owned by Purley is the beginning of the Reading Reading Borough Council and leased for suburbs. The railway line runs close to moorings, the island has become an eyesore and potentially unsafe. There is. Wokingham District Council support in certainly potential for recreation and principle the building of a water Reading Borough Council have plans for resources centre, they are considering its development of the site, possibly as a function, operation and management. hotel. Current access to the river is good but as yet not well promoted. Another development site on the Thames is known as Deans Farm. There have 7.1.7. Sonning been planning applications for gravel The pretty riverside village of Sonning extraction but access to the area was felt and the lock nearby, is a popular to be a problem. Planning permission honeypot site. Visitor moorings are has been given for housing and available at the riverside pubs and where development has just begun. the NRA own the towpath. Dinghies and Further downstream is the site of canoes can be launched from the parish Berkshire County Council's proposed wharf downstream of the bridge. The third river crossing in Reading, for which lock is busy with both river and foot planning permission has not yet been traffic in summer. resolved.

7.1.5. The Kennet The River Kennet joins the Thames in Reading and forms an important waterway through the town. Its impact on the Thames has increased since the reopening of the Kennet and Avon Canal, providing a navigation through to Bath. The stretch of river from the Thames to High Bridge in Reading, including Blakes lock, is controlled by the NRA. Beyond that the Kennet and Avon Canal is controlled by Britisli Waterways.

7.1.6. Earley The river in Earley and Sonning is used by rowing and canoeing clubs based in a stretch known as the Dreadnought reach. A recent commercial development on land adjacent to the Thames in this area included provision for a nature reserve, country park, youth hostel and water resources centre. The nature reserve and country park have been approved, and the business development is currently under construction. Although 7.1.8. Shiplake and War grave the Thames National Trail from both Between Sonning and Shiplake lock the sides of the river. river is both rural and remote, with no The reach to Henley flows through semi- bridging points or access routes. Much of rural landscape, with the well established the land on the north bank is owned by boatyards of Bushnells and Wyatts, Shiplake College. Public access to and together with the Henley Sailing Club along the river is via Shiplake lock and a providing a hub for the busy boating public footpath linking the towpath with activities of this area. Shiplake Parish Church.

The St Patrick's and Borough Marsh 7.1.9. Henley Streams leave the Thames upstream of Probably the best known of all the towns Shiplake, flowing into the River Loddon. on the Thames, Henley is a hive of They flow back to the Thames when the activity both on the water and along the Loddon joins it at Wargrave. Both banks. The river is very much at the streams are popular with canoeists and centre of Henley’s popularity as a visitor anglers. Another back channel, navigable destination, helped by its accessibility by small boats, is the Hennerton from both banks. Marsh lock with its Backwater. wooden towpath horse bridges is a popular walk from Mill Meadows, a large A long-established, summer season park along the river managed by Henley campsite for permanent lease holders is Town Council. Facilities here include car provided by the NRA on Shiplake Lock parks, toilets, refreshments, hire boats island. Although this is good recreational and passenger services. use of the site, access is limited to the 18 lease holders. In the past there have Henley is synonymous with rowing and been plans to formalise the 'camping' the world famous Henley Regatta which and improve the visual amenity of the packs the town with visitors. The Regatta site by building small cabins, but these owns substantial areas of land on both plans have not yet been taken forward. sides of the river and when not in use for regattas, music festivals or rallies, it is The villages of Lower Shiplake and available for public recreation. Wargrave lie on either side of the river, both with residential development along In Henley the river is used throughout the river bank making access impossible. the year by the three rowing clubs based There is a public slipway at Wargrave in the town, including Leander, the but parking is poor and it is relatively worlds premier club where the current unknown. Olympic champions train. Activity on the river is markedly increased in the Negotiations for a footbridge upstream of summer season and includes passenger Lower Shiplake and Wargrave are and hire services provided by Hobbs and currently taking place between Hoopers. There are plenty of visitor Wokingham District Council and other moorings, although the public slipway interested parties (British Rail, NRA, has poor access and no parking. Hobbs Countryside Commission). The scheme offer a better slipway with parking at will provide a pedestrian link between their Wargrave road site. the two settlements, allowing access to 7.1.10. Hambleden temporary ‘leisure plots’ have become The famous rowing course runs from permanent and in some cases are now Henley Bridge to Temple Island, which residential properties on an otherwise is close to the village of Remen ham, just rural area of river. before the river reaches Hambleden lock. The location of the lock close by is an With public access across Hambleden added attraction and the village receives weir it is a very popular site for walkers, thousands of visitors every summer, *; as well as those who come to watch the which is not always popular with local white water canoeing which takes place people. The lock is the first on the t in the weir pool. Although car parking is Thames to have a warden working on ,<*;/ not available close to the river, Wycombe the site in summer, looking after the j . District Council provide a car park a few campsite which has a mixture of 1 hundred yards away. Hambleden Marina permanent seasonal plots and c asu al___ _ V is sited close to the weir and is a focus camping. Improvements to the site j f for caiising activity. include access for the disabled and Hambleden lock has been renowned landscaping. over the years as a bottle neck for river Between Hurley and Temple locks the traffic on busy days. The recent activity continues with Harleyford Manor, rebuilding of the lock because of its a large marina and caravan park on the poor staictural condition should ease north bank, and Temple Moorings, a congestion. linear marina on the south bank. There has been an application to further 7.1.11. Hurley develop Harleyford Manor by building a Between Hambleden and Marlow the golf course on the site. The new, and Thames passes a number of small very significant, Temple Footbridge villages on both banks. The first of these crosses the Thames just downstream and is Aston with its defunct ferry' point is the only river crossing between which has become a well used slipway. Henley and Marlow'. The next is Mednemham, with another ferry point turned slipway, but a less 7.1.12. Marlow well used one. The most significant Just before the Thames flows through the village in terms of river activity is Hurley town of Marlow it passes Bisham Abbey with its accessible lock islands which are National Sports Centre. Owned by the popular for angling, walking, picnicking, Sports Council and operated as a camping, and river watching. Freebodies, national centre of excellence, it offers the boat builders, are located close to access to water sports on the river such the lock. as canoeing and sailing.

Part of Hurley's appeal is due to an Marlow itself is in many ways enterprising local farmer who has comparable to Henley in that it is a developed ‘Hurley Farms', a riverside small, attractive town with good visual campsite, caravan park and amenity area and physical access to the Thames, which draws visitors from a wide area. which it uses to good effect. The key One of the problems of the Hurley Farm public riverside area is Higginson Park, development is the way in which managed by Wycombe District Council. Marlow lock is not immediately obvious, it does attract visitors on foot, despite the fact that there is no through route on from the lock. Just downstream of the lock the river bank is home to the Longridge Scout Boating Centre. The 10 acre site, including Sherrifs Island, is owned by the Scout and Guide Movement and managed by a local branch of the county Scout Movement. Water based activities include canoeing, sailing, motor boating and dragon boat racing, while on the shore there are facilities for camping, a climbing wall, assault course, rifle range, and playing fields. The majority of users are scouts and guides from all over the As well as providing excellent access to UK and Europe, although there is some the river the park is the site of the Court use by local groups (see Appendix 7). Garden Complex, a leisure and conference centre. This provides good 7.1.13. Spade Oak customer facilities such as car parking, As the Thames leaves Marlow it flows cafes, toilets and showers, and a below Winter Hill and Quarry Woods, a reception where information is available. wooded area owned by the Woodlands Despite the fact that there is a fee, the Trust and situated close to the village of overnight river bank moorings are Cookham Dean. Much of the land is popular, as good facilities are available owned by the National Trust. Views of on site. A current issue is the loss of the river from the hill side are excellent overnight moorings just upstream of the but access is limited as there are several Park due to the poor condition of the private riverside properties. bank. The cruising fraternity are lobbying against the loss of what was a popular An important recreational area on the mooring facility. north bank is known as Spade Oak Meadow. Owned by Buckinghamshire Higginson Park also provides rowing County Council and leased to a farmer boats for hire and Salters operate a for grazing, the meadow is popular for passenger service. In addition it is home informal recreation, despite the fact that to the Marlow Regatta, held annually in a railway track forms its northern June. boundary. A public car park is set back Wycombe District Council provide from the river close to The Spade Oak another public open space just pub. dow'nstream of the town. It is used as a Spade Oak is also the site of an old ferry sports field and for informal recreation. point now owrned by Folly Boats of Marlow Bridge is a well know'n local Henley. It is used by residents on the landmark and from it there are very opposite bank as their main access route good views of the weir. Although is across the river. Several gravel workings close to the river cruisers in summer. It is a very pretty in the Spade Oak area are designated for village and Cookham lock is a favourite recreational after-use. Currently there are spot for many people. The lock itself is nature walks around some of the pits not visible from the village and its which have become havens for wildlife. location across Odney Common, together More active recreation in the form of with poor signage make it difficult for water skiing takes place on Westhorpe pedestrians to find. Its remoteness is Farm pit. The after-use of the remaining added to by the diversion of the Thames gravel pits has not yet been decided but Path away from the river at this point, it is hoped by water sports enthusiasts bypassing the lock. It is only since 1991 that there will be provision for them. that the lock has become accessible to Wycombe District Council are intending pedestrians. to carry out a study to assess the best Sashes Island (Cookham lock island) is possible use. Ultimately some of the one of the largest on the river. The weir workings could become a base for water stream between it and Hedsor is one of sports in the Marlow area. the few stretches of the Thames without a public right of navigation. 7.1.14. Bourne End The village of Bourne End has residential 7.1.16. Cliveden properties lining the banks of the river, The backdrop to Cookham lock is the consequently there is little public access internationally known Cliveden Estate, available on the north bank. The now managed by the National Trust. situation has been improved by the Beech woods line the river bank of the opening of a footbridge across the river estate all the way to Taplow. Access to to Cock Marsh. This 132 acres of land, the river is via the estate, although close to the village of Cookham and Cliveden House has been leased as a owned by the National Trust, is well hotel. used by the public for informal recreation. Part of the land has been 7.1.17. Maidenhead and Taplow designated as an SSSI. Downstream of Cookham lock the The area is home to two active sailing Thames Path rejoins the river on the clubs, Upper Thames at Bourne End and south bank and continues to Maidenhead Cookham, whose base adjoins the parish w'here it passes through Boulters lock. visitor moorings at Cookham. There are This is one of the most visible locks on several commercial boat based industries the Thames and very popular for ‘river but the demise of the hire craft watching'. Ray Mill Island, adjacent to businesses at Andrews Boatyard and the lock, is in part owned by the Royal Bourne End Marina leave the area Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, without a cruiser hire service. Skiffs and who manage it as a public park, with small motor boats are available for hire cafe and toilets. at Cookham Bridge. Maidenhead does not compare with Henley, Marlow or Windsor as a tourist 7.1.15. Cookham attraction, although the riverside is Cookham village has good public access popular as a local destination. Taplow is to the Thames and is a popular stop for situated on the north bank which is built up with residential and office provide access for informal recreation. developments. The formerly grand All in all, when complete, it will be a Skindles Hotel has gone into decline and major Thameside facility. adds little to the river scene. Although The other major scheme proposed for the river banks may not be ideal for this area is the Maidenhead Flood Relief recreation, the water is busy with rowers, Scheme, for which the Secretary of State punters and cruisers. for the Environment has indicated his Between Maidenhead and Windsor the approval. It is anticipated that south bank has been developed construction of this 11.8 km channel primarily as residential properties and between Maidenhead and Windsor will hotels. The village of Bray has many begin in Spring 1996. private homes, most of which have their Unusually for the Thames there are 3 own moorings. Although there is a marinas in one relatively short reach i.e. slipway, access and parking are poor. Bray, Windsor and the Race Course Bray l.ock is a popular local walk Marina, all of which contribute although there is no access onto the lock significantly to the river traffic in the island. This area in general is perceived area. This activity is added to by the as being exclusive’ with its top grade Willows Caravan Park which is located hotels, restaurants and large residential on the river bank close to Windsor. properties. Many of these have become residential and there is the possibility that they may 7.1.18. D orney become more permanent. Much of the north bank, known as the Before reaching the busy waters of Dorney Reach, is designated as an Area Windsor the river passes through of Attractive Landscape and as it is Boveney lock and weir, which has rollers within Green Belt it has remained well used by local rowers. Although undeveloped, except for the M4 bridge remote from the village of Dorney and and the small village of Boveney. The surrounded by Eton College land, the Thames Path runs along the north bank lock is accessible on foot and attracts to Eton. Most of the open land and those walking on Dorney Common. islands in the river are owned by Eton College. They have recently been given planning permission to extract gravel in this area and subsequently convert the workings to a 2000 metre rowing course. The timescale of the project is long term, probably at least 10 years, as the first stage is gravel extraction. Although it will be a national facility in terms of competition, its impact on Thames rowing will be relatively localised as rowers from, for example, Oxford will not be prepared to travel except for competitions. Part of the planning conditions include landscaping to 7.1.19. Windsor and Eton who manage it as open space which the Downstream of the lock the riverside is public enjoy. The now pedestrianised in agricultural use, leased by Eton Windsor Bridge joins Windsor with Eton, College to local farmers. The Cuckoo becoming a popular vantage point for Weir Stream leaves the river flowing 'river watching'. There is certainly plenty under-a well used towpath foot bridge to watch: rowers from Eton College and known as Longbridge or the Chinese the Excelsior club; passenger ferries; Bridge. The stream re-enters the river cruisers; rowing boats; and numerous close to Windsor. people enjoying the funfair on the Windsor bank. The busy Clewer Mill Stream enters the Thames on the south bank and is a base Downstream of Windsor, Eton College for passenger vessels operating in continue their land holdings on the north Windsor. This marks the beginning of the bank, and include one of the lock busy Windsor river bank, which is a islands of Romney Lock. The lock itself honeypot for visitors who stray from is a popular stop for walkers and there is Windsor Castle, the main attraction of the access across the lock onto the island. town. On the south bank the land holdings of The river in Windsor is well developed, the Crown Estates begin with Home Park both with on-water and bankside which runs close to the lock. This is the activities. French Brothers and Salters only area of Crown Estate land close to have passenger services, others offer the river which is open to the public for craft for hire. The arches of Windsor both walking and overnight mooring. Bridge are home to several clubs Once the towpath reaches Victoria including Old Windsor Lifeguards and a Bridge, Home Park becomes private and swimming club. Most of the river bank inaccessible. and the three islands in the river are owned by the Royal Borough of Windsor 7.1.20. Oatchet and Maidenhead, with good public The village of Datchet lies close to the access along what is known as the river on the north bank and offers access Promenade. points to the river in an otherwise currently inaccessible area of Crown Windsor is a very popular place for land. Overnight mooring is available on visiting craft to moor, and Windsor Wharf a public wharf, and there is a somewhat is used by both passenger craft and defunct slipway, with poor access and visiting cruisers. The $A mooring fee (per car parking. A hire cruise company 24 hours), with few facilities provided, is operate from the Datchet bank on land felt to be expensive and does not leased from the Crown Estates. Other compare well to other sites. Those on stretches of bank in this area are leased cruisers often complain about moorings by the Civil Service Angling Club. fees. Stopping on the Windsor bank on certain The north bank, known as the Brocas, is stretches of Crown land is not permitted. also used for overnight'mooring and New public access to the river bank here again there is a fee. These between Datchet and Albert Bridge will meadows are owned by Eton College be created by the Thames Path. 7.1.21. Old Windsor and manage this public access, which is The building of Old Windsor lock currently being considered. created one of the largest lock islands on Runnymede Meadows, owned by the the Thames. Known as Ham island, its National Taist, is a popular destination main tenant is a sewage works, although south of the river, with good access to there are several residential properties. the river banks, car parking and There is public access, but it is not overnight mooring. The Meadows promoted and the island is not used for incorporate the Magna Carta and recreation, except angling. Kennedy Memorials, and are overlooked by the Airforces Memorial located on the Old Windsor lock lies at the downstream top of Coopers Hill. O f special ecological end of Ham island and is a very popular interest is Langham Pond, designated as local walking destination. Sea Cadets an SSSI. have a base on the nearby Lion Island. The weir stream is one of the canoe Close to the Meadows is Runnymede slalom sites provided by the NRA and is Pleasure Ground, a very busy riverside very well used by canoeists. Downstream park owned and managed by of the lock is a small marina known as Runnymede Borough Council. Facilities Saxon Moorings. include a children's paddling pool, play equipment, cafe, and car parks. The The village of Old Windsor lies on the NRA provide popular free 24-hour south bank with access on the towpath moorings just downstream of the all along the bank. Wrayshury on the Pleasure Grounds. opposite bank has virtually no river access as much of the bank has private The north bank continues to be less residential properties. Informal access for accessible with private residences, gravel walkers is available through the workings and reservoirs along the bank Ankerwyke Estate, an area of woodlands until the river reaches the site of the City of special archaeological and ecological Stone. This marks the former jurisdiction interest, owned by Berkshire County of the City of London over the Thames. Council. There is potential to increase The site of the stone is now within a children's play area in the Lammas Park parking. River watching, picnicking, on the edge of Staines. The Stone itself strolling, and just relaxing with family has l)een moved by Spelthorne District and friends are the main activities. Council. Angling Before passing under the M25 bridge, 7.2.2. Angling maintains its popularity the river flows through Bell Weir, which throughout the Middle Thames, but as has a very small lock island. The main activity on the water increases it feature of the area is the popular becomes more difficult and the conflict Runnymede Hotel. between anglers and boaters escalates. The river is busiest close to towns and 7.2. RECREATIONAL USE OF THE THAMES: villages, with boats moored and the GORING TO STAINES banks used by walkers and picnickers. 7.2.1. Informal Recreation Anglers prefer the remoter areas, where As the Thames flows downstream the mooring is not allowed and there is less river becomes wider, its valley becomes bank side use. As the river flows more populated and consequently its use downstream finding these remote areas for recreation increases. becomes more difficult.

Riverside walking continues to be very As is common throughout the river, most popular and as towns and villages along of the fishing rights in the Middle the river are more frequent, access and Thames are owned by clubs. A few bridging points are also more frequent. notable exceptions are on some council - This facilitates circular walks to and owned lands. along the Thames. 7.2.3. Boating The Thames Path is much closer to full The number of craft using the Middle implementation along its prescribed Thames increases in tandem with the route than in the Upper Thames. The riverside population. Boat traffic in this number and frequency of facilities close area is much greater than on any of the to the Path increases as it reaches busier other stretches. This is reflected by the areas of the river, but it is still possible to lock traffic statistics which shows get away from the hustle and bustle. The Caversham lock (Reading) to be the main change as the river flows busiest on the river (in 1993 it had over downstream is that these quiet areas are 11.000 lock movements). It is closely less remote. followed by Hurley, Temple and Marsh The key honeypot sites where people locks, all of which have a high density of gather are in or close to the towns and mooring, or marinas close by. villages of Pangbourne, Reading, Both recreational boating and the more Sonning, Henley, Marlow, Maidenhead competitive water sports are and Windsor. Locks such as Hambleden concentrated in the major towns. and Hurley are also very popular. Most Although there is the perception of of these towns have public facilities conflict, significant problems are relatively close to the river, but they are invariably limited to times of peak use, ie not always well signed. This leads to summer Sundays, bank holidays and complaints about the lack of toilets and when there are events on the river. Cruisers: In line with the population the been available at the honeypot sites in number of permanent moorings the major towns such as Reading, increases dramatically in the Middle Henley, Marlow and Windsor They are Thames, with a total of 4248 (see often the only way for the general public Appendix 3b). Cruising activity to experience the river from a small craft. dominates the river close to the marinas, There are obvious concerns about safety, and in the reach between Bray and especially in busy areas of the river, but Boveney lock, where there are 3 it is important to retain this service as it marinas, bottlenecks occur at peak times. provides a valuable access route to the This problem is exacerbated by the fact Thames for many people. that most people use the river at the Canoeing: There are 7 canoe clubs based same time. on the Middle Thames, again almost all Although the majority of private cruisers are located around the towns where registered on the Thames do not belong access to the water is better. They tend to a club, there is a significant minority to have their own club/boathouses and who do. O f the 41 boat clubs on the use local waters for regular training. This river, 8 are based in the Middle Thames. does cause problems where the local Among other things they organise rallies water is also the home base for other where cruisers travel together to a pre­ clubs, for example in Reading where arranged destination. Cookham lock is a canoe clubs share water with rowing popular site for these rallies. clubs.

There are many more facilities for When canoeists want to use other boaters in the Middle Thames than stretches of the Thames, they need an further upstream. The marinas and access point which has car parking. This boatyards provide fuel, water and is not always easy to find, particularly for sanitation services. Some of the lock sites those wishing to use weirs for white also provide services. There are water canoeing. Popular weirs in the numerous riverside pubs and most of the Middle Thames are Hambleden and Old towns and villages have good access Windsor, where the NRA have provided from the river. The most common access for slalom canoeing. complaints concern overnight mooring, The Middle Thames has 2 water sports both the lack of availability and the fees centres where novices can learn to charged at some locations where there canoe, among other things. One of these are few if any services provided. is the County Centre at Pangbourne Hire Craft: There are a total of 13 hire provided by Berkshire County Council, operators in the Middle Thames, the other is the Longridge Scout Boating invariably located in the main towns Centre near Marlow, provided by the including Reading, Wargrave, Henley, Scout Association (Appendix 7). Cookham, Maidenhead, Windsor and Sailing: Sailing is more popular on the Datchet. Hire cruisers contribute to the Thames as it becomes wider. Almost all lock traffic in the summer season, Thames sailing is club based and there primarily the 6 weeks of school holidays. are 9 sailing clubs in the Middle Thames, Small day hire boats have traditionally although other clubs provide facilities for sailing. A key area for sailing activity is 32% of visitors to Henley and the Bourne End - Cookham stretch. Wallingford felt that the river was the Competition sailing is almost always most important attraction. As a result of limited to the club timetable, which other the tourist interest, visitor services are local river users should be aware of, thus increased, especially in Henley where reducing conflict and congestion. there are several passenger services, day Problems for sailors include the silting of hire craft and riverside pubs, cafes and the river edges and trees along the bank restaurants. which affect the wind. Encouraging tourism presents a dilemma Rowing: The Middle Thames is home to for Local Authorities who are concerned several rowing clubs, most being located about the effect of large numbers of close to the main towns. Henley is people on the natural environment and probably the place that first conies to the local population. The attractiveness mind when discussing rowing in the of the Thames Valley is dependent on area. The world famous Regatta is a the combination of pretty rural towns focus of activity but the Henley waters and villages, and the rural riverside. On are busy all year round with locally busy summer Sundays both of these based clubs. Several other towns have features can be affected by too many rowing events, including Marlow, cars and people. Yet these tourists make Reading, Maidenhead and Egham. When a very valuable contribution to the local well organised these can enliven the economy. One way to resolve this river without causing distress to other dilemma is to encourage visitor river users. management through information and education. Several schools, colleges and universities have rowing boathouses on the river, the 7.2.5. Recreational Sites and most famous being Eton College which Opportunities owns substantial amounts of their local THE THAMES PATH: The riverside is river bank, including three boathouses. generally much more accessible and Eton also plan to construct a 2000 metre better known in the Middle Thames, and rowing course close to the Thames the Thames Path is almost complete with which will be a significant local and only a small section of the new route not national facility for rowing. yet designated. The creation of the S k if f and Punting: The Wraysbury Skiff Bourne End footbridge in 1993 provided and Punting club, located close to the a major link in the route, as did Temple Runnymede Pleasure Ground, is one of footbridge in 1989. There are still the few clubs on the river which stretches of the Path to be agreed with concentrates on skiff and punting. the Crown Estate in Windsor.

7.2.4. Tourism The river becomes more important as a tourist destination in the Middle Thames, with towns like Henley, Marlow and Windsor attracting many visitors in summer. A recent survey show'ed that Opportunity: to promote the Path as a access to the river and restores facilities long distance route, as well as improving for the boating public, including the the network of local routes linking to the slipway. river. This will include the extension of READING RIVERSIDE PARKS: The visitor facilities to key locations where Promenade, Caversham Court, they do not already exist, eg toilets, Christchurch and Hills Meadows are all camp sites. busy formal riverside parks owned and CHILD BEALE WILDLIFE PARK: Visitor managed by Reading Borough Council. attraction located on the Thames Opportunity: to maintain and promote between Goring and Pangbourne. these parks, which are an important part Opportunities: to further integrate the of the local recreation infrastructure. This Park with the river and continue to includes promoting the use of the river develop river related activities. for passenger trips and small boat hire.

