Environment Agency Water Related Recreation Strategy for the Southern Region

Consultation Draft 1997

ENGLISH SPORTS 1 I r COUNCIL

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Environment Agency Water Related Recreation Strategy for the Southern Region Consultation Draft 1997

ENGLISH SPORTS En v ir o n m e n t A g e n c y ^ I r COUNCIL

Water Related Recreation Strategy

Foreword

This water related recreation strategy for the Environment Agency's Southern Region has been produced in partnership with the English Sports Council, with additional support from the Countryside Commission. The strategy has been developed by the Recreation Project Officer, a post now established within the Environment Agency, supported through a successful collaborative project.

This joint management strategy is one of the first to be produced following the formation of the Environment Agency and the English Sports Council and covers a wide range of recreation issues relating to the water environment for which many organisations and individuals have a commitment and responsibility. Partnership and liaison with other organisations are therefore essential to manage and promote water related recreation. As a consultation document it will be distributed to those organisations in the Region which have an interest in water related recreation, to promote understanding, stimulate discussion, encourage partnerships and identify actions to achieve a lasting difference.

We hope that through improved understanding and coordination by recreation users and providers, the water environment will be safeguarded and managed sustainably to give opportunity for a diverse range of activities which can be enjoyed by present and future generations.

We look forward to and welcome your responses to this Consultation.

DAVID JORDAN MIKE LOCKHART DAVID DOLMAN Regional General Manager Regional Director Regional Director Environment Agency English Sports Council English Sports Council Southern Region South East Region Southern Region Water Related Recreation Strategy

Acknowledgements

The production of a document such as this involves a considerable amount of work and would not have been possible without assistance from a number of people.

Allison Thorpe has been in post as the Recreation Project Officer for almost three years. Allison is presently on maternity leave and I have been responsible for completing this Consultation document based on her initial work.

I would like to thank the representatives from the English Sports Council (South East and Southern Regions), Countryside Commission and the Environment Agency for their support of the Recreation Project Officer post and involvement in guiding the production of this document, in particular Alison Bullar, Lynda McCauley, Graeme Kerr, Jane Cecil and Ian Johnson.

Following a presentation of this document at a Regional Fisheries Advisory Committee, in July, I was delighted that it resulted in such a lively, constructive debate. Thank you to all who attended and for the comments and additional information received.

The Regional survey would not have been possible without the help of clubs and recreation providers and managers. Thank you to all those who filled in questionnaires, we look forward to your further involvement in Consultation of this document.

The Agency Recreation Technical Croup members have been supportive of this post and of the production of this strategy and I am grateful to comments sent and advice given, in particular to Helen Partridge, Craig McGarvey, Hayley Lowes and Don Vickers.

I would also like to thank all Southern Region Agency staff including those in Conservation and Recreation in Kent, Sussex and Hampshire Areas including John Morgan, Rob Pilcher, Sacha Rogers, Jason Chambers, John Cave, Brian Smith, Phil Griffiths, Mark Elliot, Lawrence Talks, Tim Sykes, Tim Holzer and Stuart Taylor and in the Regional Office and in other functions who have provided guidance on particular aspects of the strategy. Thanks lastly but not least to Camille Braiden for all her support in producing the strategy, particularly with technical work in producing maps for the document.

ANDREA BUCKLEY Regional Recreation Officer Water Related Recreation Strategy

Contents

Foreword iii Acknowledgements iv Executive Summary 1 1. Introduction 1.1 Need for management, provision and promotion of recreation 6 1.2 Scope of strategy 6 1.3 Future Vision 6 1.4 Aims & Objectives 8 1.5 Strategy development and consultation 8

2 Water Recreation management 2.1 Key players in countryside and water related recreation 10 2.2 Environment Agency 10 2.3 English Sports Council 11 2.4 Countryside Commission 12 2.5 Links with Local plans and other initiatives and strategies 12 2.6 Funding and resource opportunities ‘ 12 2.7 Priorities 13

3. The Resource, its present use 3.1 The Natural Resource 15 3.2 The Human Resource 16

A. Recreation overview 4.1 Informal recreation overview 17 4.2 Water sports overview 17

5. Discussion of General Issues, principles and recommendations 5.1 Sustainability 19 5.2 Balance between conservation and recreation 20 5.3 Water quality 22 5.4 Water Safety 26 5.5 Access and facilities for recreation 27 5.6 Information and education 31 5.7 Water recreation management 34 5.8 Agency sites 36 5.9 Agency activities 38 5.10 Countryside Projects 40 5.11 Estuary and Harbour Management Plans 40 5.12 Canal management and restoration * 40 Water Related Recreation Strategy

6. Recreation activities - discussion 6.1 Walking 43 6.2 Angling 43 6.3 Cycling 46 6.4 Horse riding 47 6.5 Bathing 48 6.6 Canoeing 48 6.7 Inland Navigation 50 6.8 Sailing 52 6.9 Windsurfing 52 6.10 Surfing 53 6.11 Personal Watercraft 53 6.12 Rowing 54 6.13 Water skiing 54 6.14 Sub Aqua 55 6.15 Additional activities 57 6.16 Wildfowling 57 6.17 Water sports activity centres 57

The way forward - implementation of the strategy 58

Glossary 59

References 60

Bibliography 62

List of Figures Figure 1 Southern Region 7 Figure 2 Representation of a number of significant urban areas in Southern Region 14 Figure 3 Bathing beaches in Southern Region ' 24

9. Appendices Appendix 1 Environment Agency Questionnaire 63 Appendix 2 Recreation duties 67 Appendix 3 Coarse Fishing locations - Hampshire 68 Appendix 4 Coarse Fishing Sites - Sussex 69 Appendix 5 Coarse Fishing Sites - Kent 70 Appendix 6 Came Fishing Sites - Hampshire 71 Appendix 7 Came Fishing Sites - Sussex 72 Appendix 8 Came Fishing Sites - Kent 73 Appendix 9 Canoeing locations - Hampshire 74 Appendix 10 Canoeing locations - Sussex 75 Appendix 11 Canoeing locations - Kent 76 Appendix 12 Power boating sites in Southern Region 77 Appendix 13 Dinghy, sailing and yachting locations - Hampshire 78 Appendix 14 Dinghy, sailing and yachting locations - Sussex 79 Appendix 15 Dinghy, sailing and yachting locations - Kent 80 Appendix 16 Windsurfing Sites -Hampshire 81 Appendix 17 Windsurfing Sites - Sussex 82 Appendix 18 Windsurfing Sites - Kent 83 Appendix 19 Water skiing sites in Southern Region 84 Appendix 20 Sub Aqua sites in Southern Region 85 Appendix 21 Activity Centres in Southern Region 86 Executive Summary

This Recreation Strategy for the Southern Projects, commercial operators and the purposes to the extent that it Region is the main result of a collabora­ many voluntary sector organisations deems desirable tive project between the Environment such as the Wildlife Trusts and • to take account of recreation in Agency and the English Sports Council, angling societies. carrying out all of the Agency's with additional support from the functions. Countryside Commission. Purpose of document • to ensure that land or water in the The Strategy focuses on those recreation This Recreation Strategy for the Region Agency's control is made available activities which are related to the water is the result of a collaborative project where appropriate for recreational environment and are related to the work between the Agency and the English purposes. of the Environment Agency, hereafter Sports Council, with additipnal support referred to as the Agency. from the Countryside Commission. The Strategy focuses on those Geographical area The main purpose of the document recreation activities which are The geographical area covered by this is to promote good practice in the related to the water environment strategy is the Agency's Southern Region. planning and management of water and the work of the Agency. It principally comprises the four counties related recreation and to promote of Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, East and provision for recreation as an integral The main purpose of the document West Sussex and Kent. part of the Agency. To work towards is to promote good practice in the the Agency vision "A better environment planning and management of water The total area of the Region covers in England and Wales for present and related recreation and to promote 10,979 kmJ including an extensive future generations." provision for recreation as an integral coastline of more than 1100 km. part of the Agency functions to achieve There are 13 major river catchments the National Agency vision "A better in the Region covering more than Who is involved? environment in England and Wales for 2500 km of river. Almost everyone is involved in water present and future generations." related recreation to some extent whether it simply involves the The document is a non-statutory enjoyment of the environment document, intended to act as a or taking a more active role in framework for recreation planning a formal sporting activity. and management.

There are many organisations involved in the provision of recreation in the Environment Agency recreation Region, each playing an important duties and differing role in delivering services, A summary of the Agency's statutory facilities, and management of recreation. duties for Recreation as set out in the These include statutory bodies such as Environment Act, 1995 are given below: local authorities, non governmental organisations including the Sussex • A general duty to promote the use Downs Conservation Board, Countryside of inland and coastal waters and land associated with them for recreational