THE COUNTY CENTRE: Water sports VIEW ISLAND: Derelict island owned by centre provided by Berkshire County Reading Borough Council. Councils Youth and Community Service. Opportunity: to rehabilitate the site, Opportunity: to develop the facilities, improving the base mooring facilities, including the provision of and developing public access. accommodation, which would help to DEANS FARM: Downstream of Reading make the centre more financially viable. this derelict farm is now being THE PANG VALLEY COUNTRYSIDE developed for housing. PROJECT: The River Pang enters the Opportunity: to improve the visual Thames in Pangbourne and although the quality of the river in this area, Pang is not a public navigation, the Pang increasing riverside access where Valley is an important countryside possible. resource, parts of which are designated THAMES VALLEY PARK: Commercial as an SSSI. development in Earley, downstream of Opportunity: to create a pathway along Reading. the Pang linking the Thames to the Opportunity: to create a water resources Kennet, and developing educational centre, including an educational and access to an important conservation area.- interpretative facility. MAPLEDURHAM: A busy area on the SHIPLAKE LOCK: NRA lock island leased Thames which features the Mapledurham to seasonal campers. Estate as a well established visitor Opportunity: to improve the appearance destination. and accessibility of the site to the general Opportunity: to improve the visitor public, including the provision of more experience and make the most of this open, public camping. area of the Thames by integrating the estate, the river and the lock. MILL MEADOWS, HENLEY: A busy riverside park, soon to be the home of SCOURS LANE: Formerly the site of the River and Rowing Museum, which is Reading Marine Services. due to be constructed by the end of Opportunity: to ensure that any future 1995. development of the site maintains public Opportunity: to maintain this valuable Opportunity: to safeguard the site so that riverside park and integrate the new an important recreational asset on river is museum as an information centre for not permanently lost. both locals and tourists. COOKHAM LOCK: NRA owned lock HURLEY: The village and lock have islands, said to be one of the prettiest become a honeypot for visitors to the locks on the Thames. river. Opportunity: To ensure that the site Opportunity: to develop the full fulfils it recreational potential through the recreational potential of the lock island development of a site and visitor through a comprehensive management management plan. plan which also considers the CLIVEDEN ESTATE: A popular visitor surrounding area. destination owned by the National Trust. HIGGINSON PARK, MARLOW: A busy Opportunity: To increase the integration riverside park managed by Wycombe of the site with the river, promoting District Council. access both to and from the river bank. Opportunity: to maintain the existing RAY MILL ISLAND, MAIDENHEAD: facilities and where possible improve the Public park close to Boulters lock, services available, especially for those owned and managed by the Royal wishing to moor overnight. Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. LONGRIDGE SCOUT BOATING CENTRE: Opportunity: To maintain and enhance Water sports centre owned by the Scout the area as an important part of the Association and leased to the County public open space. Scout Association. ETON ROWING COURSE: A proposed Opportunity: to maintain and enhance 2000 metre rowing course close to the this excellent teaching facility, opening river Thames. access to a wider market where capacity Opportunity: To provide an alternative exists. water space for rowing which will help SPADE OAK: Riverside meadow owned alleviate congestion on the local Thames by Buckinghamshire County Council. and improve training opportunities for Opportunity: to maintain, enhance and clubs from further afield. The inclusion promote the area as a public open of landscaped areas around the course space, integrating it with the Little will provide a valuable public amenity. Marlow gravel pits and the local pub. MAIDENHEAD FLOOD RELIEF SCHEME: COCK MARSH: 132 acres of riverside An NRA project which will create 11.8 land owned by the National Trust and km of channel between Maidenhead and located across the river from the village Windsor. of Bourne End. Opportunity: to create public access for Opportunity: to safeguard and promote informal recreation and boating in this area as a riverside public open unpowered craft. There will also be space. significant conservation developments as part of the scheme. ANDREWS BOAT YARD: Derelict boat THE PARKS IN WINDSOR: Windsor yard located on the Bourne End river Castle and its Royal residents have bank. ensured that Windsor is one of the main the loss of facilities which were part of tourist towns in thei country. the essential riverside infrastmcture. Opportunity: To maintain the network of River traffic is at its peak in the Middle public parks along the river in Windsor, Thames. With over 30 marinas and boat­ integrating them, and the river, with the yards, it is home to many craft, who other attractions in the town. To improve often cruise close to their base. The the facilities for mooring, giving better busiest locks on the Thames are value for money. Caversham, Hurley, Hambleden, RUNNYMEDE: A pleasure ground along Boveney and Bray, all close to marinas the river just upstream of Staines which in the Middle Thames. is a very busy riverside park. Opportunity: to maintain and promote 7.3. GORING TO STAINES: PUNNING existing facilities and develop links POLICIES AND STRATEGIES FOR LEISURE ON between Runnymede and the Ankerwyke THE THAMES Estate on the Berkshire bank, where the There are 3 County Councils and 8 full potential of the site has not been District Councils who have the realised. responsibility for planning policy on the Middle Thames. They are listed below, 7.2.6. Summary with their relevant planning document. Between Goring and Staines the Thames gradually makes the transition from a Counties rural river valley dominated by Oxfordshire County Council: agricultural land, to becoming a busy County Structure Plan 1986-2001 focal point in riverside towns, with Berkshire County Council: relatively small areas of countryside County Structure Plan (Deposit 1992) between them. Countryside Recreation Local Plan 1985 Buckinghamshire County Council: Increases in the population, and in the County Structure Plan (Deposit 1994) number of roads and bridges, has led to increased access to the Thames as it Districts flows downstream. Towns such as South Oxfordshire District Council: Reading, Henley, Marlow and Windsor Local Plan (Deposit 1993) focus on the Thames as a recreational Neivbury District Council: resource and have good visual and Local Plan (Adopted 1993) physical access to it. This is not the case Reading Borough Council: in the villages where access can be Borough Plan (Deposit 1992) limited by more numerous riverside Wokingham District Council: residential properties. Loddon Area Local Plan 1990 Wycombe District Council: One of the most significant changes in Local Plan (Deposit 1992) the urban riverside scene has been the decline in river based industries. In recent years many companies have sold their riverside properties, most of which have subsequently become private residences or offices. This has resulted in South Bucks District Council: are few Local Authorities in the Middle Local Flan 1989 (under review) Thames which have responsibilities for Royal Borough o f Windsor & both banks. The only Authorities which Maidenhead: cross the river in this area are Reading Local Flan 1993 / Borough Council and the Royal Borough Hunnymede Borough Council: of Windsor and Maidenhead. For all the Local Flan 1993 others the Thames forms the borough Spelthorne Borough Council: border. Local Plan 1990 There appears to be increased emphasis on the river by Local Authorities in this 7.3.1. Overall Effect o f Existing Planning Policies in the Middle area and some have specific committees Thames or policies for the river: The attitude of Local Authorities to the * Reading Borough Council has a Thames in this area varies depending on Waterways Forum, made up of a the nature of the landscape. Some areas variety of interest groups, which have been given special designations discusses waterway issues and helped such as the Goring Gap and the to prepare the Reading Waterways Chilterns which are Areas of Outstanding Plan. Natural Beauty, and between * Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Pangbourne and Purley is designated as Council has a Committee of Riverside Strategic Gap, Several other riverside Parishes which meets to discuss areas are within Green Belt and Areas of Thames issues. Attractive Landscape. Boating: The general policy in the Local Authorities which include rural Middle Thames is similar to the Upper areas of the Thames tend to be more Thames, i.e. a presumption against restrictive as they wish to preserve the increasing the number of permanent rural nature of the river and do not want moorings on the Thames. Rather than to encourage anything which would protection of the quiet, rural landscape, increase river traffic. Most of the riverside the main reason behind this policy is to planning policies are based on the 1980 stop any increase in activity levels on the Report of the Working Party on River river. Thames Leisure Policy . Within the Local Authorities there is little All Local Authorities support the Thames knowledge of activity levels on the Path and will safeguard its route within Thames, or the nature of that activity. any new developments. The authorities They depend on the NRA for advice on with more proactive policies are those navigational issues but there is no formal which include riverside areas where system for getting that information. there is scope for redevelopment, or where it is believed that existing use With regards to small boats some of the would be improved by further Authorities realise that there is a lack of development. These more relaxed facilities, i.e. slipways, access routes and policies apply to the major towns such car parks, but they have not actively as Reading and Maidenhead. sought to remedy this. As is the case all along the Thames there Informal Recreation: All o f the * The Royal Borough o f Windsor and Authorities recognise the landscape value Maidenhead coordinate a Tourism of the Thames valley and have policies Forum consisting of local operators, intended to conserve and enhance it. A some of whose business is on or few are more proactive, promoting the related to the river. use of the Thames banks for informal Water sports on the Middle Thames tend countryside recreation. As expected there to be left to their own devices, as is the are many riverside parks and public case throughout the river. The only open spaces in this heavily populated contact between Local Authorities and area of the Thames, but these are not clubs is with those who lease council always promoted, nor do they always land or apply for grant aid. Otherwise have public amenities. Their are the the Leisure Department often does not obvious honey pots, but as the Thames know they exist. There is certainly scope flows downstream, access in general for Sports Development Officers to work improves and activities such as walking more closely with Thames based clubs. and picnicking are well established In terms of provision for novices there is among local people in most areas. only one council owned and managed water sports facility in the Middle 7.3.2. Leisure Policies Thames, i.e. the County Centre in The higher profile which is given to the Berkshire (provided by Berkshire County Middle Thames by some Local Council), and with public sector Authorities is reflected in their Leisure spending cuts the future of this is not Departments through reference to the secure. The other training centre is river within Leisure and Tourism operated by the Scout Association at Strategies. There awareness and concern Longridge, near Marlow. It is not open to for the Tham es is reflected in a num ber the general public. of projects:

* South Oxfordshire District Council 7.3.3, Key Issues fo r the Future organised a Tourism Symposium in The Increasing Popularity o f Countryside 1993 from which they hope to develop Recreation an d the 'floames Path: As the a Tourism Action Plan. They are aware Thames flows towards London the how important the Thames is as an population increases and the demand for asset, especially in Wallingford and the shrinking amount of open space H enley. increases. In the future the Thames Valley will come under increasing * Reading Borough Council have a pressure, both the designated public Leisure and Arts Strategy (1992) which parks and the more rural areas. The highlights the Thames as a recreational Thames Path will open access routes, resource which needs to be managed and policies for agricultural land such as and promoted. set-aside and countryside stewardship * Wycombe District Council have a will encourage farmers to allow informal Tourism Strategy (1992) which recreation on their land. encourages services on the Thames, Increasing the numbers of people along including hire boats and passenger the banks of the Thames does not services. 80 appeal to everyone and there is always and Windsor reaches of the Thames, as the danger that the environment is well as improving the landscape, and damaged. The key to optimising the providing better access and facilities in Thames Valley as a recreational asset is the area. It is important that its potential visitor management which protects the as a public facility is maximised, rather more vulnerable areas and plans for the than being exclusive to Eton College or relatively few very busy days. the rowing fraternity.

In terms of facilities a coordinated review Congestion cit locks: As there are so is needed to identify gaps in provision, many boats based in this area of the highlighting what is required, how they Thames it is not surprising that the locks can be provided, and where they will be become congested at peak times. There best placed. are several different reactions to this congestion. Some boaters recognise that Demand For Moorings: In a more cruising at peak times (summer populated area the demand for weekends and bank holidays) means permanent moorings is always greater. queues at locks and accept this as part There are many more moorings in the of boating on the Thames. Others Middle Thames than in the Upper believe that long queues are Thames, both those which are privately unacceptable and should be alleviated owned and those in marinas and boat through traffic control or lock yards. Since the advice given in the River enlargements. All agree that waiting at Thames Leisure Policy (.1980), there have locks should be safe and comfortable, been very few new main channel achieved through the provision of good moorings, despite the fact that there has layby facilities. been demand for them. The main reason was the wish not to increase congestion Policies, recommendations and on the river. Even though traffic on the action plans which relate to these river has decreased in the last 15 years sites and Issues are included within there is still a negative feeling about Section 10. permanent moorings, as it is perceived that they have a negative impact on the landscape. Although some of the marinas in the area are not at capacity, Local Authorities receive numerous planning applications for permanent moorings. Policies in this Recreation Strategy will advise on both permanent and overnight moorings.

Eton Rowing Utke: This project has already been described earlier in this section, however it is worth mentioning again as it will have a major impact on the area, as both a local and a national rowing facility. It should help ease congestion and conflict on the Boveney E C T I O N 8

REVIEWING mm m .

River Thames Recreation Strategy: Lower Thames - Staines to Teddington

Ripanan Local Authority

Windsor 4 U rban Areas Maidenhead M Richmond Upon ------River Thames Thames

------Other Main Channel

Spelthorne • Lock

Runnymede

Elmbridge

NRA National Rivers Authority Thames Region

© Crown Copyright © AuomotoHe A llo ca tio n ______bjw a s a»cior (Otm> t»i*o

E C T I O N 8

REVIEWING THE THAMES

8.1. Area 3: The Lower Thames ■ Staines to miles. It also owns a stretch along the Teddington south bank between StainesRoad and the Downstream of Staines the Thames railway bridge. Although much of the becomes more noticeably urbanised as route on the north bank has residential the population of the hinterland development with associated moorings, increases and the change from there is one significant river-side open agricultural to urban landscape is space known as Silvery Sands which is complete. This section describes the used by local people for informal main features of the remaining 17 miles recreation. of non-tidal Thames from Staines to Teddington. 8.1.2. Trusses Island Surrey County Council owned several 8.1.1. Staines areas of land along the Thames which Just downstream of Bell Weir (near they designated as open space under Staines) the Thames passes beneath their ‘Windows on the Thames’ policy. Runnymede Bridge which carries both Over the years several of these the M25 and the A30. From here it 'windows’ have become the moves into a predominantly urban responsibility of Runnymede Borough environment, which continues until Council Trusses Island. Although a beyond Gravesend. The town of Staines relatively small area, it is a very spans the river to meet Egham, with both significant open space along an banks being home to a significant level otherwise privately owned river bank. In of bankside and boating activity. 1991 it was refurbished and it now has a public slipway, with car and trailer The centre of Staines has to some extent parking, facilities for disabled fishing, turned its back on the Thames with information boards, and picnic areas. To many of the bankside buildings facing promote the use of the slipway a signage away from the river. As expected in a system was implemented throughout the busy riverside town there is a tradition of Staines area. Its success has yet to be boat-based industry on the river in seen. Staines, although some of these have been in decline in recent years. 8.1.3. Penton Hook Recreational boating is also popular, with Residential development continues along rowing and sailing available at local both banks, with the Thames Path clubs. Although there is a slipway close following the north bank to the village of to Staines bridge it is not well known or Laleham. Penton Hook with its lock, the used. gravel workings and associated To add to the river based activity many development on the Surrey bank has a of the residential properties along the major impact 011 the river landscape. banks have their own private moorings. The gravel workings have created a The NRA own the towpath (north bank) succession of lakes close to the river, between Staines Railway Bridge and one of which has been developed into Penton Hook, a distance of almost 2 the largest marina on the Thames - Penton Hook Marina (643 berths). The 8.1.5. Chertsey bank of land between the gravel pits and The main riverside access route to the river has several holiday chalets. Laleham Park is in fact via the towpath Access to these and the river bank is which takes motor vehicles. It runs from only by agreement with the gravel Chertsey Bridge through the Park to company. The area was one of Surrey Laleham village. Chertsey lock is located County Council’s Windows on the close to this road and although the lock Thames, although its potential as a island is very small with no possibilities public recreational resource has not yet for puhlic access, ‘lock watching' is a been realised. popular attraction for visitors to Laleham

Penton Hook island wras created by the Park. building o f the lock. O w ned by the NRA, Much of the river bank around Chertsey it has been left to develop naturally and is used for recreation. A small island at is now a popular destination for local the mouth of the Abbey river is used by walkers. There is access to the island a camping club. Spelthorne Borough across the lock from the north bank, and Council continues its ownership of the although there have been calls for access north hank downstream of the bridge across the weir to and from the south with a well-used open space known as bank, this has not been agreed. Dumsey Meadow. Similarly Runnymede Borough Council manage the open space 8.1.4. Laleham on the south bank known as Chertsey The village of Laleham has not exploited Meads. Formerly one of Surrey County its riverside position, as much of the Council's 'windows', it includes a bank is inaccessible due to residential wetland area known as Dockett Eddy. development. There are a few commercial operators offering permanent 8.1.6. IVeybridge and Shepperton moorings and boatyard services. It is not Lock until the Thames passes the village and Once past Chertsey Meads the banks of reaches Laleham Park that access to and the river soon becom e busy again with a from it improves. Owned and managed return to residential development. by Spelthorne Borough Council, Laleham Shepperton lock is at the centre of a Park is well developed in terms of very' active stretch o f river which customer services, ie parking, toilets, includes several rowing, sailing and play area, campsite and refreshments. cruising clubs. It is also one of the most The park is a popular ‘countryside1 popular sites on the Thames for destination for visitors from further canoeing. The River Wey Navigation afield, as well as being very well used by joins the Thames in this area, adding to local people. Free access to the river the level of activity. Local commercial bank makes the area popular for angling. operators include Nauticalia who run a The other main water sport is rowing, ferry which is now integral to the with the Burway Rowing club having Thames Path. their base in the park. Shepperton Lock is one of the few locks which offers services to the many people w ho visit the .site. Spelthorne Borough Downstream the river bank becomes Council provide a car park and toilets more and more urban with dense close to the river, while at the lock there riverside residential development. Gravel is a very popular lea shop. workings lie lieyoncl the river bank, one of which has become Shepperton Public access to the lock island is limited Marina. Another important mooring site to those visiting the tea shop. The other in this area is Walton Marina, located on users of the island include the land leased from the NRA. Metropolitan River Police who have a station on the site, Weybridge Mariners 8.1.9. Walton on Thames who have a clubhouse and moorings, The town of Walton lies on the south and Shepperton Slalom Canoe Club who bank, with Cowie Sale, its main area of have a clubhouse and access to the weir. riverside open space, sited close to Beyond the main weir is a second island Walton Bridge. This is one of a number which has residential development with of riverside parks owned by Elmbridge the main access route across the lock Borough Council. It has a good slipway and weir. with a car park which is very busy at The town of Weybridge does not have weekends. The towpath continues on the any real focus on the Thames. The town south bank, through Walton, giving centre is set back from both the Thames access to the bank despite the dense and the Wey, and although there are residential development. walks around the rivers, they do not Water based activity in Walton includes form a core part of the town. boat hire, skiffing, angling, rowing and a passenger service. Dudley Park, another 8.1.7. Desborough Island Council owned site is home to two The digging of a flood relief channel rowing clubs, as well as being the site of created Desborough Island, just the Elmbridge Leisure Centre which lies downstream of Shepperton lock. There is close to the river, but does not m ake use access onto the island but rather than of its riverside location, one reason being recreation its primary use is as the site of its close proximity to an NRA depot, and a water treatment works. Surrey County to the Sunbury weir systems. Council own an area of open space called Ferris Meadow which is used as 8.1.10. Sunbury playing fields and open space. The main Residential development continues along activity is angling from the NRA owned the north bank to Sunbury, another small towpath. town with low key access to the Thames. Sunbury lock is not accessible from the 8.1.8. Shepperton north bank although it can be reached The village of Shepperton lies on the from the towpath on the south bank. north bank opposite Desborough Island. The NRA own the towpath upstream of Its traditional town square comes close the lock, where they lease land for to the river, with a riverside lawn owned parking to a local yacht club. by Spelthorne Borough Council. Further downstream is Thames Meadow, another Close to the Sunbury bank is River Mead public open space well used by locals. Island, some of which is owned by Spelthorne Borough Council who have a swimming pool and open space* on the* Much of the island is now used as site. Other plots are owned by the NRA. industrial and commercial units for non Spelthorne Borough Council also own river based activities, including the Grand Union island downstream from Metropolitan Police who have a station Sunbury, much of which is sublet as on the site. It also has permanent riverside plots with associated moorings. moorings around its banks which are There is no access to the general public. reached by a footbridge to the north bank. The west end of the island 8.1.11. Hampton remains undeveloped and has become a The village of Hampton lies on the north haven for wildlife. bank and has good visual and physical access to the river, including Garricks Platts Eyot is only one of several islands Lawn and Villa, and a little used slipway in this area which have been developed. made dangerous by the busy road The others include Garricks Ait and running close to the river. The road Taggs Island, both busy with residential separates the river bank from Bushy properties. Not only arc there numerous Park, one of London’s popular Royal houseboats around the banks of Taggs Parks. Island, the centre has been dug out to form a small marina which Although not on the same scale as Bushy accommodates residential craft. This Park, the south bank has an important private island has bridge access to the riverside open space called Hurst Park, north bank. with both car park and slipway available to the public. The park is due to be Just beyond Taggs Island is Ash Island, extended to a total of 27 acres by the owned and used as a base for hire redevelopment of adjacent land for cruisers by TS Allen. Access is across residential property. There has been user Molesey weir, by agreement with NRA. conflict recently when swan feeding by This is one of several commercial local people led to the establishment of boatyard operators in this busy part of a large flock of birds, making fishing the Thames. from the park difficult. 8.1.13. East Molesey 8.1.12. Platts llyot Molesey lock is sited just upstream of Dominating both banks of the Thames Hampton Court Bridge. With Hampton between Sunbury and Hampton are Court Palace one of the most popular reservoirs known on the north bank as attractions in the country, the Hampton Waterworks, and on the south surrounding area is a honeypot for as Molesey Reservoirs. In the river are visitors. The lock is part of the scene and several large islands which have been is very popular with ’river watchers'. The developed for residential or commercial NRA own the foreshore between the uses. One of the largest of these is Platts lock and the bridge. Currently this is Eyot, also known as Port Hampton, leased to an operator who hires out when it was an important ship building small boats in summer. yard. In the 1950's when most ship The Palace and its parks dominate the building relocated to other sites which area although the Thames is an could accommodate larger vessels, Port important part of the landscape. Hampton went into decline. Passenger services operate lo and from which are to be redeveloped, a project the Palace, and there are popular walks which could have a significant effect on along both banks o f the river. Molesey access to the Thames in this area. At lock is well located for those who want present recreational use of the site is to watch the bout traffic. The flower limited to a marina owned by Thames show now being held in the Palace Water Utilities Ltd., the Thames Sailing grounds in July has added to river traffic. Club (the oldest one on the Thames) and a pub. Elmbridge Borough Council have The town of East Molesey lies on the designated this area o f the riverside as south bank opposite Hampton Court Strategic Urban O pen Land, therefore Palace. The riverside is accessible with any development proposals will need to Cigarette Island providing an area of meet these requirements. At present open space beside Hampton Court there are no proposals for the filter beds Bridge. British Rail have land holdings which lie close to the riverside. behind the park for which there are plans for redevelopment, hopefully with Hampton Court Park continues on the improvements to public access. north bank to Kingston Bridge and As well as the banks which are popular although the park is separated from the for informal recreation, the river itself river by a wall, it creates a rural continues to be active with rowing, landscape for the river. Part of the scene canoeing, cruising and punting. in this area are several sites for residential moorings, including those 8.1.14. Thames Ditton operated by the NRA at Hampton Court. The south bank of the river quickly Good access to the south bank continues becomes developed again as it reaches with a long stretch of bank known as the the town of Thames Ditton. The Ditton Queens Promenade running along the riverside is a dense mixture of residential Kingston river front from Ravens Ait and commercial buildings, which extends almost to the town centre. A ferry to Thames Ditton Island. The latest operates from the promenade between residential development includes the the banks taking walkers and picnickers rebuilding of the Ditton Skiff and across the river. Punting Club boathouse, which will significantly improve the opportunity for 8.1.15. Ravens Ait locals to participate. This is the only fully staffed water sports The concentration of activity around centre in the area, offering novice Thames Ditton Island and its connecting training in sailing, canoeing and motor bridge is mostly due to a number of boating. It was formerly a national . commercial operators sited on the river boating training centre for the Sea Cadet bank. Although there is a public slipway Corp, subsequently bought by the Inner it is one that is not easily accessible. London Education Authority and then by the London Borough of Kingston. In Between Thames Ditton and the town of recent years it has been managed for Kingston, the south bank of the Thames Kingston by a contractor. At present it is is known as Seething Wells. The area is for sale but there are conditions to best known for the series of waterworks ensure that it will remain in leisure use Once past the power station site, (see Appendix 7). riverside open space returns with To help make it a more viable facility, Canbury Gardens. Owned and managed Ravens Ait has developed facilities for by the Royal Borough o f Kingston, this conferences and functions. Although its park is popular with locals for informal island status is good for the various recreation and is home to several waiter water sports, the fact that the only access sports clubs. to the island is by feriy is a problem , Water sports are very popular in this especially for the conference market. wide section of river which is home to rowing, sailing, canoeing and cruising 8.1.16. Kingston clubs, including the Lensbury Club. Add Before reaching Kingston town centre to this the passenger services and there is an important riverside site commercial operators and it is obviously known as Charterhouse Quay which is to a busy section of river. be redeveloped as a mixed residential and retail complex. The plans 8.1.17. Teddington incorporate an important link in riverside Just upstream of Teddington are access but the project has been delayed important sites for river recreation - the due to the recession. The town centre former BP employees club at Trowlock, close to Kingston Bridge has been together with the Royal Canoe Club, and redeveloped in recent years and the Lensbury Club, owned by Shell. River incorporates good riverside access with activities include sailing, rowing, retail and leisure venues. canoeing, and motor cruising, although There is a strong history of commercial the Lensbury Club has diversified and is boating activity in this area, with now a popular conference and function Kingston wharf available for passenger centre. services travelling from London, To those who are familiar with the Hampton Court and other riverside Thames, Teddington is a significant name destinations. O f particular interest is as it is the highest point to which Turks Boat Yard, a long established boat- medium tides How and is the boundary based business which, like many others, between the NRA and Port of London has suffered in the recession. Planning Authority navigation responsibilities. permission has been granted for mixed uses including restaurants, craft Teddington lock site has in fact 3 locks - w'orkshops and a museum. a barge lock, a cruiser lock, and a lock for small boats. The lock islands are all Development potential continues owned by the NRA and although there is downstream of Kingston town centre good public access, there are no public with the major project being the facilities available. The river bank around redevelopment of the site of Kingston the lock is busy with several riverside Power Station, owned by Powergen. The pubs and Toughs boatyard. This is demolition of the buildings and another long established family boat rehabilitation of the site l>egan in Spring business on the Thames which has 1994, although there has been no suffered in the recession. There have planning application as yet. been numerous applications for the redevelopment of Toughs site, but the bank is in fact developed. It is probably Local Authority are concerned about because there is little open space along losing a valuable service on the river, the river, relative to the upper reaches, and one that is an integral part of the that policies were created to safeguard river scene in the area. what remained, such as Surrey County Councils ‘Windows on the Thames' The Teddington footbridge is an policy (1971). important river crossing joining public open space on the south bank with the There are some well known and village of Teddington on the north bank. extremely popular parks and open spaces, almost all owned and managed A major development opportunity close by the district or county Councils. The to Teddington lock is the former site of Lammas and Laleham Park have facilities British Aerospace. This site has been and services for the public and they are granted planning permission, in an the focus of Spelthorne's Surreys appeal, for redevelopment primarily for Riverside Resort’ campaign. Not only are private residences. The Royal Borough of these popular with the local population, Kingston has designated the site for they have traditionally attracted day mixed industrial, business, residential trippers from London and further afield. and leisure use. It is hoped that a key The most popular of the other riverside area of open space will not be lost to the parks in the area are Cowie Sale, Hurst public because of the development. Park, and Canbury Gardens. Access along the river via the towpath and 8.2. Recreational Use of the Thames: Staines to Thames Path is good and river walking is Teddington very popular. Boat and river w atching continue to attract crowds particularly at 8.2.1. Informal Recreation the locks. Shepperton is certainly one of As the hinterland of the Thames the most popular. becomes more densely populated, the use of the Thames as a park increases, The main problem for the informal user despite the fact that much of the river is, as before, access. Unlike the Upper Thames where access is difficult I because The large num ber of moorings and the the riverside is remote, in the Lower density of marinas is reflected in lock Thames the river is not remote Ixit has traffic figures. Chertsey and Shepperton private residential property along the locks are among the busiest on the river bank. In the areas where there is open with over 25,000 craft movements in space, the access routes are not always 1993- Relatively few craft travel obvious. downstream as reflected in the low numbers (just over 15000) passing 8.2.2. Angling through Teddington lock. The most significant influence on angling in this area is that it is free! The NRA There are 14 cruising clubs based in the own the river bed from Staines to Lower Thames (34% of total) which are Teddington and their policy is to allow an important part of the river activity. As free fishing, as long as there is access to well as these clubs there are numerous the bank. Consequently there are fewer boaters who have their own private angling clubs based on this part of the moorings, cruise on a casual basis and Tham es. do not !>elong to a club. The casual use of the river by small boats is encouraged There are some areas where land owners by the provision of public slipways at have banned fishing, primarily due to the several points in the river. As is the case conflict with other users. Examples upstream these are not always in good include parts of Hurst Park and the condition, and often access and parking Queens Promenade in Kingston. Relative are a problem. to the Upper Thames this area is not as popular for angling, primarily because Hire Craft: There are 4 operators offering the waters are much busier. cruisers for hire in this area. Most hirers cruise upstream rather than cruising 8.2.3. Boating through Teddington onto the tidal river. This relatively short stretch of river, is Small craft are available for hire at home to 20% of all the clubs on the several of the key honeypot sites. river. Its population, tradition in boating Canoeing: Approximately 27% of all and relatively good access encourages canoeing clubs on the Thames are based motor cruising, sailing, canoeing, rowing, between Staines and Teddington. As well skiff and punting. as being popular with local clubs some Cruising: This area has more private of the accesses on the river are used by moorings per mile of river bank than any clubs and casual users who travel from of the other areas. It is also home to the other areas. Shepperton weir is a largest marina on the river, Penton Hook, particular honeypot for canoeing, both one of 18 marinas and base mooring white water and slalom. The local club sites. In addition there are a further 24 have priority of access from the lock commercial operators including boat island but there are opportunities for yards, passenger and hire services. other clubs to negotiate use of this Compared to the rest of the river, the access. Lowrer Thames has more commercial Sailing: As the river Incomes wider activity, with a larger number of sailing becomes more popular. Almost moorings and bigger marinas. 40% of all the sailing clubs based on the Thames are in this area, including the managed by Elmbridge Borough Council. Thames Sailing club (the oldest on the Opportunity: To enhance the facilities river). Most of the clubs are well within the park and promote it as a river established and have reasonable club access point. house facilities. Their main problems are HURST PARK: Riverside park ow ned by the increasing amount of tree growth Surrey County Council and leased to along the river bank which affects the Elmbridge Borough Council. wind, and the silling of river edges. Opportunity: To optimise the use of the Rowing: Relative to the other Areas of park, resolving user conflict through a the Thames rowing is less popular visitor management system which between Staines and Teddington, with includes a physical zoning policy. only 13% o f all clubs located in this area. RAVENS AIT: Island based water sports Staines itself has 2 clubs, and there are centre. several in the Kingston area, but in Opportunity: to safeguard the island for general rowing is less concentrated than recreational use, ensuring access is in other areas. available to the public.

8.2.4. Recreational Sites and KINGSTON WATERFRONT: A popular Opportunities: Staines to riverside honey pot which includes Teddington Queens Promenade, riverside pubs, passenger services and Canbury Gardens. TRUSSES ISLAND: Riverside open space Opportunity: To ensure the water front is managed by Runneymede Borough enhanced and promoted as an important Council. part of Kingston's recreation and tourist Opportunity: To promote the use of this facilities. purpose built amenity area among the potential market groups, and monitor its TROWLOCK ISLAND AND THE success. LENS BURY CLUB: The facilities on these sites have their roots as sports facilities LALEHAM PARK: Large riverside park for the Royal Canoe Club and Shell. owned by Surrey County Council and Opportunity: To continue managing these leased to Spellthorne Borough Council. sites as multi-activity centres where Opportunity: To maintain and enhance potential conflicts are resolved through this important recreational resource, cooperation. Promote the facilities to the managing visitors at peak times, to local community. ensure the resource is not degraded. PENTON HOOK: Riverside site which SHEPPERTON LOCK: Busy lock site, includes gravel workings (now being both on the water and along the bank. used as a marina) and a lock island. Opportunity: To minimise potential Opportunity: To realise the recreation conflicts on the water by improving potential of the site for informal layby facilities, and encouraging activities, by joining the north and south discussion and cooperation between banks with an access route across the users. To develop the recreational use of weir. the lock island through the production of ELMBRIDGE LEISURE CENTRE: Leisure a comprehensive site management plan. centre sited in a park adjacent to the COWIE SALE: Riverside park owned and river. Opportunity: To create a landscape creating both visual and physical access which will integrate the river and the to it. centre, with overnight moorings, picnic VICARAGE ROAD, KINGSTON: Riverside areas or other facilities. site with development potential, which PLATTS EYOT: Also known as Port includes Turks Boat Yard. Hampton, this island was once the most Opportunity: To ensure that important important ship building base on the services, which are crucial to the Tham es. infrastructure of the river, are Opportunity: To investigate the safeguarded, and that the area is possibility of some form of leisure enhanced as a visitor destination with related use, with controlled public comprehensive passenger services and access, integrating with the educational facilities for day boat hire. aspects of wildlife conservation. KINGSTON POWER STATION: Owned CIGARETTE ISLAND: A spur of land by Powergen, the area has been divided by the entrance of the River designated in the Unitary Development Mole to the Thames, owned by Plan (UDP) for mixed residential and Elmbridge Borough Council.. leisure developments (hotel, restaurants, Opportunity: To increase the recreational possibly marina). use of the site by building a bridge Opportunity: To ensure that development crossing the Mole. Land behind the integrates with and enhances the river island is owned by British Rail and there landscape, and provides public access. is potential to include public access to BRITISH AEROSPACE SITE: Housing the river in any future development development site. proposals. Opportunity: To ensure that the THAMES DITTON: River bank and island development maintains existing riverside busy with private development, both parks and develops further public access residential and commercial. to and along the river. Opportunity: To enhance the visual TOUGHS BOAT YARD, TEDDINGTON: amenity and create better physical access Long established boatyard on the to the riverside, particularly public access Thames w hich will possibly be to the slipway. redeveloped. SEETHING WELLS: Disused Thames Opportunity: To safeguard valuable Water filter beds are situated across the riverside services important to the boundary between two Local Authorities infrastmcture of the river. Ensure that - Elmbridge and Kingston. any future development integrates with Opfwrtunity: To ensure that the river and includes public access. redevelopment opens both visual and physical access to the river. 8.2.5. Summary> The most significant difference between CHARTERHOUSE QUAYS: A mixed retail, this area and upstream is that overall residential and leisure development. access to the Thames is much better, Opportunity: To ensure that the consequently the concentration of development integrates with the river, activities in specific honeypots is less noticeable. Activities tend to be spread Counties more evenly throughout the river. Surrey County Council: Replacement Structure Flan 1992 W here there are still honeypots of activity, these tend to be within the D istricts parks, at accessible locks and in town Runnymede Borough Council: centres with a focus on the river. The Local Plan 1993 fact that most of the relatively few open Spelthorne Borough Council- spaces on the Thames in this area are Local Plan 1990 owned and managed by the Local Elmbridge Borough Council: Authorities is crucial to public access. Local Plan 1992 London Borough of Richmond Another significant difference is the NRA upon 1'hames: ownership of the towpath on the north Unitary Development Plan (deposit draft) bank between Staines and Fenton Hook, 1994 and their ownership of the river bed Royal Borough o f Kingston between Staines and Teddington. The upon 1'hames: latter means that downstream of Staines Unitary Development Plan (Deposit) angling is free. 1992 The river landscape in this area is in complete contrast to the upper reaches 8.3.1. Overall Effect o f Existing above Oxford. Between Goring and Planning Policies on the Lower Staines there is a gradual change from a Thames rural to an urban landscape but by the Despite the fact that the Thames Valley time it reaches Staines the river is from Staines to Teddington is flowing through an urbanised valley. predominantly urban, the river itself is Despite the fact that the lower reaches valued as a very important area of open are surrounded by areas of dense space. The Local Plans and Unitary population, the river itself still retains a Development Plans of the riparian sense of the countryside and a feeling of Boroughs pay significant attention to the space. It is this that people com e to Thames, some have even given it its enjoy and want to maintain in the future. own chapter. In most the Thames and There are several important development its banks is designated as either an Area sites along the river, particularly in of Special Landscape Character; Area of Kingston and Richmond. It is vital that Landscape Importance or Metropolitan when redeveloped these maximise the O pen Land. use o f the river. All five of the boroughs refer to the 1980 River Thames Leisure Policy , although 8.3. Staines to Teddington: Planning Policies several of them recognise that life on the and Strategies for Leisure on the Thames river has changed since then. The theme There is 1 County Council and 5 District of all of them is the protection of a Councils who have responsibility for unique asset and its enhancement as a planning policy on the Thames in this public amenity. area. They are listed as follows, with their plan which is relevant to the Thames: The Landscape Strategy has been very well received by the Local Authorities and agencies concerned, so much so that a jointly funded Landscape Officer has been appointed to implement the detailed recommendations of the Strategy.

Local lha/nes Forums: Both the Royal Borough of Kingston and the London Borough of Richmond have set up small committees to focus on the Thames. In Richmond it is called the Richmond River Forum and consists of local authority representatives and external River 11 James Landscape Strategy organisations. Planning briefs and (1994) : This is an important new applications are discussed, as are local initiative to develop a strategy for the management issues. In Kingston relevant landscape of the river from Hampton to Officers have a regular meeting with the Kew. The main funders of the project National Rivers Authority to discuss were the Countryside Commission, the issues of mutual interest on the Thames. Royal Fine Arts Commission, and English Boating: Overall policies are against any Heritage. Key national and local development which increases congestion agencies, including the NRA, were on the river. The development of new involved in the consultation process and permanent moorings is discouraged, the Strategy was submitted to the although in some authorities applications riparian Boroughs of Elmbridge, tend to be assessed on their own merit. Richmond and Kingston, all of whom In the past this area has been home to have adopted it as supplementary many commercial activities associated planning guidance for the Thames. with boating, but in recent years these Launched in June 1994 the Landscape have been in decline. Although the Strategy takes a detailed look at the policies for the Thames presume against land scape o f the Tham es, in what is one new developments on the river banks, of its most historic stretches. The they do seek to retain and encourage objective was to develop a detailed existing businesses which make a strategy on a reach by reach basis for the contribution to the river scene. rehabilitation of the Thames. Plans were Informal Recreation: Throughout all o f developed to recreate the best of the old these districts the Thames is recognised Thames, while integrating with new as an important part of the network of landscapes for the future. The strategy public amenities, and access to it is recognises the importance of the river as encouraged. The London Borough of a recreational resource and makes Richmond has 34 km of river bank on recommendations which will enhance its lx)th sides of the Thames, with public recreational value. These will be access to 27 km. The Thames Path is reflected in the policies within this obviously an important part of this strategy (see Section 9). access and it is supported by the Local destinations for informal recreation, and Authorities. Importantly there is support the fact that key areas of open space are for Thames walks which are not part of owned and/or managed by public bodies the official Thames Path, and these are has encouraged the use of the Thames also encouraged in Local Plans. for recreation. The recent increase in the popularity of 8.3.2. Leisure Policies countryside visits as a form of recreation The awareness of the use of the river for has put more pressure on open spaces sports and informal recreation is certainly close to the edge of urban areas. The greater among the Local Authorities in dense population around the Lower the Lower Thames than is in the Upper Thames makes it a prime resource. Thames. There is still, however, an Forecasts of a growth in demand for attitude of laissez fa ire with regards to countryside destinations will increase the club activity on the river. The only pressure on the Lower Thames even contact is with those clubs who lease more. facilities from the Local Authorities. Only Elmbridge Borough Council have a The Thames Path will be launched in 1996 and although most of the path in Leisure Strategy and this does refer to the use of the Thames for water sports. the Lower Thames is already complete, the publicity surrounding the official The London Borough of Kingston are in opening of the path will bring a surge of the process of putting together a Sports interest. To cope with and manage this Strategy and this should include interest river ’managers' will need to reference to the importance of the river review existing facilities and plan for for water sports. their improvement where necessary. Sports Development Officers are 7 he Demand fo r Moorings: The Lower potentially a key link to the Thames Thames has more moorings than any based clubs. Elmbridge, Runnymede and other stretch of the river. Local Richmond Boroughs have these Officers Authorities regularly have applications and in some cases they help facilitate the for moorings, but planning control on introduction of novice training in river these is strict, although in some instances based clubs. each application is judged on its own It is important that the Local Authority merit. Officers recognise the importance of the Riverside Development Sites: The Lower Thames as a recreational resource, and Thames has a large number of riverside that the numerous clubs based on the sites which have already been described. river provide an opportunity for many These sites are all at different stages of local residents to participate in water development, but the issue common to sport. all is that their riverside land is part o f an important recreational resource and 8.3.3. Key Issues fo r the Future access to it for the public should be The Increasing Popularity o f Countryside safeguarded and enhanced where Recreation and the Development of the possible. Thames Path: Many sections of the River Thames Landscape Strategy: As Lower Thames are already popular described above the Landscape Strategy for the Thames between Hampton and River Ihames Strategic Flood Defence Kew will be implemented in the next Initiative: As part of the NRA's strategy few years through the appointment of an to manage the flood plain of the Officer and support from the riparian Thames, there have been several studies Boroughs. This will have a significant to look at options for flood defence in impact on the recreational value of the the future. O ne of these is the Datchet, Thames in the area, by improving the Wraysbury, Staines and Chertsey Flood river landscape and access to it. The Study. Related to the Maidenhead Flood detailed, site specific strategy will result Relief Scheme, the study is looking at the in actual improvement for the end user. various options for extending flood relief channels further downstream. There are After-use o f Gravel Pits: The best known several reasons why this will have an of all the gravel pits in this area with a impact on Thames based recreation, the recreational after-use are part of the most important being the creation of Thorpe Park tourist attraction. There are another water resource. The other issue numerous other gravel pits, both existing is that any future schem e may link gravel and planned, which have potential for pits as a basis for creating the channel. recreation. The Borough Councils are In planning for this the after-use of keen to develop these areas as a water gravel pits must be water based, rather recreation resource, which would take than involving infilling. some activity away from key honeypot areas of the Thames, easing congestion Policies, recommendations and at peak times on the river. action plans which relate to these sites and issues are included within Section 10. E C T I O N 9

REVIEWING

THE

THAMES

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Urban Areas

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E C T I O N 9

REVIEWING THE THAMES

9.1. Area 4: The Tidal Thames particular attention to the importance of the river. 9.1.1. The London Thames Another notable, and unfortunate, It is difficult to imagine that the vast characteristic of the Thames in London is expanse of river that flows through that rather than being a common, London started life in Gloucestershire as binding feature, it is a seen by many as no more than a trickle. Almost the harrier between the north and south everything about the Thames in London of the city. is different to the river that flows through the rural counties upstream of Oxford. 9.1.2, Beyond the Thames Barrier Most significant is the change from non- The recreation duties of the NRA Thames tidal to tidal river downstream of Region end just downstream of the Teddington. This has a major impact on Thames Barrier in Woolwich, as does the the character and use of the Thames in scope of this Recreation Strategy. The London for recreation. Thames Estuary is an important resource The other main difference is the change for recreation and there are several areas in the landscape surrounding the where water sports such as waterskiing, Thames. Although the river valley sailing and power boating are downstream of Teddington is heavily encouraged. It is also a very important urbanised, there are significant 'green' natural habitat and as part o f English areas especially between Teddington and Nature's Estuary Management project a Putney where Richmond Park, Kew management plan is being prepared for Gardens and Syon Park all contribute to the Thames Estuary. Recreation will be the rural atmosphere of the area. considered as part of this plan, which will cover the river from Tower Bridge to In central London the Thames provides Shoeburyness in Essex, and the Medway one of the most important areas of open Estuary in Kent. space, linking a number of important parks, buildings and urban spaces all 9.1.3. Managing the Tidal Thames along its length. The importance o f the Throughout the length of the Thames Thames to the landscape of London has there are numerous organisations been recognised in recent years with responsible for managing different many of the new developments required aspects of the river. In London the to open visual and physical access to the situation is even more complex than riverside. There have been several upstream. The Port of London Authority Thames-based projects seeking to (PLA) are the navigation authority, taking enhance its landscape and amenity over from the NRA at Teddington (see value, notably the Thames Landscape Section 4). The river flows through a Strategy23 which focuses on the river total of 14 Local Authorities between between Hampton and Kew. The Teddington and the Barrier, with only London Planning and Advisory one o f these crossing the river (London Committee’s Advice on Strategic Borough of Richmond). Inevitably the Planning Guidance’ for London also pays management of the river bank differs between Local Authorities, which can 9.3. The Upper Tideway: Teddington to Putney lead to inconsistencies. The South East Bridge. Regional Planning Conference 9.3.1. Teddington (SERPLAN) provides advice to The obelisk which marks the boundary Government on planning matters, as do of jurisdiction between the NRA and the the London Planning and Advisory PLA is located 265 yards downstream of Committee (LPAC) (see Section 1). LPAC Teddington Lock. also have an officer level Thameside Working l3arty with representatives of The west bank of the river is relatively Thames riparian boroughs and other busy with moorings and residential relevant organisations. development, while the east bank has 200 acres (if public open space known Various government departments have a as the Ham Riverside Lands (Hamlands), specific interest in the London Thames, now designated as a Local Nature including the Government Office for Reserve. This area includes a 10 acre London, incorporating the Department of lake with a cut to the river, which has Transport (River Thames Working been developed as a water activities Group)’ and ihe Department of the centre known as the Thames Young Environment, who carried out a Mariners Outdoor Education Centre. landscape study of the London Thames Jointly funded by Surrey County Council, which will be published in Spring 1995- the London Borough of Richmond and There are also numerous agencies and both the Richmond and Surrey Youth groups which represent interests on the Service, the centre provides good off- Thames, for instance the London Rivers river training facilities for water and Association and the London Ecology outdoor activities. Unit. Since the abolition of the Greater London Council there has been a gap in Ham House is set back from the river the coordination of all these interests on and is one of numerous historic the Thames, which has led to duplication buildings which make this stretch of river o f effort. bank so impressive. Hamlands, which surround Ham House, have been used 9.2. The Tidal Thames: Teddington to the by Londoners for many years as a Thames Barrier recreation ground. The study area for this project covers the 23 miles of tidal Thames between 9.3.2. Twickenham Teddington and the Thames Barrier. Twickenham lies on the west bank of Although the river valley in London is the river, which is also home to urbanised, there are areas of different numerous historic riverside residences, character. For this descriptive summary' including Strawberry Hill (now a Training the tidal river is described in three College), York House, Orleans House character sections: The Upper Tideway; and Marble Hill House. Som e of the gardens associated with these houses are now important riverside open spaces, including Marble Hill Park, Radnor Gardens and Orleans Gardens. A ferry operates between Ham House and Orleans House Gallery providing access Corporation Island which lies close to between the north and south hanks. the north bank has a tradition of boat based industry but due to the recession 9.3.3. Eel Pie Island several of these are proposed for This busy island is connected to redevelopment. Access along the north Twickenham by Snapper Bridge, used by bank is via Ducks Walk, which is also the residents and businesses (mostly boat home to several residential moorings. based) located on the island. It is also Richmond half-tide lock is the last (or home to several clubs including the first!) lock on the Thames. Operated by Twickenham Yacht Club. the PLA, it celebrated its centenary in May 1994, following a major 9.3.4. Petersham refurbishment project. There is public As the Thames passes Eel Pie Island and access on the footbridge which runs enters what is known as Horse Reach, across the lock and weir system. Richmond Hill com es into view, with the Star and Garter Home visible in the 9.3.6. Kew background. The view from Richmond This green, ’rural' stretch of the tidal Hill, looking down on the river, is one o f Thames continues on the east bank with the most impressive views of the Thames the Old Deer Park and Kew Gardens. and has been the subject of many Although both of these parks run to the paintings. The sightline to St Paul's river they are not integrated with it, as Cathedral is now protected by a much of the towpath is cut o ff from the Government directive. parks. Kew Gardens has so much to The 'greenness' of this area extends from offer in its own right that the river is not Richmond Park down to Petersham an important feature. Meadows, which run along the river bank, and include the popular River 9.3.7. Isleworth Lane slipway. Twickenham Bridge marks the border between the London Boroughs of 9.3.5. Richmond on Thames Richmond and Hounslow on the west bank of the river. Richmond has long had a reputation as one of the prettiest towns on the The village of Isleworth is the first major Thames. Although the river features as focal point on the river downstream of an important focal point, Richmond has Twickenham. It has several popular many other attractions, including the riverside pubs along what is known as 2358 acres of Richmond Park. the Isleworth Promenade. Close to Isle worth the River Crane and the Duke I3oth visual and physical access to the of Northumberland's River join the river is very good. Buccleuch Gardens Thames. and the recently redeveloped river front in the town centre are very popular A large island known as Isleworth Ait is recreational spaces. The river is busy home to one of the few remaining with in-stream moorings, dinghy hire and commercial boat yards in this part of the passenger ferries available along the river. The island is also an important water front. wildlife habitat and is managed by the London Wildlife Trust as a nature busier with recreational boats, primarily restiv e. rowers, as it flows under Kew Bridge. The traffic is added to by Kew Pier, used 'I'iie Hounslow hank has its share of by passenger services bringing visitors to green open space in the form of the 55 and from Kevv Gardens. Kew Bridge acres of Syon Park, which has the only Marina and Chiswick Quay Marina are remaining natural tidal meadow on the the main areas of mooring, as the PLA London'Thames, now designated an in-stream moorings are not popular. SSSI. Public access is limited to specific routes through the park. Dukes Meadow's, the associated Sports Grounds and the Riverside Recreation 9.3.8. Brentford Ground together form a significant open The Grand Union Canal enters the space along the north bank of the river. Thames at Brentford: In the past this This concentration of sports facilities, confluence provided the impetus for a managed by the London Borough of thriving water based industry. Now many Hounslow and a number of local of the former industrial sites are derelict, organisations, includes 3 boathouses and with proposals for redevelopment. British 2 public slipways, although the access to Waterways, who manage the canal, these is sometimes obscured by club propose to redevelop a site relatively based rowers. close to the Thames, which would include moorings and leisure facilities. Within Dukes Meadow is a small but important Local Nature Reserve. Known The Brentford Dock Marina is located as Dukes Hollow it lies close to Barnes close to the canal entrance and has lock Bridge. access to the Thames. Downstream of Dukes Meadow's the There are several small islands on the river flows through what is known as the river in this area, including Brentford Ait, Corney Reach. In this area there is a Oliver's Ait and Lots Ait. The latter two redevelopment proposal put forward by are valuable wildlife habitats although the Corney Reach Development Trust Lots Ait has a tradition of industrial use. (CRDT), a partnership between local Planning permission was given for a development on Lots Ait which included leisure facilities (restaurant and wine bar) and a footbridge link to the river bank. Due to financial difficulties this development has not progressed.

Close to Kew Bridge is Waterman's Park, a relatively small area of open space owned and managed by the London Borough of Hounslow.

9.3.9. Chiswick This area is characterised by riverside residences, although access to the bank is generally available. The river becomes community groups, The Thames Explorer Sports Centre, a former ILEA school’s Trust (an Educational Charity providing Outdoor Centre which is currently information and advice on the Thames to owned and managed by the London schools and interest groups) and the Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. It Local Authority. The Trust aims to create has a separate water sports centre along a busy community waterfront capable of the Thames providing training facilities sustaining a widt* variety of river uses. for rowing and other water sports, The development includes several acres primarily for schools (see Appendix 7). for river related use-piers, moorings and improvements to access (see also 9.3.12. Hammersmith Appendix 6). The north bank of the river along Hammersmith and Fulham is the Chiswick Eyot, designated as a Local beginning o f the m ore fully urbanised Nature Reserve, is another valuable river bank that is common in London, island habitat for wildlife, in which local characterised by flood defence walls, volunteers have taken a keen interest. with development behind. In this area This island marks the border between the riverside development is often the London Boroughs of Hounslow, and interesting eighteenth century houses Hammersmith and Fulham. and pubs, which add to the character of the river bank. 9.3.10. Mortlake On the south bank the eighteenth The key areas of open space along this century houses along the river in the stretch of river are owned and managed villages of Mortlake and Barnes are by the London Borough of Hammersmith somewhat hidden behind the flood and Fulham. They include Furnivall defences. One of the most famous river Gardens which has a privately owned scenes from this area is of the Oxford residential pier known as Dove Pier, and and Cambridge Boat Race which is held Bishops Park, home of Fulham Palace. over the four mile stretch from Putney to There are two other small open spaces Mortlake, finishing at Chiswick Bridge. known as Roweberry Mead and Stevenage Gardens. Close to Putney 9.3.11. Barn Elms Bridge is the Swan Drydock, a small Downstream of Hammersmith Bridge on nature reserve run by a local trust. the south bank o f the river, and beyond Fulham Football Stadium is a privately- Harrod's Depository, are the Barn Elms owned stadium used for professional Water Works. Part of the site has been football, but there is no access from the given planning permission for residential Stadium to the river. Current development. Another area is an SSSI, redevelopment proposals may change which the Wildfowl and Wetland's Trust this situation, propose to develop as a nature reserve, with visitor centre and associated Access onto the Thames on the Fulham facilities. The project has involved bank is poor although the close collaboration between Thames Water Pic proximity of the slipways at Putney and the London Borough of Richmond. compensate.