1 Water Related Recreation Strategy

Recreation Survey has been defined in Our Common Future, Over 600 sports and recreation groups the Brundtland Report, 1987 as, Suggested recommendations have been surveyed by use of a designed • Research into the environmental "Development that meets the needs of questionnaire as well as those involved impacts of relevant forms of the present, without compromising the in provision of recreation, such as local recreation will be promoted to ability of future generations to meet authorities and water sports centres. gain a better understanding. their own needs" This has established a picture of • Best practice management recreational activity in the Region, techniques will be developed for gaps in provision, and the main PRINCIPLES sites. issues of concern to participants. 1. The management of water related recreation should be sensitive to • Recreation governing bodies and Issues, recommendations and the needs of local communities clubs should promote good Codes principles and the character of rural and of conduct to improve Discussion of issues has resulted in tranquil areas. environmental awareness for the production of principles and recreation users. recommendations for actions. A number 2. The promotion and management of issues are common to all activities, of recreation should be balanced • All recreation facility proposals these include sustainability, balance with other interests such as the should be encouraged to have an between conservation and recreation, nature conservation value of sites. environmental assessment and water quality and water safety, access, post project appraisal. information and education, and Agency 3. Recreational sites near water and • Facilities at existing sites will be sites and activities. These are summarised access to water should be encouraged where there is a water below: In addition issues relevant to protected from detrimental related interest will be supported, particular recreation activities have impacts of development. Water where deemed appropriate. been discussed and principles and related recreational sites adjacent recommendations set out. to or linking urban areas should be protected as an important PRINCIPLES resource. 1. Sustainability 1. A balanced approach will be taken Sustainability is integral to environmental in promoting recreation activities management and planning. It is an 2. Balance between considering environmental, social underlying theme to this document conservation and recreation and economic factors. and will guide principles and Management for recreation must address 2. Examples of good management recommendations for recreation. the issue of the balance of interests practice in balancing the needs of The term 'Sustainable development between recreational activities, the need wildlife and nature conservation to protect the nature conservation with recreation interests should be interests of the environment and promoted and recreational landscape features. participants and site visitors should be made aware of nature conservation interests through Issues education and interpretation. • Disturbance of wildlife and nature conservation by recreation activities 3. Water quality • Impacts of recreation on local landscapes Many water related recreational activities involve contact with and sometimes Water Related Recreation Strategy

immersion in water including inland water bodies, rivers and coastal waters. PRINCIPLES Promote good codes of practice Knowledge regarding water quality of 1. The Agency, under its statutory regarding water safety through waters used for recreation is vital to allow remit, will continue to work with clubs and governing bodies. participants to make their own decisions relevant organisations including Seek additional ways to as to safety of use of the water. the water companies and industry disseminate information to casual to maintain, and where possible Issues participants bring about improvements, in the • Risk from waterborne infection quality of water in still waters, • Availability of water quality rivers, estuaries and around the PRINCIPLE information to participants coast. All users will be encouraged to act in • Pollution of water a safe and responsible manner when 2. Responsible agencies, including on or near to water. All recreation • Water quality problems from litter, local authorities and the Agency, users should be aware of safety personal items and fly tipping should work together to promote regulations, local byelaws and Codes • Clarity of beach award information the distribution of water quality of practice produced by the information to recreational users Governing bodies of sport. Suggested Recommendations and the public, where water • Codes of Conducts for recreation quality is relevant to the activity. users should cover protection of 5. Access and facilities the environment to reduce litter. 4. Water Safety for recreation • Clubs and organisations should be Water safety for recreation participants The Agency has a general duty "to encouraged to under take action includes a number of factors such as promote the use of inland and coastal to remove litter from recreation hazardous plants including giant waters and land associated with them for locations. hogweed, multi-use of sites and the recreational purposes to the extent that it deems desirable." Access is generally • That the responsible bodies work potential for occurrence of accidents together to review and improve and litter in riverine and coastal areas. needed to make use of water and systems to make information associated land for recreational activities. regarding water quality more The Agency encourages opportunities for Issues recreation provision such as those made easily available to recreation • Risks from hazardous plants through voluntary access agreements participants where water quality eg Giant hogweed with landowners. data is relevant to the activity. • Risks from drowning • Promote and encourage recreation participants to notify Issues the Agency of any pollution Suggested Recommendations • Inappropriate use of rights of way by incidents. • Support initiatives aiming to non permitted users improve safety for recreation • Access for disabled recreation • To collect detailed information of users. participants sites used by recreation users. • Ensure that all special events have • Provision of facilities • To Provide clarity on awards for written consent as required in line • Transport to recreation sites beach sites, including Blue flag with local byelaws and Local authority awards, by responsible bodies. • Raise awareness of water safety issues by responsible bodies

3 Water Related Recreation Strategy

6. Information and education Suggested Recommendations: 4. Use should be made where • Further opportunities for possible of existing customer Information about recreation recreation activities should be research data and further opportunities is a key factor in pursued as part of voluntary recreation studies should be determining where people go to take agreements with landowners in promoted. part in sport and recreation and the initiatives such as Countryside nature of the activities they participate 5. The provision of facilities such as Stewardship, Access 2000 and in. Information can be used as a fishing pegs for angling and visitor Environmentally Sensitive Areas management tool to both promote moorings are supported in (ESA) where appropriate. and control activity. principle. These should be • Review recreation provision within constructed in appropriate areas the Region to identify quiet areas following a strategic approach. Issues and areas where further provision Where Agency consent is required • Education initiatives to include of recreational activity is desirable consideration will be made on a recreation and possible. site by site basis and provision • Interpretation at sites may not be appropriate

everywhere. • Communication between managers PRINCIPLES and providers of recreation and clubs. 6. Increased opportunities for 1. Visitor facilities should be informal and formal recreational • Research and development promoted as ^hey are an integral activities should be promoted part of many recreation activities. where desirable by organisations • Availability of information regarding Facilities should be located such as the Agency, local recreation opportunities appropriately and, where possible, authorities and other relevant should be encouraged in areas organisations working together where there is existing with landowners. Suggested Recommendations: development, in keeping with • A list of available leaflets produced landscape features and away from 7. Provision of disabled access will by Countryside River Projects, sensitive nature conservation sites. be made, where appropriate, supported by the Agency and in consultation with relevant other organisations, should be 2. The significance of slipways and representatives for disabled produced launch sites as key recreational people. Suitability of areas for facilities should be recognised. access will be assessed on a site • Investigate further opportunities Existing access facilities should by site basis and will not be for dissemination of information, be protected and appropriate promoted where safety of including investigation of further provision of new facilities users will be compromised. use of the Agency's Recreation encouraged. database. 8. The Agency will encourage the 3. In the location of new recreational creation of more access • Provide recreation input into facilities, consideration should be opportunities for waterside and education and assessment of the given to schemes which are water based recreation. The requirements of target audiences. accessible by modes of transport Agency endorses and encourages • Need to provide education other than personal car such as the use of voluntary access materials on integrated water cycling, walking and public agreements as an effective means and environmental management transport, including bus, rail and of achieving the shared use linked with Agency functions to ferry. of waters.

4 Water Related Recreation Strategy

The Way forward compliment specialist education 7 Water Recreation The document will be distributed provided by other organisations. management widely to promote understanding of Protecting the environment, making best • Continue to carry out educative our own position regarding water use of the available resource and and informative activities such as related recreation and to stimulate resolving conflicts between different Green Link, across the Region. discussion amongst other organisations interests are all dependent on successful in the Region. An Action Plan, will be • The Agency will encourage management. produced to take forward recommended closer working relationships with actions and principles and to combine organisations concerned to meet, Issues views and comments from the discuss and understand each • Promotion of multi-use of sites consultation process. others requirements, issues and by recreation groups. concerns and to help achieve

consensus on the way forward. • Conflicts between user groups Action Plan document Improved relationships will A second document, the Action Plan, increase co-ordination and will be produced to take forward Suggested Recommendations: help identify opportunities recommended actions and principles • The Agency will contribute to the on which to collaborate. and to combine views and comments mediation of conflicts between from the consultation process. relevant users of the water PRINCIPLES environment.

1. Relevant organisations should seek Implementation of the Strategy • Employ access controls and to raise awareness and keep The Action Plan document will become zoning to maximise the recreation participants better an influential document for input into enjoyment of the water informed. and review of Local Environment Agency environment, as appropriate. Plans (LEAPS) and used to guide day to 2. Relevant organisations should day recreation activities of the Agency adopt a coordinated approach to and other organisations involved in the the provision of information. PRINCIPLE provision and management of water Appropriate management techniques 3. The Agency and other related recreation. should be employed, involving both organisations will aim to provide a users and managers, to mitigate the greater understanding of effects of recreational pressure and recreation as an integral part of enhance recreation experiences. environmental education and environmental issues by, working in partnership with other relevant organisations.

4. Education material for young people will be linked to the National Curriculum. 1. Introduction

1.1 Need for management, 1.2 Scope o f the strategy provision and promotion actions may be the responsibility of recreation This consultation document addresses of other partners. those activities which relate to the Inland and coastal waters have been It is essential that best use is made Agency's Statutory duties to used historically for a variety of leisure of the available resources to achieve recreation as set out in Section 2.2. activities such as angling, sailing and sustainable recreation in the Region. These include recreation activities canoeing. In addition to these The Region is split into three Areas, as taking place on Agency owned sites recreational pursuits the attraction of illustrated by Figure 1, namely Kent and those which relate to the the water environment is an important Area, Sussex Area and Hampshire/Isle Agency's duty to take account of element for informal interests including of Wight Area. Each Area is likely to recreation in all of the Agency's day trips to popular sites, country parks have different priorities for recreation functions, which are mainly related to and nature reserves. provision and management and the water environment. This strategy through the consultation it is Over recent years the range of considers those major recreation intended to identify these priorities recreational activities and leisure time activities which are either water in development of the Action Plan available have both increased, offering dependent or are frequently drawn which will be produced as a partner greater opportunities and new to the water's edge and are related document following the consultation. challenges in areas such as windsurfing to or may affect the other duties of and use of personal watercraft. This has the Agency. Activities not included led to an increase in the participation in are not considered to be significantly recreation activities and indicates a need relevant to the activities of the Agency. for management by all organisations The balance between conservation involved to protect the environment and recreation is discussed in Section and to ensure a pleasurable 5.2. Sustainability will be considered recreational experience. further in the implementation of this The water environment supports a wide strategy through Local Environment range of plants and animals which are Agency Plans (LEAPs) and similar important in their own right and integral plans and strategies. to the enjoyment of both coastal and 1.3 Future Vision This consultation covers a wide range inland water areas. In promoting and The National Environment Agency of issues, recommendations and managing recreation activities the need vision is: principles relating to the water to protect and enhance the natural environment. The Agency's duties are environment is of particular importance. 'A better environment in England set out in Appendix 2, and it should and Wales for present and be noted that responsibility for all future generations' actions does not lie only with the Agency. Many actions outlined will Achievement of this vision for recreation need to involve collaboration with a in Southern Region will be guided by number of organisations and some the implementation of this strategy.