On an adjacent site is the Barn Elms Further downstream is Hurlingham Park, a former riverside residence now managed access and information privately operated by the Hurlingham points/centre to educate visitors. Club. On an adjacent site is Broomhouse TWICKENHAM BATHS & RICHMOND Drawdock, owned by the London ICE RINK: Derelict facilities on separate Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. riverside sites. Now disused, it was the home of a ship Opportunity: to incorporate access to the used for a charitable youth training river for the public on both sites. This schem e. could include good slipway access which 9.3.13. Recreational Sites and is needed along this stretch. Opportunities: Teddington to LOTS All': Island close to Brentford with Putney Bridge a tradition of boat based industry. Opportunity: to create access from the RICHMOND RIVERSIDE PARKS: river bank and develop visitor facilities Petersham Meadows, Buccleuch Gardens, including temporary mooring. Hamlands, Marble Hill Park, Radnor Gardens, Old Deer Park, and Richmond BRENTFORD AND GRAND UNION Riverside. CANAL: Junction o f canal and the river. Opportunity: access to the river is well British Waterways have a scheme for developed in most of these parks, but canal-side development. there are opportunities to integrate some Opportunity: to integrate the canal-side areas more closely with the river, eg Old facilities with the Thames, especially Deer Park and Kew Gardens. mooring and boat services, with information, signage, and link routes DUKES MEADOW, HOUNSLOW: Sports from the Thames. grounds and riverside park designated as Metropolitan Open Land. Facilities CORNEY REACH: Riverside area with include the Chiswick Boat House. industrial units, now proposed for Opportunity: to integrate the park and redevelopment. Also the base of the the river, managing the public use of the Thames Explorer Trust. slipway, and other riverside facilities. Opportunity: To integrate public use of the site, promoting the river and visitor KEW PIER: PLA owned pier used by facilities such as a pier, passenger passenger services. services and refreshment areas. The Opportunity: to develop the pier and development should include provision associated facilities for visitors to the for the Thames Explorer Trust which river and Kew Gardens. needs to establish a base from which to FURNIVALL GARDENS: Riverside park expand its educational support service used by local residents. The Dove pub and information centre for the Thames. and pier is close by. BROOMHOUSE DRAWDOCK: Disused Opportunity: to link Furnivall Gardens to dock formerly a mooring site for a ship Hammersmith Town Centre and review used for a youth scheme. the potential of Dove Pier. Opportunity: To develop the site for low CHISWICK AIT: Island managed as a intensity recreational use, aligned to its conservation area. proximity to the Hurlingham Club, and Opportunity: to develop low key, its ecological value. 9.4. The Middle Tideway: Putney Bridge to to 50,000 visitors for special events. In Tower Bridge 1988 the park was designated as a Conservation Area, with a small area 9.4.1. Wandsivorth close to river becoming a Local Nature On the south hank the London Boroughs Reserve in 1994. The PLA owned Festival of Richmond and Wandsworth meet on Gardens Pier is now unsafe and is not the Beverley Brook which enters the used. The Riverside Pagoda has become Thames just downstream of Barn Elms. a well known riverside landmark. The embankment to Putney Bridge Other areas of open space include passes through Leaders Gardens, a Vicarage Gardens, the Church of St. public park which offers good views Mary, and around Ransomes Dock, across and along the river. another site where there are plans to Further downstream the embankment is redevelop for recreational use. Much of well know'n for its boat houses and the rest of the Wandsworth Riverside is continuous public slipway known as being redeveloped as residential and ’Putney Hard’. Among the buildings office accommodation, which should behind the embankment are several improve riverside access. popular riverside pubs. The most famous of all the riverside redevelopment sites is Battersea Power Putney Pier is owned by the PLA and Station. Controversy has surrounded the used by passenger boats on their way to site for many years, with little progress to and from Hampton. It is surrounded by date on beginning the leisure based in-stream moorings, some of which are proposal. operated by the PLA. Access to the river for walking is good in Downstream of Putney Bridge the south some areas, but poor in others, mostly bank becomes much more industrialised due to the industrial use of the river and access to the river decreases. The bank. There is strong commitment from River Wandle enters the Thames close to the Local Authorities to implement the Wandsworth Bridge, and although it is Thames Path when sites are the site of a busy waste transfer station, redeveloped, riverside access is there are proposals to redevelop the increased. Wandle Basin, increasing access and improving its amenity value. 9.4.3. Chelsea The most significant open spaces along Chelsea Harbour is one of the new the 6 miles of the Wandsworth bank are landmarks on the Thames in west Wandsworth and Battersea Parks. The London. It is separated from Chelsea former has been the subject of a Wharf by Chelsea Creek, which is also feasibility study for a water sports centre the border between the Boroughs of with slipway. This proposal has not yet Hammersmith and Fulham, and been taken forward. Kensington and Chelsea. The Creek is 9.4.2. Battersea part of the Thames Metropolitan Site of The 200 acres of Battersea Park is a very Importance for Nature Conservation, and important area of open space in London, is included in Kensington and Chelsea’s with at least 5000 visitors per day and up Ecological Survey. There are proposals to enhance the ecology of the Creek, with the possibility of using it for environmental education.

The only public riverside parks in Chelsea are Cremorne Gardens and a small area close to Albert Bridge. There is, however, good visual and physical access to the river along Chelsea Embankment. The riverside w'alkway is almost complete in the area, the only major block being the Lots Road Power Station.

Cheyne Walk forms an historic background to the river and its unique architecture has been recognised by the Visual access to the river is generally Local Authority, who have designated it good, although the flood defence walls a Special Conservation Area. River bank and the busy road running alongside the enhancements have had a dramatic effect river do obscure views. The Houses of on the river, with decorative street lights, Parliament form one of the most repaving, benches along the impressive riverside buildings and are embankment and the lighting of the the backdrop of numerous Thames Albert Bridge. landscapes. The primary features on the river are Among the many popular visitor Cadogan Pier, which is ow'ned and attractions along the Westminster bank managed by the PLA. Another much less are the Tate Gallery and Cleopatra's used pier is within Cremorne Gardens, Needle. There are also excellent views and is leased by a local canoe club. across the river, and from the 9.4.4. Westminster Hungerford Bridge to the South Bank Centre, County Hall and Lambeth Palace. The Embankment continues through One of the most important functions of Westminster, with Victoria Tower the Thames as an amenity in this densely Gardens being the only large park on the urbanised area, is its 'openness'. It river bank. It is managed by the Royal provides space in an otherwise built up Parks Commission. There are several area. other small but important pockets of linear open space along the river, Access onto the river is limited except including Pimlico Gardens and via steps and stairs, the primary function Shrubbery, Riverside Gardens close to of which is as an escape route from the the Tate Gallery, and Victoria river. The most important facility on the Embankment Gardens. All are managed river is the Westminster Boating Base, by Westminster City Council, the Local where training in canoeing and sailing is Authority responsible for the Thames available to young people. This is the between Chelsea Bridge and Temple. only facility of its kind on the central reaches of the Thames (see Appendix 7). The Embankment is also home Co several riverside walk. Despite the fact that there pub ancl restaurant ships which are are no traditional riverside parks, where permanently moored to the bank. All there have been recent developments these ships are of historical interest, to riverside recreational space has been maintain the character of the area and included and is popular with local add to the river landscape. employees on lunchtime breaks.

Westminster pier is the busiest of the 10 A significant feat has been the creation PLA operated piers on the Tideway. It is of St Paul's vista, enabling views to and from here that most tourists explore the from the river of the south transept of St Thames on passenger ferries, going Paul's Cathedral. A series of views of the upstream to Hampton, or downstream to dom e of the Cathedral from along the Greenwich. There have been proposals river, the river bridges and the southern to upgrade Westminster Pier but as yet river bank have been protected by the the balance between a more commercial City Corporation since 1938. Views of the development, and maintaining the Monument to the Great Fire of London character of the bank has yet to be and many historical church spires and resolved. steeples can also be enjoyed from the river. The Temple and the major open spaces associated with it are an important part Recreation on the river is largely of riverside landscape between confined to the tourists on passenger Westminster and the City. ferries, and cruisers passing through London. Temple Pier, owned and managed by the PLA, is busy with passenger services, while Swan Lake Pier was used by the Riverbus Service. There is a long term plan for another pier in the area, as part of the City Corporation’s support of the use of the Thames as a transport route.

9.4.6. Lambeth On the south bank the London Boroughs of Wandsworth and Lambeth meet just upstream of Vauxhall Bridge, an area of the river dominated by the new MI5 9.4.5. The City building. In general the character of the The ‘City’ commences at the legal area of river bank remains industrial along the The Temple. Although the Embankment Albert Embankment, with a busy road continues beyond Black friars Bridge, it hampering access to the river. becomes less busy as it moves away Lambeth has several riverside from the tourist honeypots of redevelopment sites, the most current Westminster. The short length of river being the Effra site, just upstream of bank managed by the City Corporation Vauxhall Bridge. The development brief has only a few missing links in its is for a mixed development o f residential, retail and leisure use, a partnership between the City including a riverside walk. Corporation, Westminster, Lambeth and Southwark councils, and other relevant At present there are lew visitors to this organisations. It has recently won Single pail of the river. Lambeth Palace is the Regeneration Budget Funding (<£2.6 first riverside attraction, not least because million) which will be used to improve of the excellent view's across the river to accessibility and further integrate the the Mouses of Parliament. north and south banks of the Thames in The south bank has become a popular central London. Six key infrastructure destination for visitors between projects have been identified, including Westminster and Black friars Bridges. new piers at Millbank and Bankside, the Here there are a series of renowned upgrading of Hungerford footbridge, and buildings including County Hall, for a southern extension to Blackfriars which there are plans to redevelop as a Railway Station. retail and leisure complex. The South Bank Arts Centre, the National Theatre 9.4.7. Southwark and other facilities make this an The London Borough of Southwark takes important part of London's entertainment over from Lambeth just upstream of provision. The South Bank Centre is due Blackfriars Bridge, and continues along for rejuvenation in a scheme being the south bank to Surrey Docks. As coordinated by the South Bank much of this area is still controlled by Employers Group. This will add to the the London Docklands Development attraction of this area and hopefully Corporation the Borough's involvement increase the use of the river and Festival in planning is reduced. Pier. In the past Southwark's river bank was The visitor attractions continue with the an important industrial area and this community based regeneration project at character has been retained in much of Gabriel's Wharf and the Coin Street the redevelopment that has taken place, Community development, which has for example: Hays Galleria, Butlers created cafes, craft shops, and riverside Wharf, Shad Thames, St Saviours Dock open space, including the popular and the Design Museum, all o f wiiich are Bernie Spain Gardens. The future of this visitor destinations. One of the most area as a focus for entertainment will be significant new attractions is the assured when the refurbishment of the proposed redevelopment of Bankside OXO building and the Globe Theatre is Pow'er Station as a Tate Gallery com p lete. extension. The popularity of all these destinations is dependant on access, and Riverside parks in Lambeth include the most obvious route is via the river. Jubilee Gardens, an area of Metropolitan Open Land adjacent to Hungerford The key focus of activity in this area of Bridge. Ow'ned by the South Bank the Thames is Tower Bridge. Although Centre, part of the site is currently used most visitors come to the Bridge from for car parking. the north bank via the Tower o f London, the mooring of HMS Belfast on the south Cross-river communication will be bank is an important attraction. improved by the Cross River Partnership, Riverside parks include Bankside Park and Potters Fields, both busy in summer, WANDLE BASIN: The confluence of the mostly with local residents. Wandle and Thames has industrial use, but there are plans to upgrade the area 9.4.8, Recreational Sites and and create visitor facilities. Opportunities: Putney Bridge to Opportunity: to create both bankside and Tower Bridge river facilities for visitors, including BARN ELMS SPORTS CENTRE: Former temporary mooring, river access routes ILEA centre with riverside water sports and a link to the Thames Path. centre. WANDSWORTH PARK: Riverside Park, Opportunity: to promote the water sports writh possible future development o f centre and extend the use of the facilities water sports centre and slipway. to the general public and other clubs. Opportunity: to create a controlled access PUTNEY EMBANKMENT: Base for much route to the river, and to promote and of London's row'ing activity, with slipway teach water sports on the Thames. available to the public. RANSOMES DOCK: Former industrial to maintain the area as one Opportunity; dock now with plans for redevelopment. of the most popular access routes to the Opportunity: to use the dock for water Upper Tideway, and create better based activity and develop the banks for car/trailer parking if possible. informal waterside recreation, linked to CREMORNE GARDENS: Riverside park the Thames bank. with a small pier used by a local canoe BATTERSEA POWER STATION: Well club. known development site with proposals to develop the pier, Opportunity: for leisure/retail use. enabling public use of an important, and Opportunity, to integrate the under used, riverside facility. redevelopm ent with the river, opening CHELSEA EMBANKMENT: Despite the public access, riverside services and the busy riverside road, this is an important Thames Path. 'open' area along the Thames, popular BATTERSEA PARK: 200 acre riverside for walks and with joggers. park, including the now unsafe Festival Opportunity: to maintain and promote Gardens Pier. the historical features of the riverside. Opportunity, to integrate the park with CHELSEA CREEK: Small creek on the the river, and redevelop the use of the north bank, used for training in white pier, working with the PLA and water canoeing. Important natural passenger services. habitat. WESTMINSTER BOATING BASE: A Opportunity: to enhance the Creek, using centre which offers low cost training in its ecological value as the basis to create water sports. Also generates income as a an educational and recreational resource. riverside venue for conferences and CADOGAN PIER: Owned by the PLA and functions. used for permanent moorings. Opportunity: to promote the use of the Opportunity: to promote the use of centre as a water sports training facility, Cadogan Pier for visitor moorings. to all sectors of the population, by extending the programme. Requires NEW RIVERSIDE DEVELOPMENTS: financial support. Including Hays Galleria, Shad Thames, The Design Museum, WESTMINSTER PIER: Busiest pier on the Opportunities: to increase visitor river as it is one of the main stops for numbers and encourage them to travel passenger services. out of the west end to visit these new Opportunity: the pier needs to be attractions which make the most of their upgraded, and there is an opportunity to riverside location. develop better visitor facilities, integrating the pier with the bank and FUTURE RIVERSIDE DEVELOPMENT improving access to the river. SITES: These include Prices Candle Factory, Nine Elms Pier, Effra site. WESTMINSTER RIVERSIDE PARKS: Opportunity: to integrate the river with Includes Victoria Tower Gardens, Victoria the new development by creating and Embankment Gardens, and Riverside promoting public access, creating the Gardens at the Tate Gallery. Thames Path and riverside facilities for Opportunity: Maintain and promote these visitors where appropriate. as riverside open spaces.

THE SOUTH BANK: Including County 9.5. The Lower Tideway: Tower Bridge to the Hall, Jubilee Gardens, & the Arts Centre. Thames Barrier Opportunity: to make better use of the river at what is a popular visitor 9.5.1. Rotherhithe destination. Improve the visual and Once the river flows downstream of physical access to the river and promote Tower Bridge and around the the use of Festival Pier. Rotherhithe peninsula it is more obviously a working river, despite the GABRIEL'S WHARF: Coin Street fact that many of the docks and wharfs Community project, including the OXO are no longer active and have been Tower and pier, the Globe Theatre and converted to residential units. The main the craft shops and restaurants on the visitor facilities are a Scandic Crown site of the old wharf. hotel and an important new youth Opportunity: to integrate this hostel. All of this redevelopment brought development with the South Bank Centre with it new pedestrian access along the forming a major riverside visitor river as part of the Thames Path. destination. The Surrey Docks complex covers over BANKSIDE POWER STATION: One of 300 acres of the Rotherhithe area. It the largest redevelopment proposals on consists of Russia Dock, Lavender Dock, the Thames, this redundant power Canada Dock, Greenland Dock and station will become an important leisure Surrey Water. Some are disused, others attraction, incorporating an extension to are part of residential developments. the Tate Gallery. Surrey Docks was the site of a marina, Opportunity: to link the development to and is home to a former ILEA owned other parts of London using the river as water sports centre, now funded by the a communication route, as well as a London Docklands Development landscape feature and integral part of the Corporation (LDDC) and the Sports development. Council, and managed by the London area was one of the early riverside Borough of Southwark (see Appendix 7). redevelopments and it is a well established visitor destination in London. 9.5.2. Deptford Tobacco Dock was another early retail The industrial and residential use of the and leisure redevelopment which has river hank continues through Deptford struggled to succeed, partly because o f with the London Borough of Lewisham's poor access and isolation. housing department owning much of the As the character of the river bank on the riverside land. There are a few small south changes, so it also changes on the parks along this frontage including Pepys north bank, becoming much more Park, a green open space in front of St. industrial, which in many cases is still George's Square, and a Thames Side active. Most of the redundant wharfs and Path. Conveys Wharf, which is a busy docks have been converted to residential industrial wharf, is an important part of use. the Thames in this area. The north bank between the Tower of Deptford City Challenge, which have London and the River Lee is within the £37.5m in funds from Central London Borough of Tower Hamlets Government, operate over the whole of which begins at the Tower o f London. As Deptford and will have a significant this is part of the Docklands, the LDDC positive effect on the area. They are are currently the planning authority. partners in a joint scheme between the The Local Authorities have very little London Boroughs of Lewisham and land ownership along the bank and as a Greenwich, and the Greenwich consequence there are relatively few Waterfront Development Partnership, to parks or public open spaces. The most regenerate the Deptford Creek area. significant of these is Island Gardens There are plans for a leisure Park which lies at the south end of the development at the Creekmouth, which Isle of Dogs. The LDDC have created includes an ocean liner berthing facility, public access to and along the river hotel and other leisure uses. The where possible, but this access is not proposals also include provision for the always upheld by local residents. Specific Thames Path and Ravensbourne riverside areas of the river front have been walk. The decision on whether there will designated as Conservation Areas. These be a barrage will affect these proposals. include the Tower, Wapping Pier Head, Another major impact will be the and Wapping Wall. extension of the Docklands Light Railway In general there is little along the river (DLR) across the river, which would bank to attract visitors, and access to and increase access to an otherwise isolated along it is intermittent. An important site area. is Limehouse Basin which forms part of the Grand Union Canal system, with the 9.5.3. Wapping Limehouse Cut providing an important Back to the north bank, downstream of link to the river Lee. Shadwell Basin has the Tower of London and Tower Bridge a water sports centre which offers is one of the most popular marinas in training for various water activities, London, St Katharine's Dock. This dock primarily aimed at young people (see Appendix 7). improve access and create a recreational facility close to the Thames Barrier. 9.5.4. Isle o f Dogs Proposals for a Thames Barrier park on The most imposing and for some the what is now a derelict site are currently most impressive building along the being progressed. Thames is Canary Wharf Tower. Situated in the heart of the Docklands on the Isle 9.5.6. Royal Docks of Dogs, the Tower looms over the river The LDDC has set up the Royal Docks and dominates the landscape for miles. Management Authority (RODMA) to The docks themselves now have little manage the Royal Docks, which are operational relationship with the Thames. primarily used for recreation by the local The main transport routes to the area are community and schools. The Royal via the Limehouse Link and the Victoria Docks Water Sports Centre is Dockland Light Railway. There is a river one of the largest in London, with key passenger service but it is not well used. activities being rowing, canoeing, and The Jubilee Line extension which is due sailing (Appendix 7). It is envisaged that to open in 1996 will bring a major more competitive activities will be based improvement to transport and in the Albert and King George 5th communications to and within the area. Docks, with more informal recreational use in the Victoria Dock. At present the The Docklands Thames from Island Albert Dock is privately owned and is Gardens downstream is relatively used for waterskiing. unknown, especially as the current route of the Thames Path on the north bank Although the major opportunities for stops at the Greenwich foot tunnel. water based recreation are in the Royal There is certainly potential for Docks, there are considerable developing and promoting access to the possibilities for localised recreation along Thames in this area. the river.

It is important to mention the London 9.5.5. Blackw all City Airport which is based in the One of the most significant proposals for Docklands, close to the Thames. Its flight this area is the Black wall Bridge project path is over the river, and it does have which would have a significant effect on an impact on the landscape through the Thames, both visually and physically. noise pollution. At present the river in the Beckton area and beyond is very isolated. The LDDC 9.5.7. Greenwich are currently the planning authority but The history of Greenwich as a small control of this area will return to the fishing town which marked the eastern London Borough of Newham in 1995. approach to London is still apparent. The LDDC will retain control of the This has a major effect on the river and Royal Docks until 1998. its banks, and how they are used for The best access to the river at present is recreation. The isolated atmosphere that via the few' small riverside parks that surrounded the river as it flowed through exist, i.e. Lyle Park and Royal Victoria the industrial and residential areas Dock Gardens. There is potential to disappears along the Greenwich water front, and the river hank again becomes an important focus for recreation. 9.5.8. Woolwich The industrial landscape continues along The key site in the area is Cutty Sark the Woolwich waterfront to the Thames Gardens, home to its nam esake ship and Barrier. Located among the working to a busy PLA pier, which transfers many wharfs is the Waterfront Leisure Centre, of the 2 million visitors which come to on a 15 acre riverside site. Greenwich every year. Visible beyond the river is Greenwich Park, site of the The Royal Arsenal is an 80 acre riverside impressive Old Royal Observatory. The site which has great potential as a visitor Royal Naval College is close by, and the destination. Proposals include locating markets, shops and cafes in Greenwich the Royal Artillery Museum on the site are popular in their own right. and developing the recreational use of the riverside. The Greenwich foot tunnel is an important route between north and south 9.5.9. The Thames Barrier banks, and on to central London via the This great feat of engineering is now one Docklands Light Railway. of London's landmarks, despite its relatively remote location. The history In this area the river is once again used and working of the Barrier are explained for water sports, with Greenwich home in a Visitor Centre on the site, managed to several clubs offering rowing and by the NRA. sailing on the Thames. Once through the Barrier, the Thames is The London Borough of Greenwich have still 31 miles from the sea, and the responded to the importance of the Estuary presents many opportunities for Thames by supporting the development recreation. The area of study for this of a Waterfront Strategy, prepared by the Strategy is from the Source to the Barrier. Waterfront Partnership, a group including English Nature's Thames Estuary local businesses, community Management Plan will include the representatives and the London Borough production of a Recreation Topic Paper of Greenwich. The main role of the for the estuary. Partnership is to coordinate the regeneration of the 1000 acres of 9.5.10. Recreational Sites an d development land along the 7 miles of Opportunities: Tower Bridge to the Thames bank in Greenwich. Thames Barrier ST. KATHARINE'S DOCK: Most popular A major problem with much of this land marina in London, just downstream of is that it is contaminated. The Local Tower Bridge. Authority are seeking financial assistance Opportunity: to prom ote the use o f the from central government to enable the dock for visitor/overnight mooring. decontamination process. TOBACCO DOCK: Retail development Two of the largest development sites in within former docks. London are part of the Greenwich Opportunity: to develop and promote the Waterfront Scheme, the British Gas site use of the riverside for informal on the Greenwich Peninsula, and the recreation. Royal Arsenal in Woolwich. SHADWELL BASIN WATER SPORTS CENTRE: New water sports centre within a redeveloped dock. Opportunity: to promote the use of the centre to all sectors of the population both for novice training and club use.

SURREY DOCKS: Partially redeveloped d ocks including the form er ILEA water sports centre. Opportunity: to develop and promote the use of the water area for moorings, and encourage the use of the water sports centre for novice training and club use. ROYAL VICTORIA DOCK: Largest of the docks which has become a water sports LIMEHOUSE 13ASIN: Junction betw een facility. Grand Union Canal system and the Opportunity: to develop and promote the Tham es. facilities as a regional, as well as local Opportunity: to create a location for base for w ater sports. visiting craft to moor. Provision of facilities for both river and landside THAMES BARRIER: Flood defence visitors. structure which has become a visitor attraction. CANARY WHARF: Former wharf Opportunity: to develop the Barrier redeveloped for commercial use but Visitor Centre on the south bank, adding which has become a popular visitor to the visitor services available. Develop attraction. the Thames Barrier Park on the north Opportunity: to develop and promote the bank as a public open space, with the visitor attractions and facilities around possibility of further leisure development the docks and integrate these with the on the site in the future. river. KEY DEVELOPMENT SITES: Bankside DEPTFORD CREEK: Industrial area of the Power station, British Gas site river which will be redeveloped in the (Greenwich), Royal Arsenal. City Challenge project. Opportunity: to focus on the river, Opportunity: to improve the visual and including access for informal recreation, physical access to the river and create and where appropriate create facilities facilities for visitors. on the river for moorings, and water sports. CUTTY SARK GARDENS: Busy riverside area of Greenwich. 9.6. Recreational Use of the Tidal Thames Opportunity: to develop the facilities and services to customers in the area, as part 9.6.1. Informal Recreation of the Greenwich Waterfront Upper Tideway. Access to the river bank Development project. is available throughout much of the Thames between Teddington and Putney. Access along the river in Richmond is very good, with walking The foreshore is considered by some a along the hank, relaxing in the parks and potential recreational resource, but there river watching from the pubs and are the obvious dangers associated with restaurants very popular. In this area, the a tidal river. Responsibilities for access hulk of visitors are local residents who routes to parts of the foreshore is use the river hank as a park. There are unclear. Some Local Authorities of course well known destinations which discourage access by blocking off stairs attract tourists. Petersham Meadows, and ladders. Even without access, the Richmond Riverside, and Marble Hill foreshore in itself is a very' important Park are some of the most popular. contributor to the openness of the river.

The growing interest in conservation and Lower Tideway: Traditionally the Middle wildlife has led local conservation groups and Lower Tideway has been viewed as to focus on the river. Several islands are a transport route, and not associated maintained by these local groups. with recreation. The docks and wharfs Nationally known destinations such as were a workplace and the river itself was Kew Gardens, Syon Park and the Old considered dirty and unattractive by Deer Park are of interest in their own Londoners. It is only really since the right and although they are sited on the redevelopment of wharfs that the Lower Thames, they do not fully integrate with Tideway has become a front garden the river. rather than a hack yard. The result has been the creation of river front access, The Thames Path follows the south/west with shops, cafes, pubs and homes hank throughout this area, and forms a w hich look onto the river. The Tham es very popular route for both short and now provides an attractive, relaxing longer walks. Although the north/east place for local residents, those working bank is not fully accessible, there is close to the river and visitors. commitment within Local Authority planning systems to create a riverside Walking and river watching are the main path where ever possible. riverside activities. To increase access on both the north and south hanks the Middle Tideway: As the river bank Thames Path has been designated to run becomes more urban, active recreation is along both sides of the river. limited and the river's most valuable recreational asset is open space. Walking, 9.6.2. Angling river watching, jogging and cycling along Angling on the tidal Thames is free and the banks are the most popular activities. is popular along stretches of the Tideway When fully implemented the Thames where there is good access to the bank Path will increase access and encourage or the foreshore. The Upper Tidew ay is long distance walking through London. one of the most popular areas, especially Many of the riverside buildings are the w here there are quiet 'rural' locations most visited attractions in London, eg along the bank from which to fish. Houses of Parliament, Tower of London, In some areas, where there are busy Tate Gallery, and the South Bank Centre. pedestrian walkways, angling is The views to and from these buildings prohibited. It is also impossible where across the Thames attract many people there are permanent bankside moorings, to the river bank. and where channel moorings come close a fast flowing tidal river. to the bank. Downstream of Tower Bridge, locally known as the Upper Pool, the The Middle Tideway is much less recreational traffic is limited to those popular for angling for a number of passing through or using the popular St reasons, not least because the flow of Katharine's Dock. Smaller, unpowered river is very fast. As the flood defences craft are rarely seen although canoes and are high, anglers need access to the sailing boats occasionally come of the foreshore and this is not always possible. docks onto the river from the Shad Steps, stairs and ladders are not widely Thames Water Sports Centre. available, and where they do exist, they are often locked or blocked. Boating activity increases again at Greenwich where there are rowing, On the Lower Tideway where the canoeing and sailing clubs. Access is foreshore is more gently sloping and good in this area and the river is wide accessible, angling is more popular. enough to accommodate both As clubs do not own fishing rights along recreational and commercial craft. the tidal Thames it is difficult to estimate Cruisers: The number of craft cruising on the number of anglers who use the the Thames decreases dramatically on tidew ay. the Tideway. Relatively few cruisers 9.6.3. Boating travel through Teddington Lock, primarily because they are unsure of the The tidal nature of the river has a tidal river and are not familiar with the limiting effect on its use for water based few visitor facilities that are available. activities, although it is still a very Many of those who do come onto the important resource, especially the Upper Tideway stay upstream of Richmond Tideway between Teddington and Lock and Weir, not wishing to cruise on Putney, which is known in London as the fully tidal river. the 'leisure river'. Hire cruiser companies do not normally Leisure activities on the Middle Tideway allow their craft to cruise on the between Putney and Tower Bridge is Tideway. One of the key issues raised by dominated by passenger services carrying those cruisers who do go through tourists to riverside destinations and Teddington is the lack of visitor cruisers passing through. It is generally moorings, or at least information on accepted that recreational boating on where short-term moorings are available. these busy central reaches is limited, primarily due to the inherent dangers There are a significant number of associated with a tidal river which has cruisers permanently moored on the high flood defences, and because of Tideway. As the PLA do not operate a large commercial craft using the area. licensing system it is difficult to be The Westminster Boating Base is the only precise, but by estimating the number of consistently active source of recreational moorings, both on the main channel and boats in this area, and as it is a training in marinas, it would seem that there are centre, those on the river are well approximately 1400 craft on the trained in the skills necessary to navigate Tideway, above the Thames Barrier. Hire Craft: Cruisers are not generally clubs set Lip by companies for their available for hire on the Tideway as it is em ployees. not suitable for novice cruising. Before The Upper Tideway is home to one of the Upper Tideway becomes fully tidal, it the most famous of all rowing events, is possible to hire small rowing boats. the Boat Race between Oxford and Those who hire these are encouraged Cambridge Universities. not to pass through Richmond Lock and Weir. Rowing becomes popular again much further downstream in Greenwich. Tiiere It is,however, possible to hire a boat are also facilities for rowing within the with a Skipper. This service is most waters of the Docklands. commonly used for corporate entertainment and functions. Problems for rowers normally stem from tensions with other users, particularly the Canoeing: There are 12 canoe clubs on passenger services. the tidal Thames, that is almost one third of the total on the river. Most o f these 9.7. The Tideway: Planning Policies and are based upstream of Putney or Strategies for Leisure on the Thames. downstream in the Lower Tideway at There are 13 Borough Councils with Greenwich, where the river is wider and riparian responsibilities for the Thames there are fewer commercial craft. between Teddington and the Thames As well as club 'paddlers' the Tideway is Barrier. They are listed below with their used by casual canoeists who gain relevant planning document, normally access via the public slipways, especially the most recent Unitary Development those at Putney. Plan (UDP) (see also Section 1 for On the Upper Tideway there are some Regional Planning Guidance). conflicts with other users, particularly rowers and passenger craft who create London Borough of Richmond on wash. Access from the high banks can Thames: UDP 1992 Deposit. be a problem in some areas. London Borough o f Hounslow: Sailing: There are 7 sailing clubs based UDP 1992 Deposit. on the Tideway, again these are located - Waterside Strategy 1993 on the Upper and Lower reaches, London Borough o f Wandsworth: avoiding the busy routes in central UDP 1992 Deposit London. - Guidelines for Thames Riverside Development 1990 Rowing: This is the most popular o f all - The Central Wandsworth 1990 the boating activities in London. There London Borough of Hammersmith are 61 rowing clubs based on the & Fulham: Tideway, which is over one third o f all UDP 19 91 Deposit. rowing clubs on the river. The vast London Borough of Kensington majority of these are based in the Upper & Chelsea: Tideway, with the Putney reach UDP 1992 Deposit dominated by rowing. There is a mixture Westminster City Council: of school and university based clubs, and UDP 1991 Deposit a number which have evolved from London Borough of Lambeth: changed. Rather than being viewed as a UDP 1993 Deposit dirty, working river which was hidden Corporation o f London: behind buildings, it is now viewed as an UDP 1994 Adopted attractive and historical feature to which - City Riverside access is created wherever possible. * London Borough o f Southwark: Positive action to enhance and protect UDP 1991 Deposit the Thames is the consistent view of all * London Borough o f Tower Ham lets: the riparian Boroughs. UDP 1992 Deposit * London Borough o f Newham: 9.7.2. Unitary Development Plans UDP 1993 Deposit LPAC's Strategic Planning Guidance for London Borough o f Lewisham: London, described in Section 1, will set a UDP 1993 Deposit more consistent framework within which London Borough of Greenwich: the Local Authorities can prepare their UDP 1994 Adopted development plans and adopt measures - Waterfront Strategy to safeguard existing sites for essential river related activity.

* For some parts of Southwark, Tower The Thames has its own section in many Hamlets and Newham the London of the Unitary Development Plans. If not, Docklands Development Corporation it is normally included in the (LDDC) are currently the Planning Environmental section and sometimes in Authority. the Leisure section. All the UDPs recognise that the river is a very 9.7.1. Overall Effect o f Planning important landscape feature and some Polices for the 'Thames Boroughs have designated it as an Area Rather than a feature which joins the of Special Landscape Value. This special north and south, of London, the Thames status is extended to riverside open is seen as the great divide. This division spaces, some of which are designated as is not helped by the fact that only one of Metropolitan Open Land. the 13 riparian Boroughs (Richmond) Separate policy documents and strategies crosses the river. As with the non-tidal have been produced for the Thames by Thames there appears to be little several Local Authorities. They include coordination between the Boroughs, the ‘Waterside Strategy’ produced by the either across or along the river, which London Borough of Hounslow; can be confusing for the public who do ‘Guidelines for Thames Riverside not always realise where the boundaries Development’ produced by London lie. Borough of Wandsworth; ‘City Riverside’ The management of the river is further produced by the Corporation of London confused by a number of other agencies and the Greenwich "Waterfront Strategy" who have an advisory role. This can lead These look in detail at the river bank to inconsistencies and a duplication of and recommend site specific as well as effort. overall strategies for the river.

In recent years opinions of the Thames The general theme throughout the UDPs in central and east London have is to protect the setting of the River Tham es in London, and the views to ancl Tham es and its banks, protecting from it. Public access to the riverside and working wharfs and where possible the completion of the Thames Path is returning redundant wharfs to a river encouraged. The archaeological and related industry. ecological value of the river is Local Thames Fontms\ Some Boroughs recognised and there are policies to have set up small committees to focus protect it as a natural habitat. These on the Thames. The London Borough of policies influence development proposals Richmond have the Richmond River along the river bank. They will be Forum which includes both Local reinforced when the new Strategic Authority representatives and external Planning Guidance for the Thames interests. becomes available. This will set a more consistent framework within which the The London Borough of Greenwich have Local Authorities can prepare their taken this a stage further with the development plans and adopt measures Greenwich Waterfront Development for safeguarding existing sites for Partnership. This consists of local essential river-related activity. authority, business and community representatives, and it is responsible for In areas of the river which are derelict managing the regeneration of the river and where there is no potential for river front. It employs Officers to coordinate related industrial uses, the relevant UDPs its work. specify that any redevelopment enhances the quality of the river bank and access 9.7.3, Other Relevant Projects to it. River Thames Landscape Strategy Piers and Moorings: The leisure use of 0 9 9 4 f : This is an important new the river itself is not given priority in the initiative to develop a strategy for the UDPs, except with regards to piers. In landscape of the river from Hampton to general these are supported, as long as Kew. The main funders of the project they do not detract from the Thames were the Countryside Commission, the landscape. There is little recognition of Royal Fine Arts Commission, English the need for visitor moorings as it is felt Heritage and the relevant Local the marinas fulfil this role. The Authorities. Key national and local permanent mooring of ships for a leisure agencies, including the NRA, were use, such as restaurants and bars, is involved in the consultation process and supported in most UDPs, but the the Strategy was submitted to the numbers are limited and the ships must riparian Boroughs. It has now been be of high quality and/or of historical adopted by the relevant Local Authorities value. LPAC have policies for permanent as supplementary planning guidance for moorings published in 1990**. the Thames.

Transport: The use of the Thames as a Launched in June 1994, the Strategy transport route is encouraged by most of takes a detailed look at the landscape of the UDPs which cover the Middle and the Thames, in what is one of its most Lower Tideway. Passenger services are historic stretches. The objective was to supported and in the Lower Tideway develop a detailed strategy, on a reach policies support the industrial use of the by reach basis, for the rehabilitation of the Thames. Plans were developed to Department o f the Environment - 77?ames recreate the best of the old Thames, Study: The Government Office have while integrating with new landscapes commissioned a study into the Thames for the future. The Strategy recognises between Hampton Court and Greenwich the importance of the river as a focusing on the river's history, natural recreational resource and makes and built environment, potential and recommendations which will enhance its opportunities for development. The recreational value. These will be report is expected to be published in reflected in the policies within this Spring 1995 and will be followed by a Strategy. consultation draft of Strategic Planning Guidance for the Thames. The Landscape Strategy has been very well received by the Local Authorities National Rivers Authority - Ixindscape and agencies concerned and a jointly Revieiv: As part of ongoing work on funded Officer has been appointed to improving the landscape of the Thames, implement the detailed recommendations the NRA are preparing a detailed of the Strategy. landscape review of the Tidal Thames. They are working with the DoE Department o f Transport - River Thames appointed consultants mentioned above, Working Group: This Working Group as these studies complement each other. was set up to examine the present The NRA review is site specific and transport uses on the river, the factors detailed, and will make that inhibit the growth of traffic on it, recommendations on landscape design. and the potential for developing freight The final report is due to be published and passenger services. The geographic in 1995. scope of the project is from Teddington to Southend/Sheerness. The Working 9.7.4. Leisure Policies Group's findings and recommendations The Thames is not widely recognised as w ere published on 14th d ecem ber 1994^". a leisure resource by riparian Boroughs, Increasing commercial transport in the particularly in the Middle and Lower Upper Tideway above Putney would Tideway where there is very limited use have a significant impact on recreation. of the river for water sports. Several Large vessels passing through on a Local Authorities are producing Leisure regular basis would make it difficult and Strategies which focus on the docks and unsafe for the numerous small lakes for water sports. Others have recreational craft who use this part of the employed Sports Development Officers, Tham es. who in the London Borough of Richmond works with local clubs to In the Middle Tideway and further encourage water sports. downstream to Greenwich, an increase in commercial traffic would have less The London Borough of Hammersmith impact, as there is relatively little and Fulham has an Outdoor Pursuits recreational boating, except from the Officer who has a remit to develop water Westminster Boating Base. It will be very based activities, focusing on the Barn important to discuss potential increases Elms Water Sports Centre. In in traffic with the clubs who use the Wandsworth a similar role is fulfilled by Tham es. a Water Sports Development Officer who is partly funded by the Education Dept. visitors to riverside attractions which are inaccessible by road and rail. The In terms of facilities the Boroughs of London Tourist Board and Convention Hounslow and Hammersmith and Bureau have Ix-’en involved in Fulham own boat houses which they promotional activity for the Thames and lease to local clubs. Westminster City its passenger services. There is certainly Council grant aid the Westminster scope to work with the riparian Boating Base, as do the London Borough Boroughs to develop these campaigns of Newham for the Royal Victoria Docks and the Cross-River Partnership will be Water Sports Centre. Surrey Docks Water seeking to improve cross river Sports Centre is managed by the London communications. Borough of Southwark's Leisure DSO, although it is funded by the LDDC and 9.7.6. Key Issues fo r the Future the Sports Council. Riverside Development Sites: As described Local Authorities own and manage earlier in this section, there are several parks and open spaces along the numerous development sites along the river, but as well as these formal open Thames in London. Although the UDP spaces, the Thames itself is like a 'park', system makes provision for public access providing open space even where access and the Thames Path, there is pressure to it is poor. to encroach into the river by foreshore reclamation. It is very important to 9.7.5, Tourism protect the foreshore both for its value as The riparian Boroughs do appreciate that part of the open space provided by the the Thames is a core element of Thames and for its ecological value. London's tourism industry, but there is little coordination of promotional It is also important to consider the effect activities or facility provision along the that riverside development has on visual river. In the Middle Tideway the north access around the river. There are a bank in Westminster has always been the number of historical and memorable main focus, but the redevelopment of views both across and along the river the wharfs on the south bank has which could be lost by inappropriate opened it as a visitor destination. It is in development. this area that there is an opportunity for In the Lower Tideway redevelopment the Thames to become a feature which provides an opportunity to enhance the joins rather than divides London. riverside and open areas which have not

The Boroughs generally have little been available to the public. The British contact with the passenger services Gas site on the Greenwich Peninsula and although these are an important part of the Royal Arsenal are the most obvious tourist industry. There is an opportunity examples. Not only is there an to work with these operators and the opportunity to open access to the river bank, but also onto the river itself. FLA to provide a coordinated quality service throughout London, so increasing access along the Thames. The Industrial Use o f the Riverside: London is still the busiest port in the UK Promoting the Thames as a transport and it is important to maintain the route for tourists increases the number of working river, which is a key element of the London economy. It requires a Authority the piers again became the system of wharfs and docks, some of responsibility of the PLA, who now own which are in danger of being lost and manage 10 of them. through redevelopment for residential Piers are very expensive to maintain and and commercial use. This Recreation as many are not well used they are an Strategy recognises that these wharfes unprofitable operation. The PLA are need to he protected. currently reviewing their piers and will Tran sport on the 'lhames: Another part of suggest options for their continued the working river is its use as a transport operation. In the past plans to develop the route. The Thames is used to transfer busier piers have had difficulty gaining 17% of London's waste material and it is planning consents as it was felt that their proposed that this could increase, as a development would be detrimental to the way to alleviate heavy road traffic character of the river. through London. There is potential for It is vital to the river that the piers are conflict between recreational craft and maintained and promoted. There is scope the waste transfer barges in the Upper to integrate them with the river bank, and Middle Tideway. This Strategy increasing public access and providing a recognises the value of the Thames as a unique opportunity to bring people onto transport route and suggests that, as has the river. happened in the past, agreements are reached through discussion and River Thames Festival: The plan to compromise between the various celebrate the Thames in 1995/6 with a interests. festival of river events will raise its profile and create new' facilities and services Piers a n d Moorings: Permanent moorings which will improve it as a leisure on the Tideway are not very popular as destination. Its long term success will many are in the channel and therefore depend on the resulting ongoing activities difficult to access. A large number of and the importance given to it by the these are vacant. Marinas are, however, various agencies. The Festival provides an relatively expensive and throughout the invaluable coordinating focus which the recession there has been a decrease in river currently lacks. the number of craft within marinas. At present there is a shortage of well Policies, recommendations and action planned, accessible moorings, both plans which relate to these sites and permanent and for visitor use. issues are included within Section 10.

Piers on the Tideway have been through a number of different managing agencies in recent years. Originally they were owned by the Thames Conservancy, then they transferred to PLA control. The GLC took responsibility for them until it was disbanded, when they were handed back to the Thames Water Authority. With the privatisation of the water industry and the creation of the National Rivers E C T I O N 10

FUTURE

POLICIES

FOR RECREATION

ON THE

THAMES

E C T I O N 10

FUTURE POLICIES FOR RECREATION ON THE THAMES

he policies, recommendations and there are separate policies for the tidal actions within this Strategy river. More detailed background Document are proposed by the information is descrilx'd in earlier T sections and cross-referenced as River Thames Recreation Strategy Project Team, a partnership between the NRA appropriate. and the Sports Council. They reflect the NRA's National and Regional Strategies 10.1 .Sustainable Recreation on the Thames for Recreation and Navigation, and the The growth in popularity of outdoor Sports Council's Regional Strategies for recreation has led to concerns about the Sport and Recreation. Local Plans and detrimental effect which visitors can have Structure Plans have been considered, as on the environment, both natural and have the views of numerous statutory built. The topical issue of sustainability is and non-statutory agencies and interest now being applied to recreation in an groups. Finally and most importantly, effort to protect the environment, or at there has been substantial consultation least to limit activity which may cause with those who will be most affected by irreversible, detrimental change to the the Strategy, the river users. resource upon which it depends.

In tandem with the growth in outdoor The Policies propose desired position recreation there has been an increase in statements for the recreational use of the public concern about the environment Thames corridor. The associated and the need to protect it. In the long Recommendations suggest how the term the most effective way to achieve a Policies can be achieved, and the Actions sustainable level of recreational use will are practical guides to implementation. It be by capitalising on this concern, and is suggested that the organisation which positively influencing behaviour. is named first takes the lead on the Action. Although the landscape, character and subsequently the use of the Thames In general the same policies apply along changes throughout its course, there is much of the Thames, with a few site an underlying theme throughout the specific differences. Where appropriate length of the river which supports its POLICY 1: recreational use, but not at all costs. SUSTAINABLE RECREATION ON THE T h e Tham es is a natural resource ancl an THAMES important wilcilife habitat. Its banks are 1.1. The remote, rural areas o f the also home to many people. If well Thames will be protected from planned and sensitively managed, development which w ill affect its recreational activity can live in harmony tranquil nature. The enjoyment o f with wildlife, local residents ancl other these rural areas for recreation river users, maintaining it as an should be encouraged, through invaluable landscape feature which is so positive visitor management which is often taken for granted. sensitive to nature conservation and An additional feature of the Thames, to the characteristic river valley particularly in London, is the number of landscape. organisations and interest groups with 1.2. In urban areas o f the river, open responsibilities for, or have an interest in, spaces will be protected from its m anagem ent. T h e role o f all these development and enhanced where bodies is not always clear ancl there is appropriate. The well established sometimes confusion over both recreational use o f the Thames and geographical and functional its banks should be encouraged by responsibilities. The important factor is improving and promoting access to the need to manage the river areas which are environmentally consistently, as a moving, linear feature robust. which is one of the most important natural resources in the country. 1.3- The Thames in London will be protected as valuable open space and An overall approach to the management an important landscape feature. of the recreational use of the Thames is Access to and along the river banks recommended in Policy 1. This proposes w ill be improved and promoted a context for the more specific policies where safe and environmentally which follow. acceptable.

1.4. Developments close to the Thames should reflect its special character, in terms o f height, scale and quality, enhancing rather than detracting from the river landscape.

1.5. The management of the Thames and its banks should be coordinated to ensure that there is consistency and cooperation, with a clear understanding o f individual responsibilities, both among river 'managers' and the public.

122 10.1.1. The Balance between and educational trusts such as the Recreation and Conservation Thames Explorer Trust (Appendix 6). Achieving sustainable recreation means It is not only designated sites which are finding a balance between recreational environmentally sensitive. The use and the conservation o f the natural conservation of the river itself as a habitat and landscape features. The natural resource must be encouraged. recreational use of the river is long The type and degree of this conservation established and over the years this use will depend on the site, its nature and its has brought substantial change to the use. Many areas are already w ell used natural environment. The role o f for recreation, including rural honeypot conservation is to protect and enhance sites and some urban areas o f the river. the natural habitat o f the river and to The developm ent o f these existing sites ensure that new developm ent on the is encouraged, as opposed to the river bank is carried out sensitively. A creation of new honeypots in more new NRA report, to be published in environmentally-sensitive areas, where Spring 1995, reviews the research the ecological, archaeological or available which measures the impact of historical aspects of the river could be recreation on wildlife. The report damaged. recommends that further research is needed for river environments . The majority of those who use the Thames and its banks are aware o f the Specific sites along the Thames have sensitivity o f some river habitats, but been given special designations which carelessness can lead to damage. As identify them as being important wildlife many of the paths in the Upper and habitats which should be safeguarded, Middle Thames are through fields which such as Sites o f Special Scientific Interest are farmed, gates must be closed and (SSSI's) and National and Local Nature care taken with crops and farm animals. Reserves (NNRs and LNRs). General access to these and other conservation Even in urbanised areas, the river bank areas is controlled to protect against is an important natural habitat, and is damage to the sensitive habitat. As home to many historic buildings. Litter is access is important to realising a significant problem, especially where opportunities for recreation on the river, rubbish collection is difficult. there is potential for conflict. In environmentally-sensitive areas the answer is to provide managed, educated access, ensuring that visitors are aware o f when they can visit, how they should behave and why the area is sensitive.

A major part of managing access and influencing behaviour will be via a process of public education. This could take the form of information boards, guided walks, leaflets, school visits, working through local interest groups POLICY 2: have on the river and asking them THE BALANCE BETWEEN RECREATION not to cause damage to the river banks, and to collect their litter. AND CONSERVATION Recreation and conservation interests 2f. Encourage the provision o f must recognise each other’s information and interpretative importance, discuss issues where material to influence and educate there may be conflict and be recreational users o f the Thames prepared to find a mutually about the natural habitat. acceptable solution. The recreational 2g. Those using the river bank will be use o f the Thames and access to it encouraged to remember that will not be created or promoted farmland may be used fo r crop where it will cause irreversible, growing or keeping livestock, and detrimental change to the natural care should be taken to ensure that environment and river landscape. there is minimal disturbance.

Recommendations: 2h. Those ‘managing’ the river bank should give priority to rubbish 2a. Initiate a programme of research collection, and encourage the public which ivill investigate the impact o f not to litter the river bank all relevant form s o f recreation on the river environment, with the aim ACTION o f establishing an environmentally 2.1. Review existing research on the sustainable recreational carrying recreational capacity o f river capacity. environments and begin a programme of 2b. Recreational development should research which help establish the effect be focused in existing honeypot sites of recreation on a river environment. and away from less robust areas. FOR: NRA (Recreation & Conservation). 2c. Where the development o f facilities or activities are proposed 2.2. Identify sites along the Thames an environmental assessment should which are more environmentally be undertaken, follow ed by post­ sensitive and less able to sustain project monitoring. recreational use (many of these are already known). Plan and implement 2d. Encourage conservation among managed access to these areas. members o f the public by managing FOR: NRA (Conservation & Fisheries), access to sensitive areas and LAAs Countryside/Conservation Officers, educating visitors about the area local conservation groups. they are visiting. This may involve both time and spatial zoning depending on the site and season.

2e. Encourage sports clubs to reinforce environmental awareness among their members, reminding them o f the effect their activity can 2.3. Provide and distribute information POLICY 3: and advice which encourages all WILDLIFE ON THE THAMES recreational users to be sensitive to the Those who have a responsibility for environment, through information conservation on the Thames are boards, leaflets, and local conservation encouraged to instigate and promote groups. a system whereby members o f the FOR: NRA (Recreation and public who are concerned about an Conservation), River User Groups, environmental issue can seek Conservation Groups, Governing Bodies information and advice. o f Sport, CCPR, Sports Council.

2.4. Organise ‘river clean ups’ in local Recommendation; areas, encouraging local people to 3 a. The provision o f public become more involved with looking after information on wildlife and their their local river. habitats on the Thames, should be FOR: LA’s; Local Groups; NRA continued and developed. (Environmental Services). ACTION 10.1.2. Wildlife Issues 3.1. Identify and where possible provide There are specific issues which arise sources of information and advice on from time to time which affect, or are specific problem issues. affected by, the natural environment. At FOR: NRA (Conservation), RSPB, other present they include an overabundance relevant agencies. o f Canada geese which destroy the river banks through intensive grazing and 10.2. Enjoying Recreation on the Thames fouling. The Department of the Environment have set up a working The Thames is synonymous with water party to investigate this problem and based activities such as angling, rowing, have published a leaflet, ‘Canada Geese - canoeing, sailing and cruising. Although A guide lo legal control methods’. the river is both a national and regional resource for these activities, by far the Another issue is the overfeeding o f majority of visitors to the Thames use it waterfowl (swans, ducks) by the public, for informal recreation. which can lead to conflict with other The importance of the Thames for users. informal recreation is often undervalued The latest wildlife issue perceived to be and undersold. It is taken for granted by a problem by anglers is the suspected many local people and overshadowed by depletion of fish stocks by cormorants. other more heavily promoted visitor Although anglers feel this is an issue, attractions, such as the Cotswolds, there is no evidence to suggest that there Oxford, Windsor Castle, and the is a problem on the Thames. numerous places o f interest in and Members of the public who have a around London. The pull of visitors away concern about an environmental issue from the Thames to other areas helps it often do not know where to find to sustain its attractiveness as a mral relevant information or advice. retreat, even in urban areas. The type and nature of visits to the Thames varies from visits to the riverside for picnicking, walking the dog, bird watching, painting, camping, to just river watching. Others hire a cruiser on the river, take a trip on a passenger ferry or wralk the Thames Path. For all these activities the river provides an ideal backdrop but although people come to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, they still need basic facilities such as toilets and refreshments.