6 iue Evrnet gny oten Region Southern Agency 1 Environment Figure

HAMPSHIRE & ISLE OF WIGHT AREA

Legend: COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Crown copyright reserved Main River A Regional Office O Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1: 947600 f Produced By: FRCN Region O Area Offices metres : metres north E n v ir o n m e n t A g e n c y Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 04/07/1997 Water Related Recreation Strategy

1.4 Aims and Objectives as local authorities and water sports Aims centres. The questionnaire is presented The aims of the strategy are: The purpose of the strategy is to in Appendix 1. The information collected promote good practice in the planning on recreational sites, facilities and 1. To provide guidance to all those and management of sport and recreation activities now forms part of a computer involved in planning, managing in the Region. It is a framework database held by the Agency and used and providing for water related document based on National Agency in the development of this consultation recreation across the Agency's policy developed to guide the future document. This has given an indication Southern Region. recreation work of both the Agency of the main resources for water related and others in the Region and to 2. To promote provision for water recreation in our Region, key issues, gaps generate discussion of issues, related recreation by all in recreation provision and opportunities partnerships and actions between organisations working in and for improving that provision and all relevant organisations, to achieve around the water environment. improving practice in the management a lasting difference. 3. To encourage and facilitate of our resources. effective joint working and We are aware that not all clubs and partnership between such groups involved in the provision and organisations. management of recreation will have

4. To promote provision for been contacted as part of the survey recreation as an integral part and apologise to those we have not of Agency functions by all been able to contact. Any completed Agency Staff. questionnaires or additional information from clubs would be welcomed. 5. To present an overview of water related recreation in Southern From the issues identified during the Region on rivers, canals, enclosed This strategy is intended as a working, preparation of this strategy a series of waters, estuarine and coastal 'living' document and will be updated general principles have been drawn waters. as required to reflect changing needs together. The principles are intended and opportunities. to reflect the objectives of the Agency's national strategies and other relevant Objectives 1.5 Strategy development strategic guidance for the area. They 1. To identify some of the main and Consultation have been prepared jointly with the issues, constraints and pressures Recreation Steering Croup which associated with water related 1.5.1 Methodology includes representatives of the Agency, recreation in the Region. In developing this strategy, the the Countryside Commission and the 2. To set out a number of best Agency has consulted a wide range of English Sports Council. Most importantly, practice principles to support organisations and has been guided by these principles are based on the findings and guide the planning and their many strategies and development of the survey of many recreation clubs, management of recreation plans. Recent trends and statistics user groups and commercial providers on and around water. have been examined for water related across the Region. Agency Conservation recreation and visits have been made to and Recreation staff have been consulted 3. To propose a series of a number of the most popular sites in in addition to informal consultation with recommendations to assist use for recreation around the Region. various governing bodies and reference in the future promotion and to documents relating to a number of management of water related Questionnaires have been sent to over aspects of water related recreation in recreation. 600 sports and recreation groups, those the Region. involved in provision of recreation, such

8 Water Related Recreation Strategy

1.5.2 Results 1.5.4 Managing the Consultation • Are there any additional A distribution list for questionnaires opportunities for recreation in the was compiled from existing databases Effective communication and Region, which have not already and consultation with organisations consultation is the key to the success been identified? including local authorities and governing of any strategy. This document will bodies. This list included clubs and water be distributed widely to promote • Are there any additional issues sports centres. understanding of our own position which have not been identified regarding water related recreation and and addressed in this document? The survey response rate was to stimulate discussion amongst other • Can you provide further encouraging with 63% of questionnaires organisations in the Region. With the information to add to maps of having been returned. A series of maps support of our partners the English principle locations for recreation have been produced to illustrate the Sports Council and the Countryside in the Region? distribution of principle locations for Commission, it is our intention to a number of recreation activities, manage the consultation process • Who are the main partners for to highlight provision in recreation. in the following way: each of the recommendations? These are presented in the appendices and referred to in the text. • Full Consultation Drafts to all • Which should be the main major recreation organisations priorities for recreation provision Whilst the information gained does not in the Region and issues to be resolved in give a complete picture of recreation Southern Region? provision in the Region the information • Executive Summary to all clubs, provides a focus for consultation and for user groups, commercial providers • How to turn the addition to existing knowledge. Through recommendations into actions • A series of Water Related Recreation the survey some information regarding Workshops to be held across the • Identification of opportunities activities which do not occur as part of Region, open to representatives of for funding. a club such as those involving quiet the organisations mentioned above. enjoyment of the environment has This is your opportunity to comment been gained but this requires further 1.5.5 Consultation and influence the Agency's Regional development through consultation. requirements Recreation Strategy. We welcome your views on this document and invite you Through the process of consultation 1.5.3 Consultation to participate in the forthcoming we are looking for your guidance, to This Consultation document sets out consultation process. The importance address a number of key issues, in principles and recommended actions of building partnerships and working particular the following: based on the research and consultation with others in implementing the initially carried out. recommendations in the strategy is recognised and we hope that this A second document, the Action Plan, document and the subsequent will be produced to take forward consultation period will lead to recommended actions and principles action at a local level. and to combine views and comments from the consultation process. Responsible partners for all issues and recommendations still need to be identified.

9 2. Water Recreation Management

2.1 Key Players in English Sports Council and in liaison commercial premises and many smaller Countryside and Water with the Countryside Commission. This industries; litter; environmental health Related Recreation Regional strategy aims to reflect activities issues; and land use planning are the on a national level, remaining a flexible direct responsibility of the local There are many organisations involved in document which will be updated and authorities. the provision of recreation in the Region, revised as progress is made and as each playing an important and differing changing pressures emerge. 2.2.1 Fisheries Ecology role in delivering services, facilities, and and Recreation management or planning for the future of recreation. These include statutory 2.2 Environment Agency Specific statutory recreation duties are bodies such as local authorities; The Agency was formed in April 1996. As summarised below and set out in detail responsible for maintaining sites, a powerful environmental regulator the in Appendix 2. providing visitor and outdoor centres Agency has many responsibilities to help and ranger services; non governmental protect land, air and water. The Agency's Summary of Agency Duties organisations: for example, the Sussex operational activities include 'Pollution to Recreation Downs Conservation Board, Countryside Prevention and Control' and 'Water • A general duty to promote the use Projects; commercial operators and the Management'. Pollution Prevention and of inland and coastal waters and many voluntary sector organisations Control (PPC) includes the regulation land associated with them for such as the Wildlife Trusts and angling of the disposal of controlled waste, recreational purposes to the societies. Together these organisations protecting and improving the quality of extent that it deems desirable. make up the key players in countryside rivers estuaries and coastal waters and • to take account of recreation in and water recreation in Southern Region. regulating major industrial processes, carrying out all of the Agency's Due to the large number of organisations nuclear sites and premises authorised to functions. involved a coordinated approach to dispose of radioactive waste; and 'Water management is required. Management' includes responsibilities for • to ensure that land or water in the water resources, flood defence, fisheries, Nationally, the Agency, the English Agency's control is made available ecology and recreation. Sports Council and the Countryside where appropriate for recreational purposes. Commission are working together to The Agency does not have exclusive define respective roles with regard to responsibility for all aspects of recreation. A memorandum of environmental regulation and The Agency is guided in its recreation understanding (Moll)' is presently being management and needs to work with work by the 'Code of Practice for produced between these organisations various other bodies on aspects of Conservation, Access and Recreation' issued in 1989 by the Department of to develop and promote sport and environmental protection. For example, recreation between people and the air pollution arising from household and the Environment2. countryside. Responsibility for recreation lies with the

As part of the Agency's recreation work Fisheries, Recreation, Conservation and „ and to help fulfill its recreational duties, Navigation (FRCN) department. This this Recreation Strategy has been department is to change to Fisheries, developed with the support of the Ecology and Recreation (FER) in each

10 Water Related Recreation Strategy

Area, in late 1997. In Southern Region, 2.2.2 Navigation 2.3 English Sports Council day to day recreation work is carried out In Southern Region, the Agency is the The English Sports Council is responsible from the three Area offices: Kent, Sussex navigation authority for the Medway for leading the development of sport in and Hampshire, by the FRCN Managers Navigation and is the harbour authority England. This is achieved by influencing and Area Conservation and Recreation for the Harbour of Rye. Both the Medway and serving the public, voluntary and Officers. Their work is supported by and the Harbour of Rye are used commercial sectors. The main aim of the Regional Recreation Officer who extensively for water sports and informal the English Sports Council can be undertakes a policy and strategic role as recreation and are seen as significant summarised as: more people involved well as professional support to particular recreational resources in the Region. in sport, more places to play sport and Area projects. The Agency's Regional Inland navigation is covered in further higher standards of sporting performance Fisheries Advisory Committee provide detail in Section 6.7, and the Harbour leading to more medals. advice and guidance to the function of Rye covered in more detail in with local advice provided by the In pursuing these interests the English Section 5.8. three Area Environmental Groups. Sports Council seeks to maintain and develop sporting opportunity in the Conservation and Recreation Officers countryside, on rivers and around the are involved in screening a range of coast. Twenty three priority sports plans and strategies including local have been identified by the English development plans, individual planning Sports Council. Six of these relate to applications, internal Agency consents countryside and water recreation and and authorisations such as Land are particularly relevant to this strategy, drainage consents and Water Resources namely: cycling, canoeing, orienteering, applications. The Agency also carries out rowing, sailing and triathlon. promotional recreational work. This work Development Officers for cycling, and involves projects in collaboration with rowing have recently been appointed external partners, ranging from physical for the Region with further officers enhancements, such as the construction for canoeing and sailing intended. of footpaths and landing stages, to 2.2.3 Fisheries longer term initiatives such as river based The English Sports Council is involved The Agency has a general duty to countryside management projects. in developing good practice and maintain, improve and develop salmon, has produced reports such as "Good The Agency currently supports a number trout, freshwater fish and eel fisheries practice in the planning and management of collaborative countryside project under its jurisdiction, under the Water of sport and active recreation in the initiatives. These projects are involved Resources Act, 1991, and to regulate countryside//J in partnership with the with management of the water environ­ and protect fisheries as defined in the Countryside Commission. In addition the ment at a local level, working with local Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act English Sports Council has a significant communities and have a remit for both 1975 and the Salmon Act 1986. involvement in a number of Estuary conservation and recreation. A wide The Agency's responsibilities to Management Plans around the Region range of enhancement schemes are freshwater fisheries are supported including the Medway Estuary and Swale carried out through these projects. through the requirement for all Management Plan* in North Kent and These are covered further in anglers aged 12 years or over, who Thames Estuary Management Plan. Section 5.10. fish for salmon, trout, freshwater fish The Fisheries, Conservation and or eels in England and Wales, to hold Navigation duties are closely linked an Agency rod licence. This income with those of recreation. funds much of the Agency's work to achieve the above remit.