Most trips centre on the riverside cities and towns where visitor services are available. Riverside pubs are particularly in recent years that the Thames in busy in summer when customers can central London has been viewed as ail take advantage of their location. asset which adds value to developments on the bank. Consequently the river is There are several sites on the Thames now integrated with these new where there is an opportunity to improve developments, rather than hidden behind the amenity value of the river by the them. addition of visitor facilities. These include sites where there are already Although they contribute significantly to some facilities and established access, as the local economy, visitors are not well as areas where there is potential to always popular with local residents. increase public access. One such site is More specific policies fo r water sports on the official source of the river near the Thames are included later in this Kemble. The Source will mark the section. Policies 8-17 apply to all beginning (or the end) of the Thames recreational users o f the river. Path, which will be officially opened in 1996. W ith this in m ind it w ould seem 10.2.1. Is the Thames Safe for appropriate to mark the area more Recreation? significantly, but without taking away from the rural environment (see also Before advocating policies which Section 6). promote the use o f the Thames for recreation it is important to clarify the Lock sites are a prime example of areas issue of safely, is the Thames safe?' is a where visitor services could be common and legitimate question asked improved, as are the banks of the river by those w ho are considering using the in towns and villages. In urban areas Thames for recreation. Water safety such as Oxford, Reading and in London includes a numl^er o f issues, including where there is derelict riverside land, the risk of drowning, risk of collision there are development plans which it is and water quality. These apply to all hoped will improve the riverside, both forms o f recreation which could result in for visual and physical access. It is only contact with open water, in other words both bankside and on water activities. enables those using the river for recreation to obtain simple information Water Qua lily: Although the quality of on which they can base their decisions. water in the Thames has improved, there FOR: NRA (Water Quality, Recreation); are inherent dangers with the quality of LAs (Environmental Health Depts). open water. Most activities based on the Thames involve some sort of contact Water Safety: There are always dangers with the water, whether it be angling, associated with flowing, cold, open rowing or cmising. As it is a public water. For this reason swimming in the navigation everyone has the right to use Thames is discouraged. The most the river and they do so at their own vulnerable areas are where there is a risk. The managing agencies must concentration o f p eop le using the minimise the risks and provide riverside and where the banks and flood information so that the users can make defence are high. Local Authorities and informed decisions about their activity. other agencies provide measures to At present information on water quality minimise the risk o f drowning in areas is available, however the public which they own or manage. The major perception is that they do not know difficulty is maintaining safety and rescue where to find this information, and when devices which are susceptible to they do it is difficult to understand. vandalism. Another difficulty is knowing which are the most effective measures to POLICY 4: use. WATER QUALITY The blocking of gates and ladders (often Those who have responsibility for illegal) to prevent access to the foreshore water quality w ill continue to work to o f the tidal Thames has also led to the maintain and, where possible, loss o f important escape routes from the improve the quality o f water in the river, and grab chains have not always Thames. been maintained. The PLA have been working with a number o f Local Recommendation: Authorities to improve safety along the Thames, and a report will be published 4a. A system be developed which in 1995 entitled ‘Review of Lifesaving gives the public information which Provision along the River Thames: Report they can understand and use to make and Recommendations’. This is a major decisions on how water quality will step forward in terms o f public safety effect their use o f the Thames. The along the Thames in London. ultimate decision on participation in water sports is, however, with the In addition the London Rivers individual Association published The Thameside Safety Study - A Guide to Good Practice’ ACTION giving advice to those with a 4.1. The NRA and Local Authority responsibility for the river bank along Environmental Health Officers will work the tidal Thames. together to review the current method of For those using boats on the river the disseminating information on water NRA issue a ‘River Thames H andbook’ to quality and develop a system which all craft upon registration and the PLA issue the ‘Pleasure Users Guide to the Recommendations: Thames’. These include safety guidelines, 5a. Landowners and managers o f and ‘dos and den ts’ while on the river. areas along the Thames which are The Governing Bodies for the various used fo r recreation will be water sports (see Appendix 6) also issue encouraged to provide effective safety guidance to their members. safety equipment. Advice on what is Despite the high activity levels there most effective is available from have been very few' accidents on the agencies such as RoSPA. Tham es. 5b. Access routes to and fro m the One of the more controversial issues is river and foreshore, such as gates, the different perceptions of dangerous steps and ladders should be river conditions. The NRA and PLA are maintained in a condition which rightly cautious when the river flow is does not detract fro m their use as an fast. Advice to all river users is not to go escape route, especially in urbanised afloat in a strong stream. Those who are areas. more experienced in water sports are often afloat in waters which are 5c. New developments along the bank perceived to be more dangerous than the should be designed with safety in Thames, and in some instances they do mind and include adequate safety not agree with the advice of the features and rescue equipment. Navigation Authority. Obviously this can 5d. Structures in the river should be cause conflict. T h e p o licy to date has made as safe as possible fo r the been to inform the public of the dangers, recreational user and, where encourage them to behave carefully, but possible, should improve the in the end individuals are responsible for potential fo r recreational use. their own actions. Information on the state of the 5e. Coordinate form al dialogue navigation is available from the NRA and between the relevant agencies to PLA. achieve a consistent approach to safety on the Thames. These agencies POLICY 5: include the Local Authorities, NRA, WATER SAFETY PLA, RoSPA, the Governing Bodies o f All river users and the general public sport, commercial users, recreational will be encouraged to act in a safe users and relevant landowners. and responsible manner when on or 5f Improve the provision of close to the river. information on safety via Tourist Those taking part in water sports Information Points, signage, leaflets, should be aware o f safety regulations educational campaigns, and training with regards to their activity, schemes within sports clubs. equipment and crew, and abide by the Codes o f Practice issued by their 5g• Local BCD\ ARA and club G overning Body o f Sport. representatives should continue to Swimming in the Thames will be discuss safety with the NRA and PLA, discouraged. particularly with regards to events, f o r which they require consent. The 10.2.2. Access fo r Recreation system o f providing and acting upon The availability of access to the Thames information on the state o f the river for recreation varies significantly will continue to be reviewed and betw een rural and urban areas. In rural updated by the NRA, river users and areas where there are relatively few Governing Bodies o f Sport. bridging points or lanes leading to the 5 b. Those with responsibility fo r river, access does not exist. Locks have regulating the standards o f craft their own access routes but often these should ensure that these standards are over private land with no public are enforced rights of way.

5i. Derelict craft abandoned on the Even where access routes to and along river should be removed, as they are the Thames exist, they are not always potentially dangerous and are obvious and information about them is detrimental to the quality o f the not readily available. This applies equally landscape. to urban and rural areas. Where industrial use is ongoing access is ACTION obviously impossible. Other areas where 5.1. Local Authorities with urban access is available may be unsuitable as riverside will review river access points a visitor destination. There are various and escape routes, including chains, reasons for this, not least being the gates, ladders, and with the Navigation historical perception o f the urban Authority ensure they are effective. This Thames in London as a ‘dirty' river, with reflects the PLA Safety review in London. unattractive, derelict, and isolated areas FOR: LAs, PLA, NRA (Navigation). o f bank.

5.2. The NRA, PLA and Local Authorities Improving access brings a dilemma. Too will continue to review their advice on many people and certainly too many cars water safety and where necessary will change the character of the river, yet improve its delivery to both Thames there are numerous local people who based clubs and the river users in would appreciate better access. There is general. certainly scope to improve the signage FOR: NRA (Recreation and system on existing routes telling people Navigation), PLA, Local Authorities. how to get to the river, both on foot and by car. This also applies to the urbanised 5.3. NRA and local representatives of the Thames where access often exists but it UCU and ARA will continue to develop is not always obvious. systems for advising on river conditions, with the users ultimately taking When improving access it is important responsibility for their own safety. not to cause distress to the rural FOR: NRA (Navigation), I3CU and ARA. environment and to look for ways to minimise the impact on the local 5.4. Remove derelict and unsafe boats residents. The concentration o f the which have been abandoned in the river. majority o f visitors in robust honeypot FOR: NRA and Local Authorities. sites is favoured by conservationists as it causes least impact on the wider river environment. Some areas will only he and those with a disability w ill be suitable for low key, 'local' use, rather encouraged to enjoy the Thames. than becoming a honeypot site. Visitor management will be influenced by Recommendations: information provision and the availability 6a. Pedestrian access, including of parking (see also Policy 2). provision fo r the disabled, should be facilitated where possible, with vehicular access where appropriate, in light o f environmental, conservation and local interests. 6b. Access to the river fo r recreation will be focused in areas which are environmentally robust and where the impact on local residents can be minimised through traffic and visitor management programmes. Assessments on appropriate levels o f access will be made on a site by site basis. 6c. Existing routes to the Thames which may have become disused or are currently inaccessible should be reviewed and improved if POLICY 6: appropriate, with priority given to ACCESS FOR ALL pedestrian access. Routes to and 6.1. The use o f the Thames and its across the Thames should be signed banks for informal recreation, from appropriate access points. including walking, w ill be 6d. Circular routes which include the encouraged, and the resource Thames should be created and maintained and managed to signed, where appropriate, and accommodate appropriate activities based in areas which have existing, w h ere there is potential and it is o r the potential for, visitor facilities. appropriate to do so. Developments along the Thames should include the 6e. Public transport routes to the river as a positive feature, enhancing names should be encouraged and it where possible, improving public promoted. access and protecting historical views. ACTION

6.2. W here it is possible and safe, 6.1. Carry out a review o f all access access routes and associated facilities routes to the Thames, both pedestrian and services will include provision and vehicular, including public transport, fo r the disabled. These w ill be for both the able-bodied and disabled, promoted to relevant organisations suggesting enhancements where appropriate. This would include a review limited to those who have already found of the signage system, recommending their way to the lock. additional signs in appropriate areas. Lack of information is not just a problem FOR: LAs; Parish Councils; Countryside for users o f the river bank, those cruising Commission, Ramblers Association, NRA on the river, particularly in hire craft, (Recreation and Navigation). also feel that they are missing interesting 6.2. Begin dialogue with the relevant features through lack o f information and organisations to discuss the possibility o f inadequate signing to places o f interest marking the Source of the Thames more from the river. significantly and creating better visitor There is certainly scope for better facilities in the area. distribution o f public information FOR: LAs, Countryside Commission, NRA throughout the river. T h e newly form ed (Recreation), local brewery, Cotswold Central South Tourist Board are aware of Canal Trust, and the landowners. the problem. The last tourist board guide to the Thames was published in 1984 10.2.3. Information and an updated version is needed. One of the most frequent comments The London Tourist Board and from visitors to the Thames is the lack of Convention Bureau provide a telephone information - leaflets, guide books, information service, ‘Visitorcalf, and they databases. There has been a surge in the have a promotional campaign known as publication of Thames guides during ‘Take time to discover the Thames’. This 1994, but often the general public do not involves numerous organisations, know where to find them. The most including London Underground. popular publication, especially for those wishing to walk the Thames Path, is the Information is also an effective Ramblers Association Guide to the educational tool, helping visitors to Thames Path. In 1996 an official guide to appreciate the natural environment and the Thames Path will be published to understand that the Thames is an coincide with the launch o f the Path. important wildlife habitat. This There are very few guides to local areas philosophy o f conservation through o f the river, except those pul together by education is strongly encouraged. voluntary groups.

The NRA and some Local Authorities have been addressing this problem by producing joint leaflets, eg ‘Walks around the Thames in Abingdon’, produced in partnership with the Vale of White Horse District Council and ‘England's River, jointly funded with W ycom be District Council. The NRA also have an ongoing programme to install information points at key lock sites. These include local information and maps, but their use is POLICY 7: which will benefit the maximum INFORMATION FOR RECREATION number o f visitors. All agencies involved with visitors to the Thames should seek to ACTION coordinate their information and 7.1. Produce and disseminate local publicity material, especially the information which educates people provision and promotion of good about the Thames. This will include visitor guides, information points leaflets, information panels and and databases. exhibitions. FOR: LAs, NRA (Recreation & Recommendation: Conservation), local interest groups.

7a. New guides to the Thames should 10.2.4. Facilities be encouraged to include local Along with access go visitor facilities, information which will inform both such as car parking, toilets, rubbish local people and visitors about the collection and refreshments. These Thames and its surrounds. facilities are available in most riverside 7b. Guides should be distributed towns and in riverside areas o f London effectively, in places where the which are popular visitor destinations, general public would expect to find but they are almost non-existent in the visitor information, eg Tourist more remote areas, in both urban and Information Centres (TIC's), rural environments. The character of libraries, hotels, pubs, and other some rural areas w ould be diminished outlets. by inappropriate development but a possible compromise is the creation of 7c. Local TIC's, libraries and other small, low key car parks in suitable information sources should be areas, set back from the river, preferably fam iliar with the information that is in the villages. available on the Thames, with guides and maps available where possible. Toilets are a particular problem. There are long stretches o f the river without ~ 7d.~ The setisitive signing o f any facilities. Some o f the NRA locks do attractions from the river should be have them but often they are not always encouraged. This will help those in available to the general public. Toilets boats appreciate the areas pose a particular problem due to the surrounding the river, as well as the maintenance requirements, but if more river itself. visitors are to be encouraged to the 7e. Information on the Thames Thames, there will need to be an should educate the visitor about improvement in these basic facilities. environmental issues, encouraging There are numerous pubs and hotels on them to appreciate the natural or close to the river, even in the remote environment and behave in a way parts of the Upper Thames, but they do which is sensitive to it. not always make the most of their 7f TJje provision o f information riverside location. They have facilities points along the river is encouraged which many visitors to the Thames Tfjese should be positioned in sites cannot Find elsewhere, eg car parks, toilets, and refreshments. There is 8b. The provision o f small ( approx. certainly scope for these pubs to provide 20 cars), sensitively-planned ca r an increased service, which would also parks, set back from the river, will be benefit their business, especially with the encouraged in specific sites where new Sunday licensing hours, environmental impact will be minimal Existing car parks should Access and facilities can be created when be reviewed and where appropriate there are developments on-or close to the landscape quality improved. the Thames. Not only does this provide a public facility cost effectively, it ensures 8c. Riverside land owned by the NRA, that new developments consider the in particular lock sites, should be Thames and its banks as a recreational reviewed to assess the potential fo r resource, reflected in the design of the all forms o f recreation, followed by building and landscape features. the preparation o f integrated site management plans. POLICY 8: FACILITIES FOR RECREATION ACTION 8.1. The provision o f visitor facilities, 8.1. Review visitor facilities close to the including toilets, should be a priority Thames, ie car parks, toilets, and as they are a prerequisite for a good refreshments, and develop a plan for service to visitors to the Thames. provision of these in appropriate areas Current provision should be where the impact on the natural reviewed, and action taken to fill in environment is acceptable. gaps where appropriate and FOR: NRA (Recreation & Navigation) acceptable, taking the local and LAs. environment into consideration. 8.2. Contact riverside pubs, reminding them of the importance of the Thames as 8.2. Where there is potential to a visitor attraction and encouraging them negotiate a planning obligation in to provide services for those walking respect o f development on or near along the river. the Thames, through a Section 106 FOR: NRA (Recreation) & LAs. agreement (Town and Country Planning Act), this obligation should 10.2.5. Customer Services be used where appropriate to benefit It is important to recognise that all those the needs o f recreational users of the using the Thames, whether on a boat, on river and its banks. foot, in a car, on a bicycle or in a wheelchair, should be treated as a Recommendations: customer by those involved in managing 8a. The provision o f visitor facilities the river and its banks. including refreshments and other There will always be difficult customers services, eg camping and B&B, will be and those w ho cause trouble. Vandalism encouraged in appropriate areas is a problem in some areas, as is anti­ and where there is existing riverside social behaviour such as bridge jumping, development, eg lock sites, pubs, but most visitors to the Thames are there riverside villages, redundant to enjoy the river scene, relax and have riverside property, fa rm buildings. fun. The navigation staff, in particular the lock keepers, are on the frontline both those in boats and those on foot, meeting the public, sorting out problems, through the provision of local and encouraging safe behaviour. It is information, leaflets and maps at lock important that these roles be carried out sites. with the customer as the focus. In the FOR: NRA (Navigation and past there has b een a perception that Recreation). river users are just those in boats. In fact the vast majority of visitors to the 10.2.6. Passenger Services Thames come to use the river bank and Passenger services are an important part they should be treated as customers by of the services available on the Thames. those managing the resource. They bring large numbers of people to enjoy the river in a safe, controlled POLICY 9: environment and they provide a good GOOD SERVICE ON THE THAMES opportunity to educate an interested Priority should be given to ensuring audience about the river. In London they the provision and delivery of a also provide an important link along and quality service to those who use the across the river. Thames and it banks for recreation. There would seem to be an opportunity Recommendation: to extend passenger services to parts of the river where they are currently 9a. Recruitment criteria fo r staff lacking, with additional stops at the who will be meeting the public on the smaller towns and villages in rural areas, Thames wiU not only focus on and within urban areas. technical ability but will require the candidate to have good interpersonal Obviously passenger services, like most skills and an interest in working with tourist-dependant services, are very the pu b lic . sensitive to weather conditions. They only operate in the summer months and 9b. Those s ta ff who regularly meet depend primarily on tourists. Another the public will be given ongoing limiting factor in their operation is a lack -training-and encouragedto- develop - o f accessible public wharfs and piers their skills in customer care. where they could have additional stops.

ACTION On the non-tidal Thames busy locks can 9.1. Those who are managing the affect passenger service schedules. There Thames should develop their customer- have been calls by the operators for orientated philosophy and implement a passenger services to have priority at recruitment, induction and training locks but this is not possible under programme which focuses on good current legislation. customer relations l^etween frontline staff The large size o f the boats and the fact and visitors to the Thames. that they are on the river almost every FOR: NRA (Navigation and day in summer does lead to conflict with Recreation), PLA, LAs who manage staff other users, particularly rowers. on the river. (See also Section 4). 9.2. Continue to encourage lock keepers to help and inform all visitors to locks. POLICY 10: 27 piers, 12 o f which are currently PASSENGER SERVICES ON THE operated by the PLA (see Section 4). Some of the piers are very’ well used, THAMES others are rarely used. The operation of Passenger services which provide a the piers is expensive, and maintenance quality service should be encouraged costs are very high. The PLA are as a means o f bringing the wider currently reviewing the operation of public to the Thames. piers in the hope that they can becom e more cost effective. Redevelopment of Recommendations: the more successful piers to improve and 10a. Passenger operators should extend visitor facilities is one option but review the service they offer to the has fallen foul of planning controls. public and improve quality where necessary. POLICY 11: 10b. The opening o f public wharfs in PROVISION OF PIERS ON key towns and villages should be THE THAMES encouraged, in discussion with the The active piers on the tidal Thames passenger services who may wish to are an important part of the have additional stops. infrastructure o f the river and must be protected, and where possible 10c. Passenger boats should consider enhanced to provide improved other craft on the river, especially services for the public. unpowered boats. Wash fro m large boats is a m ajor problem fo r rowers, Recommendations: canoeists and moored craft and it can also damage the banks. 11a. The redevelopment o f cost- effective piers should be encouraged ACTION where the additional features on the 10.1. Review access to public wharfs and pier are leisure related and their discuss the opening of additional routes design compliments the local for passenger boats. environment FOR: NRA (Navigation), PLA, LAs and passenger services. ACTION 11.1. Continue the ongoing review of 10.2. Continue formal dialogue between existing piers, identifying those suitable the Passenger Service Federations, the for redevelopment, followed by Navigation Authorities and LAs, to feasibility studies for sites which have discuss the service offered on the river. potential for new piers. FOR: NRA (Navigation), PLA, Upper FOR: PLA, I As. Thames Passenger Federation, Thames Passenger Services Federation, LAs. 10.2.8. The Hire Craft Industry The ability to hire a boat, whether a 10.2.7. Piers motor cruiser or a small unpowered The system o f piers on the tidal Thames boat, is the only way most people ever is vital to the operation of the passenger experience boating. Hiring is also the traffic on the river. There are a total o f first step to bu ying a boat ancl is seen as general promotion of cruising holidays very important to the sale of boats. For on the river appears to be inadequate. In these reasons it is important to maintain addition, the training of novice boaters is a healthy hire trade on the Thames (see not always as it should be, which can Section 5). lead to tensions with other users of the river. Hire cruisers are still an important tradition on the non-tidal Thames The contribution of the hire craft although the industry has declined industry to the local econom y is dram atically since it was at its peak in significant, not only in terms o f the early 80's. Currently there are a total employment, but the amount spent by of 16 hire operators on the tidal river. hirers. In a recent survey it was Due to the hazardous nature of parts of estimated that a hire boat spends on the tidal Thames, hiring cruisers is not average £347 on a w eek-long trip. encouraged downstream of Teddington. Small boats can b e hired in several POLICY 12: riverside towns, but this service is not as HIRE CRAFT ON THE THAMES widely available as would be expected. 12.1. The opportunity to hire craft on There certainly seems to be scope to the non-tidal Thames is a valuable expand the availability of small craft hire, service and an important component both powered and unpowered, on the o f the river economy which should non-tidal Thames. be protected and encouraged where There are opportunities to hire motor appropriate. Diversification o f hire cruisers in most areas of the non-tidal cruise businesses will only be Thames. There has been a dramatic accepted in the following decline in the business o v e r the last circumstances: decade. Bookings have dropped - hiring craft and associated activities significantly, companies have not been is still the main part o f the business; able to invest in their boats, therefore the - without some diversification the quality has declined and customers are business would not survive; ~lessMnclined-tO'choose-a-cruising------the diversification does not resulf in holiday. Several companies have not the loss o f river bank facilities and survived this downward spiral and have is in keeping with the river sold up or diversified part of their environment; riverside lands. Within the Local - the proprietor is offering customers Authority planning system such a quality product with a good, safe diversification is not always possible service. Customer expectations and holiday 12.2. The provision of new hire patterns have changed and the hire cruise bases and/or additional industry needs to adapt by reviewing moorings for hire cruisers on the their holiday offer and promotional non-tidal Thames will only be techniques. Short breaks, one way trips considered: and special interest holidays are growing in popularity and could be - in areas where such a development accommodated on the Thames. The would be environmentally sustainable; 12g. Those who manage the river - in areas where there is existing should review the provision o f development; visitor moorings and associated - in areas not already congested with facilities; adequate and safe laybys boating activity; at locks; and safety precautions at - when it is believed there is weirs. sufficient demand. ACTION Recommendations: 12.1. Review the marketing of hire craft 12a. Hire companies should continue on the Thames and produce a 5 year to adapt to meet changing customer marketing strategy for the industry. needs, offering a high quality Consult with other agencies such as product and increasing their share British Waterways, British Marine o f the holiday and visitor market. Industries Federation and the British Hire 12b. Priority should be given to Craft Federation. promoting boating holidays FOR: TH C A, NRA (Navigation), LAs. throughout the UK. This requires a 12.2. Review the availability of small hire coordinated effort from both the boats on the Thames and prepare a industry and those who 'manage' the developm ent plan to improve this river and its banks. service. 12c. Those bringing new hire craft FOR: NRA, LAs. onto the Thames will continue the 12.3. Prepare a 'customer service' pack move towards craft with low wash for the hire cruiser operators, covering characteristics. training, safety, local information and information on environmental issues on 12d. The provision o f small craft fo r the river. Work with hire cruiser day hire in the riverside towns and operators to encourage its villages will be encouraged where implementation. appropriate. FOR: THCA, NRA (Navigation and 12e. Companies who hire out craft, Recreation). especially motor cruisers, should provide comprehensive training fo r 10.3. ACTIVE SPORTS ON THE THAMES novice boaters, with instruction on The issues and policies described for the passage through a lock and general recreational use of the Thames guidance on how to treat all the apply to all the more formal, sporting other users o f the river. activities which take place on the river. 12f Hirers should be provided with In addition there are more sport-specific comprehensive manuals, including issues which affect both the quality and information about the river, visitor quantity of participation. Conflict facilities, the services available, and between activities and the organisation most importantly advice on safety, of events on the river are cross-activity including instruction on the correct issues and the policies for these are use o f buoyancy aids and life jackets. applicable to all activities. These are followed by issues and policies which POLICY 13: are specific to individual sports. MANAGING RECREATIONAL CONFLICT 10.3.1. Recreational Conflict All river users should recognise that Conflicts between a diverse range of the Thames is a shared resource and recreational users is part of life on a that tolerance o f other activities is resource where space is limited and required. activities are not always compatible. On Conflict is best resolved by the Thames the conflicts between water- cooperation and river users should bourne and bankside activities are most understand the activities o f others acute between anglers and those in and learn how to react when they boats, primarily motorised craft. The meet on the river, through novice problem is at its worst along the banks training programmes which explain which have trees or hedgerows, as other activities and provide guidance boaters often find it impossible to see on the responsible use o f the river the hidden anglers, so disturb them and bank. when they cruise close to the bank. Moored craft are also a problem for Recommendations: anglers, as they take up bank space, preventing angling. 13a. Governing Bodies o f Sport will be encouraged to prepare There can also be problems between the development plans which examine various waterbourne activities. Small the position o f their sport on the unpowered craft are affected by wash Thames as a whole and its from larger boats, although the new relationship with other activities. byelaws introduced on the non-tidal Tham es in 1995 should alleviate this 13b. The new byelaws should be problem as they include a mandatory 8 effectively disseminated and km speed limit, except for the agreed communicated to all those using the exemption of coaching launches. non-tidal Thames, particularly those in motor cruisers.------Conflict can also arise lx;tween bankside users, particularly walkers who suffer 13c. Those cruising will be when the footpaths become blocked encouraged to stay in the main with angling equipment or where the navigation channel and away from path has been narrowed due to bank the banks o f the river where erosion at angling points. possible, minimising disturbance to anglers. Most of these problems are limited to 13d Encouragement will be given to periods of peak activities, primarily the extension o f the coxswain summer weekends when there are training programme, which has been numerous craft on the river, anglers successful in Oxford, to other clubs along the bank and people walking on along the river. the paths. 13e. Anglers are encouraged not to block footpaths o r access routes, or cause bank erosion when taking part other river activities. in their sport. The users o f fishing FOR: Clubs, NRA (Recreation), River poles will be encouraged to be User Groups. mindful o f others on the river bank, 13-6. The exemption of coaching as well as those on the river. launches from the 8 km speed limit on the non-tidal Thames could cause ACTION conflict. The NRA will ensure that all '13.1. Review attendance at River User regulations are communicated to clubs Groups and encourage better attendance and that these will be strictly imposed. and improved dialogue between river FOR: NRA (Navigation), Thames users. Rowing Council (TR C ) and Local Clubs. FOR: NRA (Recreation & Navigation), Governing Bodies of Sport, PLA, and 13-7. The successful Oxford University Local Clubs. coxswain training programme will be review ed in the hope that it can be 13.2. Redevelop the users’ code for the extended to other parts of the river. Thames and distribute to both clubs and FOR: TRC, NRA (Navigation) and Oxford casual users. University Boat Club (OUBC). FOR: NRA (Recreation & Navigation), PLA, Governing Bodies of Sport and 10.3.2. Events on the River Thames Local Clubs There are numerous events traditionally 13 3- Educate and influence the casual held on the Thames, both competitive sportsman using the river by placing and more informal. They include angling leaflets (including the CCPR and Sports matches, rowing regattas and Councils Water Recreation Code) with competitions, canoe races, boat rallies, local tackle shops, chandleries, and canoe tours, and organised group walks water sports outlets. Disseminate along the bank. They range in size from information at lock sites, access points the international Henley Regatta, to the such as slipways and with rod licences Oxford and Cambridge boat race, to the and craft registrations. local Wallingford raft race. All these FOR: NRA (Recreation, Navigation & events add to the river scene, enlivening Fisheries) and Governing Bodies of it and encouraging 'spectators'. For the Sport. sports involved they are an important 13-4. Governing Bodies of Sport will be part of the competitive calendar and help asked to provide information on their to motivate juniors. They also have activity for other users, including econom ic benefits for the local guidance on how to minimise conflict, community. which will be distributed to other clubs. Inevitably there are also negative effects. FOR: NRA (Recreation), Governing The most common is conflict with other Bodies of Sport, CCPR and River User users due to congestion on the river, Groups. which can block the navigation. If the 13 5. Clubs will be asked to include a events are not properly organised they section in their novice training scheme can also cause problems on the bank, eg which provides information on blocking access routes, parking environmental issues on the river and on difficulties ancl causing nuisance to those walking along the bank.