11 Water Related Recreation Strategy

2.4 Countryside 2.5.1 Local Environment prepared by the Agency and/or Coastal Commission Agency Plans (LEAPs) Authority following guidance produced by MAFF5. EMPs are integrated plans The Countryside Commission aims to The definition of a LEAP is produced for the sustainable use of protect the English Countryside and as given below: estuaries by consensus. EMPs are to be ensure it can be used and enjoyed now A Local Environment Agency implemented by all estuary users and and in the future. The Countryside Plan (known as a 'LEAP') is the regulatory authorities, for example, Commission is concentrating on Agency's integrated local catchment Medway Estuary and Swale and the pioneering ways of managing the management plan for identifying and Solent Forum in Southern Region. countryside, advising on policy, assessing, prioritising and solving local translating policy into practice and environmental issues directly related Other important strategic documents encouraging other organisations to to the Agency's Pollution Prevention include the English Sports Council's use successful ideas. This is carried out and Control (PPC) and Water Regional Recreation Strategy for the through research and development, Management functions, taking South East, published in 1994 and the giving policy advice, providing into account costs and benefits various strategies for individual sports. information, supporting training and the views of the Agency's Also the ten year strategy produced and offering grant aid to others in the local customers.' by the Countryside Commission, public, private and voluntary sector. 'A Living Countryside'6. 2.5.2 Statutory Planning Framework 2.6 Funding and Resource The statutory planning framework opportunities which guides and controls land use 2.6.1 Staff and development includes Local Plans, Mineral and Waste Plans. The Agency The Agency's National Recreation is a statutory consultee for these plans. Strategy aims to have at least one full­ Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) notes time dedicated Agency Recreation post set out the Government's policies on in place in each Region. This has already different aspects of planning. Local been achieved in Southern Region planning authorities must take their through the existing Regional contents into account in preparing their Recreation Officer. development plans. A number of the Additional dedicated recreation staff 2.5 Links with local plans PPG guidance documents cover aspects are required. The present best practice and other initiatives and of sustainable recreation and the situation is thought to be a team of full­ strategies countryside eg PPG 7, Countryside, time Recreation staff based at Region, PPG 9 Nature Conservation and Provision for recreation planning is made with support given to National initiatives PPG 1 7 Sport and Recreation, by a number of different organisations and the undertaking of Area work. This (which is currently under review). through both statutory and non- system is presently operated in Thames statutory plans. This document has been developed to provide strategic guidance 2.5.3 Non-statutory Planning for input to these plans and initiatives to Initiatives ensure that water recreation interests are A number of initiatives have been set covered and opportunities identified at up to address issues on the coast and the local level. estuaries, these include Shoreline Management Plans (SMP) and Estuary Management Plans (EMP). SMPs are

12 Water Related Recreation Strategy

Region. Flexibility is provided with effort 2.7 Priorities being directed at Areas with greatest Understanding and taking account need and allows for changing priorities. Recommendation of supply and demand for recreation is • To identify priority areas of to be a priority of the Agency Recreation recreation work in each Agency 2.6.2 Funding department. The Agency will take Area, within Southern Region, A number of different funding a proactive approach to identifying through this Consultation opportunities are available for projects the need for recreation facilities and document to make best use and vary in suitability according to the provision to improve understanding. of available resources. scale and nature of the projects This has in part already been achieved proposed. A major recent funding through the Regional Survey to assess opportunity relevant to recreation recreation provision in the Region and activities and facilities is the National interpretation and policy proposed Lottery. In addition the Landfill tax offers through production of this consultation additional funding for charitable trusts. draft. This will be in addition to Other opportunities are available from promotion, planning and provision European funding and other grants such of information and advice already as BT Countryside for All grants. carried out by the Agency.

13 iue Rpeetto o a ubr f infcn ubn ra i Suhr Region Southern in areas urban significant of number a of Representation 2Figure

Legend: COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Crown copyright reserved. Urban Areas □ Area Boundaries © Environment Agency 1997

r - i Produced By: FRCN I I Southern Region L - J Catchment Boundaries Drawing By: C. Braiden SCALE 1:1010100 f Print Date: 26/06/1997 Town Centre metres : metres north 3. The Resource — its present use

3.1 The Natural Resource the landscape, wildlife or historic interest The Region has a number of key national is of national importance. The scheme sites for recreation including the Solent The geographical area covered by this supports the use of traditional farming (which has 30,000 recreational craft strategy is the Agency's Southern Region, practices to enhance the environment. present annually,3’) Chichester Harbour, as shown in Figure 1. It principally ESA areas in Southern Region include Hayling Island, Medway Estuary and- comprises the counties of Hampshire/Isle the Test Valley, North Kent Marshes Swale and a number of the key English of Wight, East and West Sussex and Kent. and The South Downs. Channel ports such as Portsmouth Parts of Surrey and Greater London Harbour used for recreational access. are also included in the Region, as A number of areas are designated for boundaries are set according to their conservation interest in Southern The New Forest in Hampshire currently river catchments. Region. These areas include Sites of attracts seven million day visitors per Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) of annum (visitors from outside the which there are 378 with 271 of these Heritage Area) in addition to 17 million being water dependent. In addition local visitors per annum. Sixty five per there are a number of sites under cent of visitors to the New Forest come European designations including Ramsar from Southern England. (Forestry sites, Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and Commission, pers comm.) Special Areas of Conservation (SACs). Other areas are designated for national conservation interests including National Nature Reserves (NNRs) and for local interests including Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) and Sites of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCIs). The topography of the Region is dominated by the North and South The total area of the Region covers Downs together with the Weald in 10,979 km* including an extensive the South East and the Hampshire coastline of more than 1100 km. There Basin in the West. English Nature and are 13 major river catchments in the the Countryside Commission, with help Region covering more than 2500 km of from English Heritage have produced river. Significant enclosed waters include a map, "The Character Map of England; the principal water company owned landscape, wildlife and natural features"7 reservoirs of which Bewl Water is the which identifies areas by their ecology largest and perhaps most widely used for and landscape. These include areas such water related recreation. Other enclosed as Romney Marshes, Pevensey Levels and waters in the Region include former the New Forest in Southern Region. mineral working sites, a vast range of small lakes and ponds, in addition to The Environmentally Sensitive Areas a number of canals which provide a (ESA) scheme, initiated by MAFF, aims to valuable resource for nature conservation safeguard areas of the countryside where and some forms of recreation.

15 Water Related Recreation Strategy

Landscape communities who live and work with that in other parts of the UK. In addition, Much of the Region is valued for its them. AONBs are designated by the the Region receives an annual influx of high landscape and nature conservation Countryside Commission. holiday makers each year as well as interest and many areas are designated significant weekend and day trip visitors Heritage Coasts are non-statutory sites for their special interest. There are nine seeking recreation activity. The close defined by the Countryside Commission designated Areas of Outstanding Natural proximity of Southern Region to Europe in consultation with Local Authorities. Beauty, (AONB) within the Region: the means that it receives a number of Five areas are designated Heritage Coasts Isle of Wight, East Hampshire, South visitors from overseas, at coastal towns including Dover to Folkestone and South Hampshire Coast, the Sussex Downs, including Dover and Ramsgate. The Foreland in Kent, Sussex, Hamstead and Isle of Wight, Kent Downs, Chichester resident population of the Region is Tennyson in Hampshire/Isle of Wight. Harbour, Surrey Hills and the High estimated at 4.6 million in 1991 with Weald. These areas by their distinctive 10.5 million holiday trips made to the character and outstanding natural beauty 3.2 The Human Resource Region8. A representation of a number are of national importance representing of significant urban areas is given in The population density in many parts of the finest landscapes in the country. Figure 2. the Region is significantly greater than They are living landscapes containing 4. Recreation Overview

4.1 Informal recreation The Agency also plays a role in providing sports with another 3.6 million interested overview for informal recreation on land in its in participating. Available statistics ownership. There are a number of indicate that water, including rivers Water is a known attraction for a reserves in the Region including Wildlife and canals, lakes and reservoirs, coastal range of activities which are based on Trust reserves and those of the Royal and estuarine sites, plays a significant enjoyment of the countryside. Activities Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). part in the provision of outdoor such as walking, bird watching, cycling, recreation in the UK. art, photography, picnicking and simply enjoying the view are drawn to water 4.2 Water sports overview In 1988, an estimated 247 million both for the interest offered by the It is generally accepted that participation recreational trips involved water in waterside and that the water in all forms of outdoor recreation is on some form, rivers, still waters and environment is the habitat of many the increase nationally and has been coastal waters. Of these trips more than wildlife species. River valleys are by throughout much of the 20th century. 15 million of them were to take part in nature flat and are attractive to the There are a number of factors thought to fishing, whilst 10 million leisure trips less mobile and the casual day walker. contribute to the growth in water based involved participants in both powered Participants in informal recreation, recreation. These include the general and unpowered water sports.9 including recreational cycling and increase in mobility of the population; During 1994 it is estimated that the bird watching, form by far the largest the introduction of new forms of water adult population of Britain made over number of recreational participants. sport, for example the Sail Board and 5,500 million visits from home of The very nature of their activities more recently the Personal Water Craft which: 5200 million (95%) were leisure makes it difficult to estimate the (PWC) or Jetski; technological advances day visits. 1 3% of these (652 million) true numbers involved. Walking is in production of materials which have included walking; 4% (180 million) were discussed further in Section 6.1. led to lighter, faster, and more durable made to the coast and 3% (158 million craft; and finally the availability of water In Southern Region provision for informal visits) were made to canals and rivers.’0 sports on many foreign holidays which recreation includes the country parks, encourage people to continue with bird and nature reserves, seaside resorts, these activities on their return. riverside and coastal footpaths, cycle Southern Region Southern Region is thought to be one of tracks. Participants include not only the Recent studies by the British Marine the most significant areas of the country local population but also people who Industries Federation (1994) suggest for water related recreation: this is due in visit the region every year. that more than 4.7 million adults are part to the extensive natural resource currently involved in boating and water The key providers for informal presented by the coastline, the long river recreation are the local authorities estuaries and the shallow harbour areas with their responsibilities, for managing which are suitable for many types of amongst other things, public footpaths, water based recreation. A variety of coastal resorts and many other facilities. sources indicate that the Region is the Also the Sussex Downs Board, the national focus for many water sports Wildlife Trusts, conservation bodies, activities." and local landowners through Countryside Stewardship schemes.