Both the NRA ancl PLA set conditions for holding events on the river and at present the PLA operate a system on the tidal Thames whereby the organisers of events which have more than 100 participants agree a code of practice, ACTION drawn up by the PLA, Thames Division 14.1. The NRA and PLA will continue to Police and the St John Ambulance. It lie Ip with the management o f water- must be signed by all parties before the bourne events, either by their physical event can proceed. presence at the event or, if more appropriate, they will advise on a system POLICY 14: o f club marshalling. MANAGING EVENTS FOR: NRA, PLA ancl Event Organisers ON THE RIVER Further information on all the activities Events on or along the river are an included in the following policies will be important Thames tradition and found in Sections 2, 3,

14a* Those responsible fo r events on Trends the Thames must ensure that they From a recent NRA National Angling have contacted all relevant parties■, Survey it is estimated that there are including the NRA, PLA, LAs, and land approximately 2.7 million people owners to obtain the necessary participating in angling at least once a consents. year. In the NRA Thames Region it is 14b. Marshalling o f th^event on the estimated that there are 600,000 anglers, day should be effectively organised —including children.underJ 2 years. It is__ to ensure that it is run safely, does impossible to say how many of these not cause an incident, or conflict fish the River Thames but it is fair to say with other users o f the river or its that many of them do. Although there is banks. high quality game fishing in the tributary streams and in some still waters, the 14c. The dates, times and location o f main River Thames is primarily a coarse events should be made known to fishery. other river users, using the River User G roup system, as soon as Figures from the National Federation of possible, especially to those in the Anglers show that club membership is in immediate area. Despite the fact that decline, although this is not reflected river events are important, the needs throughout all clubs on the Thames o f other river users must not be where membership continues to increase forgotten. although more slow ly than a few' years ago. Some believe-that many anglers are no longer joining clubs but buying day busier with boating activities the tickets when they need them. This is in potential for conflict increases. Many part due to the increasing cost o f club angling clubs lease fishing rights from membership, caused by the escalating landowners, with public fishing confined cost o f fishing rights. to NRA and some Local Authority owned land. Anglers pay for their activity through the national rod licence system and in fees Lower Thames: As the NRA own the river to their club. Currently in the Thames bed in this area, angling is free where Region the rod licence contributions the landowner allow s access to the bank. cover the cost of the NRAs Fisheries This is in com plete contrast to the U pper Service. Anglers also make a contribution and Middle Thames where angling clubs to the local economy, primarily in tackle lease most o f the fishing rights. Although shops where they buy bait and other angling is popular in some areas, the supplies. numerous moorings mean that access from the bank is difficult, and the river There has been criticism from anglers itself is very busy. that despite the fact that it is one o f the most popular participation sports in the Tidal lljames: From Staines downstream country, the Sports Council rarely there is a public right to fish from the support angling projects on rivers with river banks of the Thames, except in grant aid. areas where the Local Authority feel it is Just over half of the clubs based on the not appropriate. These are designated as Thames believe that the demand for ‘No Fishing’ zones. In the Upper angling is increasing, and most clubs feel Tideway angling from the hanks is that they could accommodate at least relatively straightforward, and popular. In some o f this demand. About tw o thirds the Central and Lower Tideway it is o f clubs say they offer some sort o f much more difficult as access to the novice training for those new to the water is reduced due to the high flood sport. defence walls, and fishing from the Upper names: Angling is popular in the foreshore is limited to the few hours Upper Thames, especially between around low tide. New riverside Oxford and Cricklade where the developments, and concerns about safety relatively few cruisers make life much has led to the blocking o f access to the easier for anglers, as do the mooring-free foreshore, severely restricting the ability banks. Much o f the riparian land in the to fish on the Tideway. area is leased to angling clubs. The Oxford and District Angling Association 10.4.1. Quality of the Fishery alone represents 40 clubs w ho Fish in the O xford area. There are numerous clubs, The Thames is one of the most important many from further afield, who have fisheries in the country. H owever there fishing rights on the Upper Thames. The has been a number o f issues raised by only area available for public angling is anglers which they believe have an in the city of Oxford. impact on the Thames as a fishery. These are issues which need further Middle Thames: Angling continues to be investigation and include: popular, although as the river becomes - over-abstraction of water in the Middle developments which could affect the and Lower Thames; Thames as a fishery or impede - control of flows via weirs, changes in access fo r angling. water levels and low flows; 15b. The river habitat below water - water quality; level should be considered when - loss of breeding areas by habitat planning developments such as destruction, possibly caused by moorings, marinas, and landing dredging, boat movements, bank stages. Sites fo r such developments protection schemes and stream should be sensitively selected to characteristics. avoid possible damage to habitats, The effect of boats on the river habitat is including reed beds and fish perceived by anglers to have contributed breeding and nursery areas. to this decline, although there is no 15c. The remaining areas where scientific evidence to support this view. public fishing is available should be As yet there has been no comprehensive protected and appropriately signed, research on the effect of boating on as there are relatively few areas o f rivers and previous research on canals is the Thames available to the casual not believed to be applicable to the river angler. environment. 15d. The Sports Council are asked to POLICY 15: review their position on angling, make clear their support system and ANGLING ON THE THAMES to view the activity in a positive light As an important national leisure as one o f the most popular leisure activity and a traditional Thames activities. sport, angling should be encouraged and the few remaining areas where ACTIONS public fishing is available should be 15.1. Research commissioned to protected fo r use by the casual investigate the quality of the Thames as a angler. fishery. FOR. NRA, possibly as part o f a national Recommendations: project. 15a, The needs o f anglers should be 15.2. Bank management practices to be considered when deciding upon new reviewed by NRA Navigation, Flood Defence, Fisheries and Conservation Sections to establish a system whereby fish breeding areas are created and safeguarded. FOR: NRA (Navigation, Fisheries, Conservation).

15 3. Continue to work on weir fishing at NRA sites, reviewing access, facilities and safety. FOR: NRA (Recreation & Navigation). 10.5. MOTOR CRUISING that any right o f navigation has to be Trends (see Section 4) negotiated with riparian landowners. The nature of the river above Lechlade, ie Motor Cruising is one of the most visible relatively narrow and shallow in summer, activities on the Thames. The river has makes it impossible to take anything been used as a navigation channel since other than small boats to the area. In the Roman times, so cruising is certainly a past there have been unsuccessful traditional Thames activity. As it is a lobbies to extend the navigation for public navigation everyone has the right larger boats, creating locks and widening to travel on the river, as long as they the river. These schemes were not fulfil the legal requirements of the supported by the NRA. Navigation Authority. The Thames above Oxford has always Currently there are 19,400 craft registered l^een much less busy with cruisers than on the non-tidal Thames, 70% of which further downstream, and it is home to are pow ered craft. An additional 10,000 only 6% of all permanent moorings on craft visit the Thames annually, either as the river. As well as the relatively few tourists or competing at river events (see permanent moorings, larger boats cannot Section 4). Just over 10,000 (90% ) o f all come upstream as they are unable to pow ered craft are permanently moored cruise under the low span of Osney on the river, 58% along the channel, 42% Bridge. The increase in cruising activity in marinas. above O xford in the past few years is Motor cruising as expected, is seasonal, primarily due to visiting craft coming with the majority of activity taking place onto the Thames from the Oxford canal in the summer holidays, and bank (see Section 4 & Appendix 3). holiday weekends. Craft registration and Between Oxford and Goring the river is lock traffic information reflects the much busier as seen in the lock traffic marked decline in cruising activity over information, although this is not reflected the last few years. With the recession in the number of permanent moorings as known to be a major contributing factor, the area has only 10% o f the total for the it is assumed that as the econom y river. The m ore frequent towns, villages recovers, boating throughout the country and bridging points enable greater access will recover and cruising on the Thames to the banks and several landowners will become more popular. It is, have in the past taken advantage o f this, however, limited by the ability to moor letting moorings on their river bank. craft permanently on the river. Middle Thames: This area is the busiest There are over 40 motor cruising clubs in' terms o f l>oat traffic, with Caversham on the Thames. These clubs own or lock having the most lock movements on lease areas of moorings and most belong the river (1993), closely followed by to the Association of Thames Yacht Hurley, Temple and Marsh Locks. This Clubs. However, the majority o f cruiser increased level o f use is expected as the owners do not belong to a club. number of permanent moorings Upper Thames: The uppermost limit o f increases dramatically, with this 49 mile the public navigation on the Thames is stretch having 43% o f all river moorings. the High Bridge in Cricklade, beyond O f these 54% are on the main channel, 41% in marin's and 5% in backwaters craft based in the Tideway is not readily (see Section 4 & Appendix 3). available. However, t lie re are a total o f 1400 permanent moorings on the As most people want to cruise at similar Tideway between the Thames Barrier times there are dramatic peaks and and Teddington. The PLA licence troughs in activity, with bottlenecks at approximately 770 moorings for both some locks on busy summer Sundays. commercial and leisure use. They have a In line with the increased urbanisation of further 82 which are available for • the river valley, there are many more temporary mooring. As most o f these towns and villages where temporary moorings are offshore, without onshore mooring is available. However, it is access or facilities, they are not well perceived to be expensive, as there are used and many are empty. few services available and little The most popular moorings on the information provided for visitors. tideway are within the 6 marinas. They Lower Thames: As the most urbanised are perceived to be expensive, both for part of the non-tidal Thames, it is not permanent and visitor moorings. It is the surprising that this area has the greatest lack of visitor moorings on the tidal density of moorings, ie 41% of the total Thames which is the most common in a 17 mile stretch. O f these 52% are complaint by those who cruise on the moored on the main channel, 35% are in Thames. marinas, and the remaining 13% in backwaters (see Section 4 ik Appendix 3). 10.5.1. Demand For Moorings The key limiting factor for cruisers on Lock traffic figures illustrate the the Thames is permanent moorings. In popularity of cruising, with Chertsey and the late 70s when it was felt that cruising Shepperton among the busiest on the on the Thames was reaching saturation river. Further downstream the traffic point, there was a move by the Local drops as relatively few boats go through Planning Authorities to limit the number Teddington Lock onto the tidal river. of permanent moorings, especially in Facilities for cruisers are better as there rural areas. As a consequence many are more boatyards and chandleries, with Local Plans presume against allowing access to shops, pubs and other services any new main channel moorings. frequently available along the bank. Although there is said to be a demand for moorings, many o f the marinas and Tidal Thames: Cruising on the tidal commercial moorings have vacancies. Thames between Teddington and the The demand is for cheaper, conveniently Thames Barrier requires specific skills located, accessible moorings. and a well-powered craft. Relatively few craft leave the non-tidal Thames to cruise It is often said that moorings take away onto the Tideway. Cruising on the from the landscape value o f riverside tideway is also limited due to a lack of settings, but recent research has shown accessible moorings, both permanent and that visitors to waterways like to see for visiting craft. boats as they add life and interest to the scene. Although it is important to retain As the PLA do not require craft to the landscape o f the Thames, whether register, information on the number of urban o f rural, it must not becom e a deserted environment. POLICY 16: The main reason for curtailing the PERMANENT MOORINGS number of permanent moorings on the 16.1. The Upper Thames (above lower reaches of the non-tidal Thames Goring). was the concern that the river was too busy and adding more boats would In the Upper Thames the cause serious user conflict and traffic development o f additional congestion. Over the last few years the permanent moorings on the amount o f river traffic has dropped navigation should be resisted in substantially, with few cruisers on the order to maintain the quiet, rural river on weekdays and outside holiday character o f the river valley. It is periods. believed there is scope for additional off-stream moorings, but these must This decrease in activity does not mean be low key rather than very large that there can be an automatic relaxation marina developments. They should of controls on permanent moorings. If be sensitively located, in areas where traffic on the Thames is to grow again it such development would be must be controlled to avoid the problems environmentally acceptable. experienced in the late 70s. If there is sufficient demand and the supply of 16.2. Middle Thames (Goring - existing moorings is exhausted, there is Staines) and Lower Thames scope for additional off-channel (Staines - Teddington) moorings in specific sites, away from In the Middle and Lower Thames the current bottlenecks (eg Boveney), and in development o f additional areas where a sensitive development of permanent moorings on the moorings would not have an adverse navigation should be resisted in affect on the local environment or the order to maintain those parts o f the natural habitat. There has, for example, river bank which are currently been proposals for a marina in Oxford. If 'empty'. this were small and well planned, then the Thames in that area could sustain 16.3. Throughout the non-tidal such a development. river the creation o f new permanent base moorings should Planning for the number of moorings on only be considered: the Thames is difficult as there is no measurement of carrying capacity, other - in suitable locations o ff the than the perceptions o f river managers navigation; and users. The follow ing policies reflect - when existing moorings in the area current perceptions of river traffic and are fully utilised; the views of those responsible for the * where there are no bottlenecks o f conservation o f the natural habitat. As river traffic; the changing character o f different parts - where the site chosen is robust in of the Thames is affected by cmising terms of nature conservation; activity, and moorings in particular, there - in an area o f the river where there are separate policies for different areas. is existing development; - at appropriate NRA locks as part o f the site management plan. 16.4. Tidal Thames: New permanent moorings on the tidal Thames should only be developed in areas where they will be accessible, well serviced, in a location which is not environmentally sensitive.

Recommendations: 16a. Upper Thames: There should be a limited increase in the number o f new moorings in the next 5 years, when the situation with regards to river traffic should be reviewed again. A 10% increase equates to 144 additional moorings. ACTION 16b. Middle and Lower Thames: 16.1. Review the hanks of the Thames There should be a minimal increase and identify potential sites for off-river in the number o f new permanent mooring. moorings in the next 5 years. At that FOR: NRA (Recreation & Navigation), stage the situation with regards to PLA and Local Authorities. river traffic should be reviewed again. In the Middle Thames a 2% 16.2. Review redundant stages and increase equates to 78 moorings. In moorings, remove those which are the Lower Thames a 1% increase derelict and re-instate natural margins. equates to 37 moorings. Re-establish the use of those which have 16c. Tidal Thames: A review o f the potential, including the promotion of existing offshore moorings which are management o f existing moorings is usable. required, listing those which are FOR: NRA (Navigation & unsuitable and those which are Conservation), PLA and Local vacant. Authorities.

10.5.2. Visitor Mooring

There is a constant demand lor visitor moorings at popular locations. Many of the towns have temporary and overnight moorings, but boaters feel aggrieved when they pay a significant fee (£4 plus) for mooring when neither facilities or information are provided. The problem is most acute on the tidal Thames where it is perceived to be virtually impossible to find a visitor mooring. infrastructure which is not normally available on the river bank. It is felt that Boaters arc happy to pay a reasonable the development of new residential mooring fee if they feel they get value moorings on the main channel removes for money. Visiting boats make a public access to the river. significant contribution to the local economy. Research shows the average POLICY 18: spend per day, per boat, to be £48, spent in shops and pubs. RESIDENTIAL MOORINGS As with other permanent moorings, POLICY 17: residential moorings will not be VISITOR MOORING encouraged on the main river The provision of well equipped, well channel or in areas where they will signed visitor moorings should be a have a detrimental effect on the priority at river banks in Thameside amenity value and conservation towns and villages and in suitable interest o f the river. locations on the tidal Thames in London. Recommendation: 18a. All sites o f residential moorings Recommendation: should have adequate access, 17a. Where possible the provision o f sanitary and rubbish disposal, which facilities such as rubbish collection, is the responsibility o f the riparian toilets, showers and local landowner.; information should be considered, with details o f cost displayed. ACTION 18.1.R eview residential moorings on the ACTION Thames and rem ove those sites w here it 17.1. Review the provision of well is impossible and inappropriate for equipped public visitor moorings in bankside access and services. towns, villages and urban areas along FOR: LAs, NRA (Navigation), PLA. the river, and investigate how they can be provided, focusing on areas where 10.5.4. Facilities there is an existing hard river margin. In general those who caiise on the non- FOR: Local Authorities and NRA tidal Thames feel that the provision o f (Navigation & Recreation). facilities for boaters is good. There are two exceptions to this: toilets and petrol, 17.2. Provide information on the visitor where the safety requirements of sales moorings which are available both on make it prohibitively expensive to the non-tidal and tidal Thames. supply. There are toilets at most locks, FOR: NRA (Navigation), PLA, LAs and but these are often only for men and ATYC. they are not obviously open to the public. At present the general operating 10.5.3 Residential Moorings policy is tliat lock facilities are for the There are few residential mooring sites boaters using the lock, rather than on the non-tidal Thames and in general pedestrians. The problem is most acute they are discouraged as they require an in the Upper Thames where public 19 2. Continue to review NRA-owned toilets are not available close to the river land, primarily lock sites, to investigate in remote rural areas. their potential for permanent and visitor moorings, and facilities for boaters such The provision of other facilities such as as sanitary stations, toilets, water points sanitary stations and water points at lock and rubbish collection. sites is part of ongoing NRA policy. This FOR: NRA (Recreation & Navigation). will be continued as part of a programme to prepare site management plans which will review the recreational 10.5.5. Access onto the Thames potential of all lock sites. Often forgotten are the smaller motor On the tidal Thames there is a general boats which are brought to the river by perception am on g boaters that facility trailer and launched every time they are provision is poor, and associated with used. In general the Thames is bereft of the kick of visitor moorings. all but a few good launching sites, and many slipways are old ferry points with POLICY 19: inadequate parking. The problem is added to by the lack of available public CRUISING FACILITIES ON THE THAMES information and signage showing where Existing riverside facilities and these facilities are. Again the Upper services for boaters should be Thames has more access problems, due protected and the provision of to remoteness, than other areas o f the additional services, especially petrol, river. In the lower reaches there are should be supported in appropriate slipways and launching sites but often areas. only a few people know of their existence. Recommendation: Although the tidal Thames is dangerous 19a. Facilities and services such as for novice boaters, it is important to sanitary stations and toilets should retain access for those w ho wish to be reviewed and provided in launch craft onto the river. At present conjunction with facilities fo r there are 28 launching sites on the pedestrian visitors to the river. tideway, 20 of which are upstream of Putney Bridge. 19b. Locks which suffer severe bottle­ necks at peak times should be reviewed in terms o f layby facilities, POLICY 20: with these improved if necessary. ACCESS ONTO THE THAMES Slipways, drawdocks, and launching ACTION sites are an important part of the 19.1. Continue to discuss with the infrastructure o f the river and they appropriate authorities the provision of should be protected, enhanced and fuel supplies, especially petrol which is encouraged in areas where they will in short su pply on the Thames. not cause undue disturbance o f the FOR: NRA (Navigation), PLA and landscape or the natural habitat. Commercial Operators. Recommendations: * visitors and tourists who visit the river, lock sites and enjoy the river 20a. Existing slipways and environment; draw docks should be reviewed and * the boat-based industries and riverside where necessary upgraded with services; adequate car parking. Where new * riverside residents who benefit from a access points are needed the site well-maintained river. selected must be environmentally robust and close to existing access POLICY 21: points, bridges o r settlements. 20b. Information should be provided FUNDING THE THAMES NAVIGATION both in leaflet form and as road The review o f how the non-tidal signs, telling the public the locations Thames navigation is funded should o f access points. consider its beneficiaries, not only boaters but all those who benefit. It ACTION should review how the costs o f 20.1. Continue the review of slipways maintaining the navigation can be and launching sites and prepare a recovered, both directly and strategy for the refurbishment of old, and indirectly through central or local development of new, slipways and government. launching sites, with adequate car parking and signage. Recommendation: FOR: NRA (Navigation), PLA, and Local 21a, The form ation o f a working Authorities party to review the funding o f the maintenance o f the Thames as a 10.5.6. Economic Factors recreational resource should be Maintaining the navigation of the Thames discussed and progressed by all is a statutory duty of the NRA on the interested parties, including the non-tidal Thames and the PLA on the Navigation Authorities, Local Tidal Thames. On the non-tidal river part Authorities and river users. of the cost of the Navigation service is covered by the registration fee which all ACTION: vessels must pay. The remaining costs 21.1. Continue discussions, with a view are covered by National Government to setting up a working party. funds. The future funding o f the NRA FOR: NRA (Navigation & Recreation), navigation service is under review, with Local Authorities, PLA, River User efforts being made to highlight all those representatives. who benefit. Although the benefits are difficult to quantify, they are significant 10.5.7. Cotswold Canal Restoration to the beneficiaries, who include: The possibility o f restoring the link

* the Local Authorities whose local between the Rivers Thames and Severn economy benefits; via the Thames and Severn, and Stroud * local people w ho use the well- Water Canals has been discussed for maintained paths and riverside as a many years. The Cotswold Canals Trust park; has been set up to progress this project. Success depends on a combination of 10.6. ROWING factors, not least water resources issues which the NRA are addressing. In terms Trends of recreation the project is viewed Nationally the Amateur Rowing positively as a reopened canal would Association estimates that there are provide a circular route to and from the 30,000 active participants in rowing. O f Upper Thames, and consequently an these over 40% are based in the Thames increase in river traffic. It is, however, region, in a total of 180 clubs. Since the realised that other issues, including water 70s participation in rowing has declined resources, need to be resolved. and is now in a static phase. O ne area o f growth has been in women's rowing. The timescale to complete the project is at least medium term (10-15 years) and A key difference between rowing and possibly longer, but a short term aim of other water sports is that most o f it is the Canals Trust is to link the Thames to competition based, with very few 'casual' the Cotswold Water Park. rowers. Training continues throughout the year, so rowers are active on the Thames all year round, although Hood POLICY 22: conditions limit participation in winter. COTSWOLD CANAL RESTORATION Sculling is growing in popularity, at the The rebuilding o f the Thames and expense of eights, leading to more boats Severn Canal along its original route and fewer coxed crews. This trend is is supported as it w ill create an likely to continue. important water based resource and link the Thames to the Severn 7he Upper \Thames. There are some 40 without disturbing the natural line of rowing clubs on the Thames above the Thames above Lechlade. Goring, 27% of the total number of clubs Any moves to increase the on the river. Most o f these clubs (31 are navigability of the River Thames Oxford College clubs) are located within above Lechlade should be resisted. the 1.5 mile stretch o f river between Folly Bridge and Iffley lock where there Recommendation are more than 3000 rowers. Above Oxford there is very' little rowing as 22a. The Cotswold Canal Trust access is poor and the river width is should continue to work with much reduced. Most of the riverside relevant organisations to coordinate towns between Oxford and Goring have mutually acceptable methods o f a rowing club, and there are several restoring the canal local school clubs.