17 Water Related Recreation Strategy

Some demand in the Region is indicator of the level of recreational small trailable boats can use public generated by the presence of nationally activity. In addition while many people slipways. Canoeing and windsurfing and internationally important sites. The take part in water sports through club are particularly suitable as craft are easily Solent, as the stage for international membership or use of facilities at an transportable and may be launched from yachting events, is perhaps the most outdoor centre, many more participants informal launching sites such as beaches well known which is an indicator of its are individuals enjoying water related and river banks. Similarly angling with its importance as a national focus for water recreation in a more informal manner. large base in clubs and club membership sports activity. The large number of clubs is also pursued by non club participants Some forms of recreation lend and other organisations providing for at the many day ticket waters available themselves more easily to this type recreation in the Region is also an in the Region. of 'casual' participation, for example 5. Discussion of general issues, principles and recommendations

The issues discussed in this section are 5.1.1 Requirement for 5.1.2 Local Agenda 21 common to all recreation activities. a Sustainable Approach In 1992 a United Nations conference Further issues relevant to particular Sustainability is an underlying theme to on the Environment and Development activities are discussed in Section 6. the activities of the Agency and other (Earth Summit) was held in Rio. organisations. The principle aim of the A number of initiatives and principles 5.1 Sustainability Agency is specified in Section 4 of the were produced as a result including

Sustainability is integral to environmental Environment Act 1995: Agenda 21. management and planning. It is an Agenda 21 is a global action plan for underlying theme to this document Environment Act 1995 the 21st century produced from the and will guide principles and Rio Earth Summit. It aims to produce a recommendations for recreation. Section 4 Principal aim and framework for a more sustainable way In addition a number of issues are objectives of the Agency - of life bringing together economic, common to both formal and informal Sustainable Development. environmental and social concerns. recreation activities addressed in this (1) It shall be the principal aim strategy. These include information of the Agency (subject to and in Agenda 21 carries the message 'Think and education, equality of opportunity, accordance with the provisions of Globally, Act Locally' and recognises the management and water safety. this Act or any other enactment and fundamental need to address local issues taking into account any likely costs) by activities of local communities. There are a large number of demands in discharging its functions so to on the resource such as commercial protect or enhance the environment, Local authorities have been seen as the use of land and water, pressure for taken as a whole, as to make the focus for promoting and encouraging development land and conservation contribution towards attaining the local community action, and supporting value of sites. These may pose both objective of achieving sustainable local initiatives. The Agency and other potential constraints and offer development mentioned in organisations have a role to play in opportunities for recreation. subsection (3) below. providing information and expertise to the Agenda 21 process. The term 'Sustainable development' (3) The guidance given under first came to prominence in the World subsection (2) above must include Sustainability will be applied at a local Conservation Strategy published by guidance with respect to the level through principles set out in the World Conservation Union. It later contribution which, having regard Sections 5 and 6. achieved increased status with the to the Agency's responsibilities and publication of Our Common Future, resources, the Ministers consider it the Brundtland Report, in 1987 and appropriate to make, by the has been defined as, discharge of its functions, towards attaining the objective of achieving "Development that meets the needs of sustainable development". the present, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs"

19 Water Related Recreation Strategy

5.1.3 Impact of Leisure accessible by use of sustainable transport 5.2.1 Nature Conservation such as by public transport (bus, rail or Activities on the Environment A number of sites in Southern Region ferry) or cycling. The environment is The Government has addressed the have been designated for their integral to the enjoyment of most impact of leisure activities upon the conservation interest. These include recreation activities. There is a need environment within the context of the internationally important sites such as for a balance between sustaining "United Kingdom Sustainable Development Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) active sporting recreation activities and Strategy". Environment Committee under the EC Habitats Directive, conserving the natural environment. Fourth Report, The Environmental nationally important sites such as Sites Impact of Leisure Activities, Volume II, The challenge for the Agency and other of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) Minutes of Evidence.'2 organisations is to promote a level of and National Nature Reserves (NNRs) recreational activity which can be as designated by English Nature and From this report it is noted that any sustained by the natural environment. designated sites of local importance activity will have an impact on the including Local Nature Reserves (LNRs), environment. Impacts of any activity will designated by local authorities. It should vary according to a number of factors PRINCIPLES be recognised that it is not just these including timing, location and duration. 1. The management of water related designated sites which are important for Impacts may not always be detrimental recreation should be sensitive to nature conservation but also includes but may be positive influences on the the needs of local communities wildlife in the wider countryside. environment. Recreation is generally and the character of rural and Biodiversity Action Plans have been seen as less important than other tranquil areas. produced both nationally and locally. factors in causing disturbance to These identify both species and habitats 2. The promotion and management the environment." in water related areas including habitats, of recreation should be balanced such as reedbeds, and species, such as A number of potential environmental with other interests such as the otters and the white clawed crayfish. impacts of recreational activities are nature conservation value of sites. listed including overcrowding, traffic, wear and tear, disturbance and 3. Recreational sites near water and 5.2.2 Landscape access to water should be impacts of inappropriate development. It is essential that the impact of any protected from detrimental Disturbance may include impacts of activities on any designated landscape impacts of development. recreational activities on wildlife such areas such as AONBs are taken Water related recreational sites as nesting or wintering birds, sensitive into account and that these are adjacent to or linking urban habitats, erosion of footpaths and to sympathetic to the local landscape areas should be protected as local communities. A number of research of an area. In planning for recreation an important resource. studies have been carried out to address and other development, organisations aspects of potential impacts such as involved need to deliver sensitive Agency Research and Development on management with regard to the Impact of Navigation on Wildlife and 5.2 Balance between landscape where possible. methods for assessing River bank Erosion Conservation and Recreation for example. Disturbance is covered further in Section 5.2. Management for recreation must address the issue of the balance 5.1.4 Location of Recreation of interests between recreational activities, the need to protect the Another issue relating to sustainable nature conservation interests of the recreation is transport and location environment and landscape features. of recreational activities. Provision of recreation facilities should be easily

20 Water Related Recreation Strategy

Existing site management should be precautionary approach and restrict

such that awareness and appreciation some recreational activities. There are should include all parties likely of the environment is created through however, many examples around to be affected by the proposal. recreational activities'. the country where management All recreation facility proposals arrangements have achieved a sensible should be encouraged to have 5.2.3 Impacts and balance between conservation and an environmental assessment management recreational interests through measures and post project appraisal. such as spatial zoning of sites, temporal The countryside is valued by different zoning of activities and general • Facilities at existing sites where people in different ways and particular awareness raising of conservation issues there is a water related interest activities may be perceived to be amongst recreational users. Such good will be supported, where deemed detrimental to the environment. In practice should contribute to the appropriate. This includes environmental management a balanced resolution of many existing conflicts provision of key leisure facilities view needs to be taken with investigation between recreation and conservation such as toilets, car parking, into any likely impacts. In general and should be widely promoted. access, and information. "recreation is generally seen as less Successful working towards sustainable important than other factors such recreation in Southern Region requires as land management, pollution above all a commitment from all and development (although some organisations to cooperate in planning development may be linked to leisure for, managing and monitoring recreation activity)" as a factor impacting on the and identifying opportunities for environment, Environment Committee, improving the way we work together. 1995.

Up to date knowledge about the current Recommendations 'state of the environment' relating to • Research into the environmental recreation is required and also about impacts of relevant forms of the impacts of recreation on the recreation will be promoted to environment. A number of studies have gain a better understanding. been carried out including R&D currently being progressed on Environmental • Best practice management PRINCIPLES Impacts of recreation on Wildlife by the techniques will be developed 1. A balanced approach will be taken Agency and details included in the for sites. in promoting recreation activities Environment Committee Fourth Report • Recreation governing bodies and considering environmental, social The Environmental Impact of Leisure clubs should promote Codes of and economic factors. Activities.'2 However there is still a lack of Conduct/Practice to improve research into the effects of various types environmental awareness for 2. Examples of good management of recreational activity on the natural recreation users. practice in balancing the needs of resource and on wildlife and some wildlife and nature conservation wildlife are clearly sensitive to • Proposed recreation facilities with recreation interests should recreational pressures such as within sensitive areas should be be promoted and recreational disturbance and pollution. accompanied by provision of an participants and site visitors Environmental, Socio and should be made aware of nature This lack of information means that Economic Assessment including conservation interests through managers of areas which are used for on-going monitoring and post education and interpretation. recreation activities and have significant project appraisal. Monitoring nature conservation value must take a

21 Water Related Recreation Strategy

5.3 Water Quality environmental conditions the algae may • Be aware of symptoms relating to form a scum on the surface and this waterborne illnesses and, if you do Many water related recreational activities presents the highest risk to water users. feel ill, tell your doctor that you have involve contact with and sometimes In about 70% of cases the algae produce been in contact with water. immersion in water including inland toxins which may cause a variety of water bodies, rivers, estuaries and • Avoid contact with any fresh or dried illnesses in humans who come into coastal waters. algal scum and the water close to it. contact with the scum, ranging from Keep pets and livestock away from Water in its natural, untreated state skin irritation to vomiting and diarrhoea. affected water. contains large numbers of micro­ If pets or livestock swallow significant organisms (including bacteria and quantities of scum death may result. It is Governing bodies also issue guidelines to viruses) chemicals and suspended the responsibility of the owner of a water participants for individual sports. solids, such as mud particles. Most of the to take appropriate precautions when a micro-organisms are harmless although bloom occurs. In severe cases or where 5.3.2 Responsible bodies a few can cause disease. risk is high (for example, with immersion sports) it may be necessary to close the A number of organisations have responsibilities for water quality, these 5.3.1 Waterborne infection water until the bloom subsides. include the Agency, Local Authority A number of infections and diseases Environmental Health Department and are recognised in association with Action Water companies. There may often be recreational use of water. Those listed in Advice on water safety is included in a confusion among recreation users as to UK Symposium on health related water number of Agency publications such as which organisation they should contact microbiology'3 include typhoid fever, "Have fun, Have a care, information for regarding particular aspects of water hepatitis A, Leptospirosis, minor gastro river canoeists". To minimise risks from quality. intestinal illness and symptoms relating waterborne infection, recreation to eye, ear and respiratory tract. participants should: Recommendation

• See that cuts and scratches are • That the responsible bodies work Leptospirosis covered with waterproof plasters together to review and improve One particular disease about which there before you set out to participate systems to make information has been much public attention is Weils in contact water related activities. regarding water quality more easily disease or Leptospirosis. Weils disease is available to recreation participants • Do not purposely take into the caused by a bacterium which is carried in where Water Quality data is mouth or ingest untreated water the urine of infected animals, particularly relevant to the activity. from the natural environment rats. The disease can be caught from water, banks and vegetation • Ensure that any contaminated with such urine. abrasions received on or beside the water are washed under running Algal blooms tap water and covered A more common concern is that of with a waterproof illness associated with blue-green algae, dressing as soon which may form dense growths known as possible. as blooms. These usually occur between spring and autumn in lakes and ponds • wash your hands (very rarely in rivers) with around ten to before eating, drinking twenty new waters affected each year in or smoking Southern Region. Under certain Water Related Recreation Strategy

5.3.3 Agency responsibilities The Agency is charged with sampling for Water Quality and analysis of bathing waters in Recommendations accordance with the requirements The Agency has a number of duties and • Promote and encourage of the EC Bathing Waters Directive to powers under the Water Resources Act recreation participants to notify assess compliance with the standards 1991 and Environment Act 1995. the Agency of any pollution set. In this Region there are currently incidents. The Agency issues consents for 69 designated bathing beaches and discharges to controlled waters, these sampling records, results of which are • To collect detailed information consents containing quality conditions held by the Agency and local authorities, of sites used by recreation users. related to the identified water use. There are available to members of the public. are presently no Water Quality objectives Bathing beaches in Southern Region related to inland recreational water are indicated on Figure 3 from Bathing 5.3.4 Monitoring of Water Quality In England and Wales Recreation sites in Southern in 1996 - A summary report.'4 Region

In addition to the Agency's statutory Agency Activities duties for sampling EC designated River catchments are divided into river bathing beaches, additional monitoring stretches which are maintained regularly has been carried out at a number of non­ for different chemical and physical coastal sites identified for recreational characteristics. Each stretch has been use.,s This data allows the Agency to set a River Quality Objective (RQO) respond to requests for information dependent upon the river use of the from local authorities and is also related activities. Discharging effluents stretch. These RQOs form the basis for available to the public. without the consent of the Agency to both maintaining and improving river controlled waters is an offence in all quality and underpin water quality but the most exceptional circumstances. planning. Biological monitoring The Agency is required to enforce includes sampling and identification these provisions and has the power of invertebrates to give an indication of to prosecute. The Agency also has water quality to complement chemical responsibilities regarding pollution testing. The Agency responds to prevention such as regulating oil pollution incidents such as spillages storage and silage liquor. of oil or other chemicals. The guiding legislation affecting A hotline number is available to report recreation on coastal waters are the any such incidents: The sampling of designated bathing EC Bathing Water Directive, EC Urban waters takes place during summer Waste Water Treatment Directive months, from May to September. (UWWTD) and EC Dangerous Environment Agency Emergency However water sports and other water Substances Directive and daughter Hotline 0800 80 70 60 based recreational activities occur for a directives. Under the Bathing Water greater part of the year with directive a number of bathing waters Free line, 24 hours a day, 7 days opportunities provided by wet and dry have been designated around the a week. suits, and on a wide range of waters country according to the number across the Region, including inland sites, of people estimated to use the beach many of these falling outside the EC in the summer bathing season. Bathing Water Directive.

23 r

r. s

♦ 33 Hove ♦ 34 Southwick ♦ 35 South Lancing ♦ 36 Worthing ♦ 37 Littlehamton ♦ 38 Middleton-On-Sea ♦ 39 Felpham ♦ 40 Bognor Regis ♦ 41 Pagham ♦ 42 Selsey ♦ 43 Bracklesham Bay ♦ 44 West Wittering • 8 Margate ♦ 45 West Of Eastoke • 9 loss Bay ♦ 46 West Hayling ■ 10 Broadstairs ♦ 47 Eastney • 11 Ramsgate ■ 48 Southsea • 12 Sandwich Bay ■ 49 Stokes Bay • 13 Deal Castle ♦ 50 Lee-On-Solent • 14 St Margarets Bay ♦ 51 Hillhead ■ IS Folkestone ♦ 52 Calshot • 16 Sandgate ♦ 53 Lepe • 17 Hythe ♦ 54 Milford-On-Sea • 18 Dymchurch ♦ 55 Christchurch Bay • 19 St Marys Bay ♦ 56 Highcliffe • 20 Littlestone ♦ 57 Compton Bay • 21 Camber Legend: ♦ 58 Totland Bay • 22 Winchelsea ♦ 59 Colwell Bay ■ 23 Hastings ♦ 60 Gurnard ■ Bathing waters which did Bathing waters which • 24 St Leonards ♦ 61 Cowes • 25 Bexhill not meet mandatory met guideline coliform ■ 62 Ryde • 26 Normans Bay ♦ 63 Seagrove • 27 Pevensey Bay coliform standards and faecal streptococci ♦ 64 St Helens • 28 Eastbourne ♦ 65 Bembridge • Bathing water which met standards • 29 Seaford E n v i r o n m e n t A g e n c y ♦ 66 Whitecliffe Bay ■ 30 Newhaven Urban Areas ♦ 67 Sandown mandatory coliform O • 31 Saltdean ♦ 68 Shanklin • 32 Brighton standards ♦ 69 Ventnor Water Related Recreation Strategy

5.3.5 Classification of waters The Tidy Britain Group Seaside UWWTD Directive. The EC UWWTD sets for recreation Award Scheme out the appropriate levels of treatment The Seaside Award is also administered for urban waste waters, the level of In the late eighties and early nineties by the TBG and is intended to treatment being dependent upon the the National Rivers Authority, amongst complement the European Blue Flag nature of the receiving water, receiving other organisations, became involved Scheme outlined above. This scheme water sensitivity and discharge size. It in research into the development of a recognises beaches which attain is aimed that under this directive the system for the classification of waters for mandatory coliform standards, in quality of waste water entering rivers recreation. This was done in preparation addition to provision facilities of high and estuaries will improve. for the possible introduction of a national standards and beach cleanliness. The classification system and Statutory Water Although the statutory deadlines for land based criteria are of higher standard Quality Objectives for recreation sites. implementation of this directive are than those required for the Blue Flag Although, the Government decided not still some way off, many schemes in designation. The Seaside award is given to proceed with such measures, the Southern Region are scheduled to be for both 'Resort' and 'Rural' beaches with initial research undertaken provides operational much sooner thus bringing different compliance levels for each. useful research for those involved in about earlier improvements in water managing water related recreation. quality for the benefit of, recreation Recommendation and general aesthetics. 5.3.6 Beach Awards • Responsible bodies should work Without any Statutory Water Quality together to clarify information on A number of awards are given to beaches Objectives for recreation the emphasis beach awards, including Blue flag based on a number of different criteria, must be on raising awareness among and local authority awards. these may be awarded by the Tidy Britain participants about the potential health Group (TBG), an independent pressure risks involved in various water related group, or by local authorities. There are a activities and any relevant precautionary large number of award schemes which measures. Many governing bodies, water may confuse recreation participants. activity centres and clubs already provide Clarity is needed on the variety of awards guidance to users about water quality available and the requirements of each. and health risks as well as advice to Two awards are outlined below which members about Leptospirosis and have a requirement for water quality illnesses associated with blue-green standards to be met, applications for algae blooms. these awards are made to the Tidy Britain Group. 5.3.8 Litter and ‘Fly-tipping’

The presence of litter left directly on and The European Blue Flag Scheme adjacent to rivers and the sea presents a The European Blue Flags are awarded to 5.3.7 Future Improvements risk to recreation users. The inappropriate high quality EC beaches that meet the in Water Quality disposal of 'personal items' such as sanitary towels, condoms, needles and water quality and additional land based Under its statutory remit the Agency in razor blades which are flushed down the requirements of the award scheme. Southern Region works with the water toilet and end up indirectly in the Water quality must meet the higher companies responsible for waste water environment also cause problems to "guideline" microbiological criteria set treatment and other industries to bring recreation users. There have been a out in the EC Directive. The land-based about improvements in the quality of number of initiatives to reduce litter in requirement includes criteria such as water in rivers, estuaries and around the and around water such as the leaflets facility provision such as toilets, first aid, coast. Most significant for the future of produced by The National 'Bag it & Bin cleanliness and information displayed. Water Quality in the Region is the EC

25 Water Related Recreation Strategy

It' group. The Agency has no Giant hogweed can reach heights of responsibility for litter or 'fly-tipping', Recommendations 3 to 5 metres. "The hollow stems are this is the responsibility of the local attractive to children who use them • Codes of Conducts for recreation authorities. Countryside Projects may as 'pea shooters' and 'telescopes'. users should cover protection of carry out actions to reduce or remove However, it should not be touched the environment to reduce litter. litter as they are often funded by the without wearing protective clothing local authorities in addition to the • Clubs and organisations should because the plant produces large Agency. The Medway River Project be encouraged to undertake action volumes of sap which, on contact with received the Queen Mothers Birthday to remove litter from recreation skin, and in the presence of sunlight, Award, Premier Award for Enterprise locations. causes severe irritation, swelling and in 1994-95 mainly for work in removal painful blistering".16 of litter. A free guidance booklet is available from PRINCIPLES the Agency giving information on

1. The Agency, under its statutory distribution and identification and remit, will continue to work with control of invasive plants. relevant organisations including Giant hogweed is present on river the water companies and industry banks and other wetland areas and can to maintain and where possible be a hazard to recreation users in these bring about improvements in areas, both to land based activities and the quality of water in still waters, at points of access for water based rivers, estuaries and around activities. Large sections of land the coast. adjacent to rivers is in private ownership

2. Responsible agencies, including and there is no requirement for control local authorities, governing of Giant hogweed to be carried out. bodies and the Agency, should An area of the upper River Arun, work together to promote the Baldings Brook, has been surveyed for distribution of water quality Giant hogweed as part of a collaborative information to recreational users project with Horsham District Council and the Agency. Control of giant 'Navigate with Nature' is a joint initiative and the public, where water hogweed has been carried out in the between the British Marine Industries quality is relevant to the activity. study area with subsequent monitoring. Federation (BMIF) and Environmental Development (UK CEED), aimed at promoting responsible boating for the 5.4 Water Safety 5.4.2 Safety Initiatives protection of the environment and 5.4.1 Hazardous plants - One safety initiative recently set up is intends to aid the reduction of litter to Giant Hogweed the Boat Safety Scheme. The Boat coastal waters from boats. This project Safety Scheme is a joint initiative A number of non-native plants have was launched in Poole Harbour in 1996 between British Waterways and been introduced to Britain, a few of and is likely to be extended to other the Agency with an emphasis on safety which have become aggressively boating areas such as the Solent. for boaters and others visiting rivers dominant, creating serious problems in and canals and protection of the some areas. Giant Hogweed is one of water environment. The scheme is these plants which not only shades out to be implemented where British native plants and provides a poor habitat Waterways or the Agency are the for insects, birds and mammals, but in navigation authority. In Southern Region addition poses a serious health hazard.