The Middle Thames: Most towns along ACTION the river between Goring and Staines 22.1. Continue to open sections of the have at least 1 rowing club, with several canal and towpath as they are ready for clubs based at schools, colleges and at recreational use. Reading University. The most famous of FOR: Cotswold Canals Trust, LA's. all rowing venues is Henley, home of the international Regatta and soon to be home to a River and Rowing Museum. Although there are stretches of river The Amateur Rowing Association have which are heavily used by rowers, there recognised this imbalance and h ope to are not the same problems as develop a wider profile for the sport. experienced in Oxford. The Windsor There is very little casual rowing on the area is busy but in the longer term many Thames. Most participants are members of the rowers will be using the Eton of a club based on the river. In general Rowing Course. rowing takes place from the club base, The Lower Thames: Here there are 19 rather than travelling by road with rowing clubs (13% o f the total on the trailers to other parts o f the river, except river). As access along most of the river for competitions. bank is reasonable, the clubs tend to be W hen rowers want to train in a quieter less concentrated in honeypot areas, but part of the river they often row further are spread throughout the area. Despite up or downstream, passing through the the fact that the river is busy with locks, some of which have rollers, cruisers, both m oored on the bank and particularly those in popular rowing cruising, rowing in the Lower Thames is areas. both popular and successful. The Tidal Thames. Rowing is very POLICY 23: popular on the Tideway which is home ROWING ON THE THAMES to 61 rowing clubs (which is 41% o f the As an important national sport and a total on the river). Most of this rowing traditional Thames activity, rowing activity is concentrated above Putney should continue to be encouraged Bridge, with a few clubs located and accommodated in appropriate downstream at Greenwich. In the Central areas on the river Thames. Tideway rowing is only available at low tide and the increase in commercial Recommendations: traffic makes it more dangerous. 23a. Following the Sports Council's 10.6.1. Access and Facilities fo r policies o f Sport fo r All, wider Rowing participation throughout all sectors o f the population should be Rowing has a long history on the encouraged, including young people, Thames and is an important tradition. women and the disabled. Unfortunately it is sometimes perceived as being an elitist activity for the 23b. The development o f rowing privileged few. The dominance of the should be primarily via existing sport by public schools and universities clubs, rather than the creation o f perpetuates this perception, although new facilities. New facilities fo r rowing is an activity that could be rowing should be limited to: accessible to everyone. Most clubs have - areas o f the river not already novice training available, but as with heavily used fo r recreation; many sports, promotion is often by word - where there is existing development o f mouth, rather than more on the bank; comprehensive campaigns which would - where an increase in activity will reach other sectors of the population. not damage the natural habitat; - where a new activity/facility will enhance the amenity value o f the . FOR: ARA, TRC, Local Clubs, Schools. river. 23.4. The passage of rowing boats 23c. To m inim ise conflict, rowers through locks will be reviewed, moving from 'home' waters must specifically the need for, and the respect the activities o f the regular condition o f rollers. users o f the waters they are visiting FOR: NRA, TRC. and be given a briefing on the byelaws and codes o f practice which 10.7. CANOEING may operate on other parts o f the river. Trends

23d The negotiation o f access Nationally, canoeing is a growth activity arrangements with and between with forecasts estimating a 15% increase clubs and schools who have river by the year 2000. This view was reflected based facilities is encouraged Often by clubs on the Thames who believe there are mutually convenient times demand will increase in the next 5 years. when facilities are not being used At the moment growth is more or less static, primarily due to the fact that clubs This 'swap' arrangem ent is particularly relevant to schools and do not prom ote themselves very widely. clubs who use the river at different The casual nature o f much canoeing times. activity is reflected in the estimated 100,000 regular participants nationally, 23e. The pro vis io n o f rollers o r yet less than 50% of these are members access routes fo r rowers at locks of the BCU. In 1993 there were should be encouraged in areas approximately 5000 canoes registered on where they are needed the non-tidal river, including club based craft. ACTION 23-1. Clubs on the Tham es which have A trend in canoeing activity is the growth room for growth will be encouraged to in popularity of family 'paddling'. attract new members from all sections of Canoeing is suitable for all ages so is the population via local promotions. ideal for family groups. The recent FOR: Local Clubs, Regional Sports Canoe Camping Club tour of the Thames Council, Local Authorities. (1993) was very popular and brought visitors o f all ages from all over the 23.2. The generic promotion of rowing world to the Thames. will help local initiatives, especially as part of school curriculum. This will be At the other extreme, competitive encouraged throughout the Thames canoeing is also growing, and as a R egion. consequence there has been an increase FOR: ARA, Thames Rowing Council in the number o f race meetings on the Thames. (TRC), Sports Council. White-water canoeing is popular at some 23.3- Schools and clubs w ill be encouraged to negotiate on sharing of the weirs on the Thames. These weirs facilities and equipment both between are viewed by canoeists as very themselves and with other schools or important training waters, before moving organised groups. onto more advanced white waters elsewhere. There are now several Shepperton in particular. The Lower Thames-based international white-water Thames is also a nationally important canoeists. area for the development and training of racing canoeists. For the numerous The Upper Thames: There are only 5 'casual' canoeists in the Thames valley, river-based canoe chibs, although there the Lower Thames provides a range of are several other non-river chibs which access points with reasonable visitor use the Upper Thames, as well as facilities. The main water sports centre in numerous casual canoeists w ho do not the Lower Thames is Raven's Ait, belong to a club or to the British Canoe Kingston (see Appendix 7). Union (BCU). Canoeing is one of the few boating activities that can take place Ihe Tidal Thames: Canoeing continues in the narrow and shallow river above on the Tideway, which is home to 12 Lechlade. canoe clubs, which is 36% of the total on the river. Most o f these are located The only water sports centre in the upstream o f Putney Bridge. Access is Upper Thames, the Riverside Centre at reasonably good with a few clubs Donnington Bridge (see Appendix 7) sharing facilities with rowing clubs, specialises in canoe training. which is a good use of bankside The Middle Thames-. All 7 of the river resources. based canoe clubs are centred at local towns and villages where there is 10.7.1. Access and Facilities fo r reasonable access. Travelling to other Canoeing parts o f the river is not always easy as Canoeing has a well established novice access points are difficult to find and training scheme which is Liught in many facilities are inadequate, except in the clubs and in water sports centres. It is already busy waters o f places such as through these that many young people Reading and Windsor. are introduced to canoeing. As with many voluntary run activities, canoe Several of the weirs in the Middle clubs often do not promote themselves Thames are very popular throughout the but rely on word o f mouth to generate region for white water canoeing, new members. especially Hambleden and Old Windsor. One of the most frequently cited There are 2 water sports centres in the problems by canoeists is the lack of Middle Thames which offer canoe good access onto the Thames. This is training: The County Centre in particularly true in the rural Upper Pangbourne and The Longridge Scout Thames where bridging points are few Boating Centre (see Appendix 7). and far between. W here access does The Lower Thames: There are 9 canoe exist it is often not w ell known or clubs (27% of the total on the river) base signed. Associated with launch sites is on this stretch o f river. As well as car parking, again a particular problem canoeists in river based clubs, the area is in the Upper Thames. Although there are very popular w'ith other clubs w h o travel more slipways and launching points on to the area. Access is better than further the Lower and Tidal Thames, they are upstream and several of the locks are often not well signed therefore difficult well known for white-water canoeing, to find. Canoeists, particularly those who are Development Officers to encourage touring, require basic facilities such as those interested to take part. portage at locks, toilets, and campsites. FOR: Local Clubs and Local Authorities, Again these facilities are lacking 24.2. As part o f lock site management throughout the Thames, although the plans, facilities for canoeists will problem is more acute in the Upper continue to be reviewed, ie portage, reaches. toilets, campsites, etc. This will be The NRA have recently updated their followed by recommendations for camping information and published a improvements where necessary, and an leaflet, ‘Campsites beside the River agreed timescale for implementation. Th am es’. FOR: NRA (Navigation and Recreation). POLICY 24: CANOEING ON THE THAMES 10.7.2. NRA/BCU Canoe Strategy Access to the Thames fo r casual, competitive and touring canoeing In 1993 the NRA (Thames Region) and should be encouraged in suitable local representatives of the BCU came areas. Unsupervised novices should together to review canoeing on the be discouraged from canoeing in the Thames, focusing in particular on the central tidal Thames in London. weirs and their suitability for white water canoeing. The end result o f this review Recommendations: was a Canoeing Strategy for the Thames, which the NRA and the BCU agreed to 24a. The development o f canoeing on progress. the Thames will be encouraged through the existing club network, At a national level the NRA and the BCU where there is capacity. Local clubs have been discussing the issue o f joint which have the capacity to take on licensing. This would lead to joint NRA new members should be encouraged registration and BCU memlx;rship. The to raise their profile in the issue has yet to be decided as it will community and promote the depend on legislative change. availability o f training courses. New canoe clubs will be encouraged where: - the river is not already heavily used fo r recreation; - there is existing bankside development; - the activity and associated facilities will not damage the natural habitat.

ACTION 24.1. Where there is capacity, canoe clubs and water sports centres will be encouraged to promote their activities locally and work with Sports POLICY 25: POLICY 26: NRA/BCU CANOE STRATEGY WHITE-WATER CANOEING Liaison between the NRA and The design o f weirs and other flood regional representatives o f the BCU defence structures should take the will continue, with both recreational use o f the Thames into organisations committing time and consideration. resources to improving access and Recommendation: safety for canoeists on the Thames. 26a. Discussions between the BCU Recommendations: and river engineers should take place at an early stage of weir 25a. The NRA and regional BCU design to highlight any potential fo r representatives wiU continue to work recreational canoeing, with closely together on the subsequent designs accommodating implementation o f the Canoe Strategy safe canoeing where possible. f o r the Thames.

ACTION ACTION 26.1. When building or repairing weirs 25.1. Work will continue on bringing discussions will be held between the legislative change which may allow a NRA engineers, recreation and navigation joint licence covering NRA registration staff, and the BCU local representatives and BCU membership. to consider the potential of the weir for FOR: NRA HQ and BCU HQ. safe recreational use. FOR: NRA Flood Defence, Navigation 10.7.3. White-Water Canoeing and Recreation, (ancl other functions if The primary function of weirs on the necessary), and BCU Thames is controlling water levels and maintaining the Thames as a public 10.8. SAILING navigation. Over the years the weir pools of some weirs have been used for white Trends water canoeing. Nationally sailing had a rapid grow th in popularity in the 70s and 80s, but the Problems of safety at weirs has always recession slow’ed growth in the late '80s, been an issue, particularly with as reflected in the membership figures inexperienced canoeists who may not for the Royal Yachting Association ancl belong to a club. This issue has become the static membership o f Thames based more acute with the design of some clubs. weirs with 'anti-scour' devices which are dangerous to anyone w ho falls into the National forecasts expect participation in river. sailing to increase over the next 10 years as the econom y recovers from recession, Canoeing is not encouraged close to fish and outdoor sports continue to become passes on weirs as it is believed to more popular. This view is not reflected interfere with the operation o f the pass. by all Thames based clubs. A significant number feel that the demand for sailing on the river is diminishing, with most of 10.8.1. The Decline o f Sailing on the the activity, including novice courses, Thames? taking place on gravel pits and Despite the fact that the demand for reservoirs. sailing on the Thames is decreasing, Sailing on the Thames is like a specialist clubs based on the river are very active. form of the sport. It does not appeal to However, many of these do not promote all sailors but there is, and will continue themselves and new members are to be, a demand for it. relatively few and far between. This can lead to a perception of elitism. If clubs 77?

ACTION 28.1. There is an urgent need for good training facilities for divers in the Thames Valley. Sites have been discussed, and the development of the most appropriate site(s) will be supported. FOR: Sports Council, NRA (Recreation), local clubs and local reps of BSAC and the SAA.

28.2. The special safety needs of divers will be highlighted to other river users through clubs and codes of practice. FOR: Local clubs, Governing Bodies of sport, NRA (Recreation and Navigation). CCPR Water Code. POLICY 29: reviewed and updated and always WATER SPORTS CENTRES ON THE adhered to. THAMES 29e. The water sports centres should Water sports centres are a valuable review the visual impact o f the route to the safe use and enjoyment landscape around their facilities and o f the Thames for sports and where necessary make recreation, and their provision improvements. should be continued. Provision o f additional water sports centres ACTION should be considered: 29.1. Each water sports centre should - in areas close to centres o f review their facilities, services and population and to access routes; marketing, and prepare a development - in areas where there is existing plan which focuses on increasing riverside development; throughput, and generating income, - in stretches o f the river which have possibly through other activities. capacity for increased activity; FOR: Water sports centres, in - where the impact on the conjunction with Local Authorities, Sports environment is minimal and Council and NRA (Recreation). acceptable; 29.2. Where there are gaps in the - within a suitable off-river basin. availability of facilities in which to learn water sports, sites should be identified Recommendations: and funding negotiated. There is scope 29a. The providers and managers o f to operate these as community centres existing centres are asked to review which incorporate facilities for the public current facilities and services, and such as cafe's, toilets, car parking and make improvements where possible, the public use of slipways. especially on aspects o f the centre FOR: Water sports centres, Local which would increase the Authorities (Leisure Depts), NRA throughput and generate income. (Recreation), Sports Council,

29b. Programmes should be 29-3. The planned water sports facility at developed and expanded to include Thames Valley Park in Earley should be activities fo r adults as well as taken forward. children, and increase off-peak use FOR: LAs (Leisure and Planning o f the centres. Depts), Developers, Sports Council, NRA 29c. The water sports centres should (Recreation). be more widely publicised throughout their catchment area, not just to schools but through community centres, libraries, newspapers, and local groups.

29d The water sports centres should operate to high safety standards which are set in writing, constantly 10.11. CYCLING cycling on their land. At present cycling along the Thames is not encouraged, Trends except on designated cycle tracks. As a In recent years there has been a rapid popular and healthy activity there are increase in the popularity of cycling, significant pressures to accommodate primarily mountain biking. As the terrain cycling along the Thames, but cyclists along parts of the Thames is rural and need to be aware of the types of paths relatively rough, it is becoming more they can legally use and the rights of popular as a location for off-road biking. other users. Walkers always have priority over cyclists In tandem with the growth in cycling and as there are areas where the path there has been a significant increase in along the river is narrow, pedestrians can the number of requests for information be intimidated by speeding bikes. about cycling along the Thames Path. There have always been a number of The cyclists appear to be unclear of the cyclists using the Thames Path, although law or how it should be interpreted. as it is a public footpath for most of its length, they generally have no right to POLICY 30: do so without the landowners CYCLING ALONG THE THAMES permission. Normally landowners, do not Cycling w ill only be encouraged on object lo sensible cycling and in the past suitable and legally-defined stretches there have been very few problems along the Thames, where it has been along the Thames. agreed by the landowner, and its effect on the environment and other There are stretches of the Thames Path river users is minimal. which have been proposed as suitable for cycle tracks. Usually these are areas Recom mendation: where the path is wide, with a good surface, eg the more urban stretches of 30a, A review o f paths along the Oxford, Reading, Richmond, Kingston Thames is needed to establish which and in some areas of London. In other areas are suitable fo r cycling, and areas bikes can damage the surface of which areas could be upgraded to the riverside paths, especially when the accommodate cycling. ground is soft, and where there is heavy 30b. Guidance on the Thames should usage. be provided fo r cyclists, informing There is currently a proposal by them o f the law and how to behave SUSTRANS to create a cycle route linking when/if they decide to cycle along the Dartford to Hampton Court along more river. than 40 miles o f riverside paths and parallel roads. ACTION 30.1. Carry out a review of the Thames 10.11.1 Growth o f Cycling Path to establish suitable cycle routes, As cycling has become more and more taking both usage levels and the natural popular there is potential for conflict environment into consideration. with walkers and anglers, and with FOR: LAs, NRA (Recreation), Countryside landowners who may wish to prohibit Commission, Governing Bodies for Cycling, Ramblers Assoc., SUSTRANS, 3. To prom ote safety and goodw ill. landowners. River User Groups meet three times a 30.2. An information leaflet to be year and all the RUG Secretaries and provided on cycling along the Thames. Chairmen have an annual meeting. All FOR: Countryside Commission; NRA clubs, commercial operators, interest (Recreation); Governing Bodies for groups and Local Authorities are invited cycling; Sports Council. to the meetings, but some activities are better represented than others. 10.12. RIVER THAMES INTEREST GROUPS Navigation and Recreation staff from the

There are numerous volunteer groups NRA and PLA are also invited. Although who have the Thames as their focus. run by volunteers, administration costs They include local conservation groups, are paid by the NRA and PLA. historical societies, and educational The River User Group system has am trusts. All of them contribute, in one way effectively over the last 14 years. Many or another, to the character o f the river. potential conflicts have been resolved (See Appendix 6). and lines of communication have been 10.12.1. River User Groups opened. The RUGs have a key role to One of the most significant of these play in implementing this Strategy which groups, in terms of recreation, are the focuses on cooperation and River User Groups (RUGs). These were communication as the way to optimise created following a recommendation in recreation on the Thames. The follow in g the 1980 River Thames Leisure Policy policies, recommendations and actions where it was suggested that the are intended to develop and prom ote the management of recreation on the river RUG system. could be improved if there were user groups to coordinate and communicate POLICY 31: within specific areas. RIVER USER GROUPS Eight groups were created to cover the The system o f River User Groups will non-tidal Thames, with one for the tidal continue to be supported by the NRA Thames to Tower Bridge. Since 1980 and the PLA, and their role as the a some of these have amalgamated and vital communications link between there are now seven User Groups. users and managers will be developed. An additional group operates on the Tideway - the River Users Liaison Group Recommendations: which is run by the PLA, with membership dominated by commercial 31a. RUGs will review their list o f rather than recreational users. contacts on a regular basis to ensure that all river users and relevant The aims o f the River User Groups are: interest groups in the area are 1. To act as a forum of communication invited to meetings. and to promote understanding between 31b. Contact should be established all users. between riparian Local Authorities and RUGs to set up a line o f 2. To safeguard the interests o f all river communication with river users. users. 31c. AU clubs and commercial Secretaries to exchange information. operators should regularly attend FOR: NRA (Recreation), PLA, RUGs. RUG meetings and supply information fo r the annual calendar 10.13. RIVER THAMES RECREATION o f events which the RUGs produce. STRATEGY: Implementation

31d The NRA will send This Recreation Strategy presents a representatives from both Navigation comprehensive range of policies, and Recreation Sections to all RUG recommendations and actions which meetings. They will act as the link could enhance the recreational use of between the various RUGs the Thames. The next and most throughout the river. The PLA will important stage is implementation. send a representative from their An obvious answer is to create a position Harbour service RUG 9. where an individual would be given 31 e. The PLA River Users Liaison responsibility for ensuring that policies Group will encourage more active are adopted and actions carried. In the participation front the recreational case o f this Strategy that is not the users . answer. To make an impact on the Thames and its environment the ACTION philosophy o f this Strategy needs to become part of the everyday thinking 31.1. RUGs will update their User and operations, o f the all those address list on a regular basis , and concerned with using or managing what make efforts to invite those who are is a multi-functional river. Achieving this sceptical about the effectiveness of RUGs will require commitment at a senior to meetings. level, whether it be within a club, a FOR: RUGs and NRA (Recreation). Local Authority or the NRA. 31.2. RUG Secretaries and representatives A major issue is finance - who will pay o f riparian Local Authorities will maintain for implementation of the actions that regular contact. The latter to attend require financial resources? The most meetings when it is appropriate to do so. likely way forward is through partnership FOR: LAs (Leisure Dept), RUGs, NRA schemes between Agencies, Local (Recreation). Authorities and users, with help from 31.3. RUGs to maintain regular contact grants and funds available. Details o f with each other through minutes of sources of funds are included in meetings, calender of events, and Appendix 8. attendance of neighbouring meetings by Monitoring and updating the Strategy will key individuals (Secretary. Chairman). require a commitment of resources by FOR: RUGs. the NRA and the Sports Council. 31.4. NRA and PLA Recreation and Fulfilling recommendations and actions Navigation to attend ail relevant RUG will also require a commitment of time m eetings and act as another and resources by all those involved. communication link in the RUG system. The NRA will continue to organise an annual meeting of RUG Chairmen and POLICY 32: FOR: NRA (Planning Depts) IMPLEMENTATION OP THE RIVER 32.2. Discuss the provision o f a Thames THAMES RECREATION STRATEGY Information Centre, to include Implementation o f the River Thames information and advice for those using the Thames for recreation. This could be Recreation Strategy should be given part of a museum/educational facility. priority by the agencies involved: FOR: NRA (Recreation), Sports Council, * National Rivers Authority LAs. * Sports Council (Southern, South East and Greater London Regions) 32.3. Provide, and update regularly, a database of information on Thames- * Regional Councils for Sport and Recreation based recreation. FOR: NRA (Recreation) and Sports * Riparian Local Authorities Council. * Port of London Authority * Governing Bodies o f Sport and 32.4. Adopt the Recommendations and Clubs Actions within the Strategy as part o f Recommendations: future work programmes. FOR: NRA (Navigation, Recreation, 32a. Riparian Local Authorities Conservation, Fisheries), Sports should use the Recreation Strategy Council and Local Authorities (Leisure as an advisory document when Services). preparing and reviewing their Local Plans and UOPs, and when reviewing 32.5. Review the success of the Strategy planning applications. and its implementation through a joint meeting to be held in 1996. 32b. The NRA will use the strategy FOR: NRA (Recreation), Sports Council when preparing and reviewing and Local Authorities. Catchment Management Plans fo r the Thames.

32c. Departments within the NRA, particularly Recreation and Navigation, Conservation and Fisheries, wiU use the Strategy to guide future work on the River Thames. 32(L Create a database o f Thames information which wiU be updated as part o f the Strategy monitoring system. An individual should be given responsibility fo r carrying out this task.

ACTION 32.1. Incorporate the Strategy as part of the Thames Catchment Management Planning Process.

EFERENCES

1. National Rivers Authority (1993), (1990), National Survey o f NRA Recreation Strategy, Corporate Countryside Recreation. Countryside Planning Department, NRA, Bristol. Commission, Cheltenham.

2. The Sports Council (1992), A 12. Countryside Recreation Network Countryside fo r Sport. (1993), UK Day Visitor Survey. The Sports Council, 16 Upper Countryside Recreation Network, Woburn Place, London. Dept, of City and Regional Planning, University of Wales, Cardiff. 3. Dept, of the Environment (1994), 'This Common Inheritance, IToe 13. Office of Population and Surveys Third Report. HMSO Publications. Social Survey Division (1989), General Household Survey 1989. 4. Dept, of the Environment (1994), HMSO London. Sustainable Development - The UK Strategy. HMSO, London. 14. National Rivers Authority (1994), Socio-economic Review o f Angling 5. Dept, of the Environment & Welsh (National Angling Survey). HMSO, Office (1991), PPG 17 - Planning London. Policy Guidance: Sport and Recreation. HMSO, London. 15. Leisure Consultants (1989), Boating and Water Sports in Britain. Leisure 6. Dept, of the Environment ik Welsh Consultants, Sudbury. Office (1992), PPG 7 - Planning Policy Guidance: Vje Countryside 16. British Marine Industry Federation and the Rural Economy. HMSO, (1990), National Survey o f Boating London. Activities. BMIF, Egham, Surrey.

7. Dept, of the Environment (1994), 17. National Rivers Authority (1992), PPG 9 - Planning Policy Guidance: Water Related Recreation: Nature Conservation, HMSO, Participation, Trends, Issues. NRA, London. Bristol. (Research by Loughborough University). 8. Dept, of the Environment, South East Regional Office (1994), RPG 9 - 18. Countryside Commission (1993), Regional Planning Guidance fo r the 'lhames Path Visitor Survey. South East, HMSO, London. Countryside Commission, Cheltenham. 9. Dept, of the Environment, Government Office for the South 19. National Rivers Authority (1993), West (1994), RPG 10 -Regional Navigation Strategy. Corporate Planning Guidance fo r the South Planning Department, NRA, Bristol. West, HMSO, London. 20. Thames Water Authority (1980), 10. The London Planning & Advisory Report o f the Working Party on River Committee, (1994), Advice on lljames leisure Policy (Boating). Strategic Planning Guidance fo r TWA, Reading. London, LPAC, London. 21. South Oxfordshire District Council 11. The Countryside Commission (1993), Tourist Survey. SODC, Wallingford. 22. Dept, of Transport (1994), River W atford 'Thames Working Group: A Report British Waterways 1993, leisure and into Transport on the River Thames, Tourism Strategy. BW, Watford. DOT, London. Broads Authority, 1993, A7o Easy Answers 23- Kim Wilkie Landscape Design - Draft Broads Plan. Broads Authority, C1994), River Thames Im ndscape Norfolk. Strategy’. London. Clark,N and Stankey,G (1979), The Recreation Opportunity Spectrum: A 24. National Rivers Authority (1995), Framework fo r Planning Management The Impact o f Recreation on and Research. US Dept, of Agriculture Wildlife, NRA, Bristol. Forest Service.

BIBLIOGRAPHY Countryside Commission (1994), Adams, C. (1993): Environmentally Delivering Countryside Information. sensitive predictors o f boat traffic loading C0C0, Cheltenham. on inland waterways. Leisure Studies 12, Countryside Commission (1993). Position 71-79. E&F Spon. Statement: Sustainability and the English Banister,C; Groome,D; and Pawson,G Countryside. C0C0 , Cheltenham. (1992): The Shared Use Debate: a Countryside Commission, English discussion on the jo in t use of canal Heritage, English Nature (1993), toeing paths by walkers, anglers and Conservation Issues in Strategic Plans. cyclists. C0 C0 Cheltenham. Journal of Environmental Management 34, 149-158. A cadem ic Press Ltd. Countryside Recreation Network (1993), Customer Care in the Countryside. British Waterways (BW ) (undated). 7he Workshop proceedings, CRN, University Waterway Environment and Development o f Wales, Cardiff. Plans. BW, Watford. Countryside Recreation Network (1994), British W aterw ays 1991, British Environmental Economics. Sustainable Waterways: A Review o f its Leisure and management and the Countryside. Tourism Competitive Environment. Workshop proceedings, CRN University Unpublished BW report, Watford. o f wales, Cardiff. British W aterw ays 1991, Ihe Ken net & Council for the Protection o f Rural Avon Canal - A Plan fo r the England (1994), Environmental Capacity Environment, Tourism and Leisure. BW, and Sustainable Land Use. CP RE, Shire Watford. Hall, Reading. British W aterw ays 1992, Boating on British Watenvays Canals and Rivet's - Dept, o f the Environment & the Dept, o f Report o f a survey o f owners o f powered Transport (1994), Planning Policy boats. BW. Watford. Guidance: Transport. HMSO London.

British W aterways, 1992, Dept o f National Heritage, (1993). The Cycleway/Shared Use Path Study - Report o f the Water Safety Working Birmingham M ainline Canal. BW, Group. DFK Information Branch. Recreation. Sports Council Southern Region, Reading. The London Rivers Association (1992), Ihe Thames-side Safety Study - A Guide Sports Council (1991), District Sport and to Good Practice. LRA Support Unit, Recreation Strategies - A Guide. Sports Greenwich, London. Council, London.

National Rivers Authority (1991), River Thames Water Authority (1980), Report o f lhames Leisure Study. NRA Thames the Working Party on River 'Thames Region, Reading. leisure Policy (Boating). TWA, Reading.

National Rivers Authority (1992), Thames Water Authority (1988), 'Ihe Conservation and Recreation: Ihe Wye Thames as a Recreational Resource and Challenge. NRA, Monmouth, Gwent. the Role o f the 7'bames Water Authority - Present and Future. TWA, Reading. National Rivers Authority (1993), Conservation Strategy. Corporate Virden,R & Knopf,R (1989), Activities, Planning Dept., Bristol. Experiences and Environmental Settings: A Case St tidy o f Recreation Opportunity National Rivers Authority (1994), Impact Spectrum Relationships. Leisure Sciences, o f Recreation on Wildlife. NRA Vol 11, 159-176. UK. Unpublished, Bristol.

National Rivers Authority (1994), Guidance Notes fo r Local Planning Authorities on the Methods o f Protecting the Water Environment through Development Plans, NRA, Bristol.

National Rivers Authority-Thames Region (1994), Thames 21 - A Planning Perspective and a Sustainable Strategy fo r the lhames Region, NRA, Reading.

Pygott J (1987), The Effects o f Boat Traffic on the Ecology & Fisheries o f Canals. University of Liverpool.

Norfolk Coast Project (1994), A Visitor Management Strategy fo r the Norfolk Coast - Consultation Draft. Norfolk Coast Project, Norwich.

Southern Council for Sport and Recreation (1991). Coastal Recreation Strategy -Strategy fo r Sport 1990-1993- Sports Council Southern region, Reading.

Southern Council for Sport and Recreation (1994), Sporting Futures - Regional Strategy fo r Sport and For further information please contact:

Navigation & Recreation Section, NRA, (Thames Region) Kings Meadow House, King’s Meadow Road, Reading, Berks. RG1 8DQ

Tel: 01734 535000. Fax: 01734 574165

© National Rivers Authority 1995 First Published 1995

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