26 Water Related Recreation Strategy

this is to be introduced on the Medway appropriate. This raises the need for of sites for both informal recreation subject to changes in byelaw legislation. effective recreation management and for and more formal sports and activities. increased awareness of other users to There are parts of the Region that reduce the potential for occurrence of Recommendation come under intense pressure from accidents. This will be addressed in informal uses, particularly affected is • Support initiatives aiming to later sections for information and the countryside in urban fringe areas improve safety for recreation users management of recreation. such as the Boat Safety Scheme. which is easily available to large numbers of people. Other areas, PRINCIPLE available for recreational use, are 5.4.3 Awareness of under used because they are more All users will be encouraged to act in Water Safety remote and difficult to reach. a safe and responsible manner when The National Rivers Authority produced on or near to water. All recreation Where there are no existing rights of way a number of publications aimed to users should be aware of safety landowners have no legal obligation to improve water safety such as "Water regulations, local byelaws and make private land available to the public. Wisdom" produced with assistance from Codes of practice produced by However, initiatives such as 'Access 2000' the Public Health Laboratory Service and the Governing bodies of sport. promoted by the Country Landowners the Department of Health. Issues include Association (CLA), encourage landowners risks to participants from drowning. The to make more land available for CCPR (The Central Council of Physical recreation, including waterside sites. Recreation) produce a leaflet with the 5.5 Access and facilities Similarly, some agri-environmental Sports Council 'National Water Sports for recreation schemes support the provision of land Code'37 which covers common sense The Agency has a general duty "to for recreation within an overall scheme. points to note for a variety of activities. promote the use of inland and coastal The benefits of these initiatives include waters and land associated with them for the potential to reduce pressure on Recommendations recreational purposes to the extent that popular sites, the chance to secure long • Ensure that all special events have it deems desirable." Access is generally term access agreements for recreation written consent as required in line needed to make use of water and and the opportunity to promote wider with local byelaws. associated land for recreational activities. appreciation of the environment by The Agency encourages opportunities for providing quality sites for recreation. • Raise awareness of water safety recreation provision such as those made issues by responsible bodies. through voluntary access agreements The majority of visitors to the with landowners. countryside and water areas, such as • Good codes of practice regarding rivers, do so for the 'quiet enjoyment'. water safety should be promoted through clubs and governing 5.5.1 Access and rights bodies. Additional ways to of way disseminate information to casual Access to water and land associated with participants should be investigated. water varies greatly in urban, rural, coastal and inland settings. Land use 5.4.4 Multi-functional such as for flood defence purposes, use of sites landownership and various designations relating to archaeology, history, The Agency and other organisations landscape or conservation are all promote the multiple use of sites by factors which influence the suitability different recreational users, where Water Related Recreation Strategy

Popular activities include health and contributing to the quality of peoples 5.5.2 Use of public footpaths fitness, art, photography and nature lives. It should be an aim of all those by non permitted users, interest. There is a need for sites which involved in providing for recreation to eg cyclists, horse riders can be enjoyed in an informal way with ensure that factors which might affect Rights of way such as footpaths and little or no apparent visitor management peoples ability make use of recreational bridle ways are the responsibility of and these should be recognised. opportunities in their area and are taken local authorities. These are sometimes Access everywhere is not appropriate into account in planning provision, used inappropriately by non permitted and identification of these areas is creating new opportunities and making users. A number of publications are as important as those which need better use of existing resources. produced regarding use of footpaths, management and provision of recreation Availability of opportunity for all forms bridle ways and byways. facilities. The Sports Council statement of recreation in all parts of the Region "Access for all, but not everywhere" can may not be appropriate or desirable be used as a useful summary. Recommendation for a variety of reasons, including the • Local authorities to further promote In addition to the impact on sites and sensitive nature of some sites; land information regarding correct use of wildlife, there is a need to recognise and owner requirements, the incompatibility rights of way take into account other factors when of some activities and the particular promoting recreation such as a need for locational requirements of some parking, impact on local communities, activities. However, the principle of 5.5.3 Equality of opportunity accessibility for all abilities, proximity equality of opportunity for all sectors for access to public transport, and further of the community should be an Different members of the community opportunities for the local population. underlying theme of activities of have different recreational needs. Some the key providers in the Region. of these needs are determined by age or physical ability. Research undertaken Recommendations by the Fieldfare Trust, a charitable • Further opportunities for recreation organisation specialising in disability activities should be pursued as part and countryside recreation, indicates of voluntary agreements with that information is a key factor in the landowners in initiatives such as provision of opportunities for people Countryside Stewardship, Access with disabilities. It is a common 2000 and Environmentally Sensitive misperception amongst recreation Areas (ESA) where appropriate. providers that the needs of disabled The Agency can contribute to the The Agency endorses the use of visitors must always be met through provision of better opportunities for voluntary access agreements as the provision of specialist facilities such informal recreation in part through an effective means of achieving as handrails, ramps and tarmacadam management of its own sites and by the shared use of rivers and surfacing. Frequently, what is needed working with other organisations to encourages their use. above all else is clear, accurate promote existing routes. Sixty four information about facilities and site Agency sites in Southern Region • Review recreation provision within conditions to enable all potential visitors currently have public rights of access. the Region to identify quiet areas to make an informed decision about The Agency will encourage the creation and areas where further provision whether a particular site meets their of further access opportunities for of recreational activity is desirable recreational needs. waterside and water based recreation. and possible. The Disability Discrimination Act, 1995, Access to recreational opportunities is makes it unlawful to discriminate against recognised as an important factor in disabled people in the provision of Water Related Recreation Strategy

services and facilities. The Act does not people, such as fishing pegs and disabled The English Sports Council Coastal require new facilities to be created for access trail on the River Medway near Strategy 1989 also identifies the need for disabled people; it is about making Teston, fishing platforms at Brooklands improved public access to the coast. facilities already provided accessible Lake, Snodland, and the production to all. Where access for recreational of a Disabled Access Strategy, which Recommendations purposes is actively promoted it is likely identified provision of access for the • To seek and encourage further that the Act will become applicable. less-able at sites along the Medway access point for recreation The full implications of the Act for the Catchment. A National Research and opportunities to the coast. Agency and other recreation providers Development project addresses the in the Region are not yet fully clear. needs of disabled people in relation • To bring all the public launch sites The Agency's Recreation duty already to water related activities. in the Region to an acceptable requires the Agency to take the needs standard of repair. of chronically sick and disabled into 5.5.4 Facilities and access account and this duty may be seen to be points reinforced by the Act. How best to meet Slipways, launching sites and other the requirements of the Act is being access points on the coast or inland considered by the Agency at a national are the basic facilities upon which level'8. There are, however, opportunities much water recreation is dependent for Southern Region, together with and as such are a focus point for other recreation providers, to begin activity. Additional facilities such immediately to explore ways of as toilets, showers and car parking complying with Act to promote greater may also be needed depending on access to recreation for all sectors of the the activity. Day visitors, for example, community. In doing this, consultation may require toilets and the availability with disabled organisations is essential of refreshments, whilst other activities and should be seen as a first step in such as sailing may need provisions meeting the requirements of the Act. such as trailer parking and availability The Fieldfare Trust, supported by the of fresh water to clean equipment. English Sports Council, has produced 5.5.5 Location and Design a "Countryside Factfile for people with Information about the use, condition Facilities need to be designed according disabilities" in Southern Region'7. This and management of these facilities is to the location such as urban or rural publication gives location of clubs and not complete for all parts of the Region. environments. Information regarding the facilities available with a particular focus However, it is clear that some sites are design of facilities can be obtained from on accessible features. In Southern in a poor state of repair, particularly a number of different sources such as the Region the Medway River Project has on some tidal rivers and coastal sites. Handbook for Sport publication from the been involved in a number of projects to There is inadequate provision for users English Sports Council and advice from provide further opportunities for disabled in addition to constrained times of Sports Council Officers. The National use due to tides resulting in pressure Rivers Authority Recreation Facility and sometimes user conflict at popular Design Manual” includes information launch sites. Management of recreation for a variety of structures, surfaces and users through access points is discussed specialist items. in Section 5.7. It should be noted that the Agency The need for improved public access to should be contacted regarding any the coast has been identified from users proposals for constructions on, over, by the questionnaire survey. under or adjacent to rivers as consent

29 Water Related Recreation Strategy

may be required, in addition to any Council support the view that where planning permission, for works under the specialist facilities are provided, users Recommendations Land Drainage Act 1979 and Southern should be prepared to pay for their use. • New facilities should be promoted Region Land Drainage Byelaws, 1991. and provided where identified as 5.5.8 Transport to facilities necessary.

A number of alternative transport • A Region wide overview of existing opportunities in the Region include launch points, their condition, use, the Chichester Ferry linking Itchenor availability and cost should be to Bosham. More sustainable methods undertaken, linking with all existing of transport, as an alternative to the car, available information. including cycling, walking, use of boats and public transport should be used. The • Signing at slipways and launch site use of cycles or public transport may not should be seen as opportunities to be appropriate for all recreation activities manage recreational use and to for example where large items of guide and inform users. equipment such as sailboards or canoes • A list of available references for 5.5.6 Public use of facilities need to be transported. However many facility design should be compiled, activities such as day trips may make use Facilities may be public and used updated and made available. Good of public transport routes. by individuals and recreational design should be promoted in line organisations, they may be privately with the Recreation Facility Design owned and used exclusively by particular 5.5.9 Information on Manual. user groups or they may be privately facilities owned and made available for use by the • Wherever new facilities are A survey of recreation in Chichester public. Provision of facilities for public proposed, the management should harbour,20 land and water has been use is encouraged by the Agency and for be clearly stated and agreed by carried out for Chichester Harbour proposals seeking lottery funding there is relevant parties. Conservancy, sponsored by SE a requirement for facilities to be available Regional Sports Council which provides • New ways to disseminate to the public information on facilities, slipways and car information to users should be parking. It is intended that a collation of investigated in particular to Recommendations available recreation publications for the casual participants. area covered by the Medway Estuary and • To encourage clubs to make Swale Management Plan4 in North Kent provision for public access and is to be carried out supported by the to manage specialist facilities. English Sports Council. It is often not a • Customer research should be carried lack of provision of facilities that is an out where possible to identify needs issue but rather the failure to provide for facility provision. existing and potential users with the relevant information.

5.5.7 Cost of provision

In general, provision of free facilities and access for recreation is desirable. However charging for the use of facilities often means that better standards can be offered. The Agency and English Sports Water Related Recreation Strategy

Information about levels of recreational PRINCIPLES: should be promoted, where activity and the location of facilities and desirable, by organisations such sites is needed to enable those involved 1. Visitor facilities should be promoted as the Agency, local authorities in providing recreation opportunities as they are an integral part of many and other relevant organisations to plan and manage their resources recreation activities. Facilities should working together with effectively. Education regarding be located appropriately and where landowners. recreation and environmental possible should be encouraged in management should be available areas where there is existing 7. Provision of disabled access to all and not just young people. development, in keeping with the will be made where appropriate local landscape characteristics and in consultation with relevant away from sensitive nature representatives for disabled 5.6.2 Existing education conservation sites. people. Suitability of areas for initiatives access will be assessed on a site 2. The significance of slipways and Environmental education is carried out by site basis and will not be launch sites as key recreational by a large number of organisations in promoted where safety of facilities should be recognised. addition to formal training in schools. users will be compromised. Existing access facilities should be The Agency has recently published a leaflet entitled 'Grassroots'2' which sets protected and appropriate provision 8. The Agency will support the out Education aims for the Agency and of new facilities encouraged. creation of further access has appointed a Regional Education opportunities for waterside 3. In the location of new recreational co-ordinator with a Regional Education and water based recreation. The facilities, consideration should be Group to guide Agency education Agency endorses and encourages given to schemes which are activities. the use of voluntary access accessible by modes of transport agreements as an effective other than personal car such as The English Sports Council focuses on means of achieving the shared cycling, walking and public the introduction of young people to use of waters. transport, including bus, rail sporting activities, working with clubs, and ferries. governing bodies and schools through 5.6 Information and the National Curriculum. The National 4. Use should be made where possible Curriculum includes an option for Education of existing customer research data outdoor activities which can include and further recreation studies 5.6.1 Information and water based recreation. should be promoted. education for recreation users

5. The provision of facilities such Information about recreation as fishing pegs for angling and opportunities is a key factor in visitor moorings are supported determining where people go to take in principle. These should be part in sport and recreation and the constructed in appropriate areas nature of the activities they participate following a strategic approach. in. Information can be used as a Where Agency consent is required management tool to both promote and consideration will be made on a site control activity. Providing information by site basis and provision may not about how and where to take part in be appropriate everywhere. recreation is as important in creating equality of opportunity as the actual 6. Increased opportunities for informal provision of facilities themselves. and formal recreational activities

31 Water Related Recreation Strategy

Existing work in education by the Agency type of information available ranges from 5.6.3 Interpretation at sites has involved collaborative projects with details of recreation clubs and activity Consideration should be given to the organisations such as the Wildlife Trusts centres to information regarding self way in which information for users and via WATCH groups, local authorities and guided river walks and nature trails. visitors is provided at recreation sites. school groups directly. Examples include Water sports activity centres also provide Adequate planning of recreation sites is production of information and activity environmental education for participants required to ensure that an appropriate packs such as 'Exploring the North Kent involved in sporting activities. These are number of signs is provided. Signs in Marshes' for teachers and pupils, 'Green addressed further in Section 6.17. a good state of repair showing clear, Link' in Sussex, and Low Tide Day relevant information are needed. Signs activities. should clearly state key messages about Recommendations the site to enhance the users recreation • Countryside River Projects supported experience. by the Agency and other organisations produce a large The purpose of any on-site recreation number of advisory leaflets, lists of information should be to guide and these should be compiled, regularly inform the visitor, either for their own updated and utilised more widely. safety; to increase their enjoyment or to raise awareness about the nature of the • Investigate further opportunities for site. The location of site information, dissemination of information, its purpose, its target audience and its Green Link is an Environmental Award including possible INTERNET relation with any other signs should scheme which was launched by the Recreation Web Site. be considered. Where visitor safety Agency in 1996/97 in East and West is concerned, or where directional Sussex. These awards followed on from • Provide recreation input into information is required, standard, widely the Waterwise Awards run by the education and assessment of the recognised symbols should be used. National Rivers Authority. The awards requirements of target audiences. offer an opportunity for Sussex schools Interpretation boards and signs may • Need to provide education to carry out practical projects and raise not be appropriate or required at all materials on integrated water awareness of their local environment; sites and it should be recognised that and environmental management these are currently being extended recreation management may not be linked with Agency functions to across the Region. 'Green Goals', a needed at all sites. complement specialist education similar initiative, has recently been provided by other organisations. set up in Kent Agency Area. • Continue to carry out educative In addition to collaborative projects the and informative activities such as Agency undertakes a number of other Green Link, across the Region. education activities such as giving talks to school groups and other interest • Produce materials relevant to the groups, supervision of work placements, National Curriculum and promote provision of information and exhibitions increased consultation on fact at public events. sheets and other education material with Area Agency staff and external A large number of organisations provide organisations such as the Wildlife information leaflets for recreation, Trusts and NAEE (National including the Countryside River Association of Environmental Projects supported by the Agency, local Education). authorities and other organisations. The

32 Water Related Recreation Strategy

5.6.4 Communication Medway Estuary and Swale Management Recommendations between providers and Plan and the Solent Forum.

• Information at recreation sites managers of recreation The coordination of efforts and the should be appropriately located; Currently in Southern Region, a sharing of expertise in collecting clear in its purpose and target wide range of organisations provide information such as supply and demand audience; and, where relevant, information on recreational opportunities data, is important to achieve efficient use standard widely recognised to the general public. The same and application of resources. symbols should be used. Guidance organisations are collecting information will be provided for the Agency for planning and management purposes. through the Agency signing These organisations include the English Recommendations manual. Sports Council Governing bodies of • The Agency will encourage closer sport, the local authorities and also the • If interpretation signs are working relationships with Agency. An opportunity exists for these thought to be appropriate it is organisations concerned to meet, organisations to coordinate their recommended that boards or discuss and understand each others activities by sharing existing information panels should follow the requirements, issues and concerns databases and collaborating in the guidelines below: and to help achieve consensus provision of information to the public. In on the way forward. Improved doing this, duplication of effort may be relationships will increase co­ avoided and resources may be redirected Interpretation board guidelines ordination and help identify to the development of new initiatives. i. Be in keeping with the opportunities on which to For example, the distribution of surrounding environment and collaborate. landscape. Where possible be recreation information through the use constructed from locally available of the Internet and other computer • Agency attendance at Croups set materials making use of local based media. up to aid management in recreation trade, such as coppiced woodland such as proposed Kent Recreation Estuary management plan projects have crafts, or stonework. Sub Croup to aid in the delivery of played an important role in bringing the Kent Countryside Strategy led together organisations, with economic, ii. Have provision for dual or by Kent County Council, and other social and environmental interests to multi-language boards where groups and fora including the promote better understanding, eg appropriate eg especially in River Arun Working Croup. Kent and other coastal areas with connections with the • There is a need to co-ordinate and rest of Europe. link education activities externally between other organisations iii. Make provision for information for involved with the provision of blind or partially sighted people. environmental education. iv. Be at heights suitable for use by • Investigation of further use of children and people using the Agency's Recreation database wheelchairs. with possible links with other organisations. v. Be in accordance with National Agency guidelines. vi. Be visible from the water, where appropriate

33 Water Related Recreation Strategy

5.6.5 Promotion of 5.7 Water Recreation Recommendations recreation within the Agency Management • Encourage placement of students There is a need to promote the with background training in 5.7.1 Managing the recreation duties further within the countryside/coastal recreation to recreational resource Agency. This will be achieved partly carry out projects such as river through the production of this strategy Protecting the environment, making recreation studies. and subsequent consultation. A best use of the available resource and recreation reference manual is to be • Continue to carry out Recreation resolving conflicts between different interests are all dependent on successful produced by the Agency nationally Research and Development and management. In Southern Region there to guide recreation work carried out. make others aware of research are many examples of good practice in initiatives and findings. recreation management of formal and Recommendations informal water related recreation. • Ensure that 'best practice' experiences are disseminated 5.7.2 Successful Management to other Agency areas and to through Consultation and investigate ways to improve User Participation dissemination of information within the Agency. The existing and end users, the visitors and participants, are the most important • Recreation reference manual should part of recreation management and yet be promoted and be made available are sometimes overlooked by recreation to all Agency staff. planners and managers. Responses to the Agency's recent water based recreation • Need for effective training for staff PRINCIPLES: survey indicate that considerable scope with recreation responsibilities. 1. Relevant organisations should exists for more consultation with users seek to raise awareness and and visitors to ensure that management keep recreation participants 5.6.6 Research and practices are meeting real needs and that better informed. resources are accurately targeted. Where Development users form a recognisable club or contact 2. Relevant organisations should Research and Development (R&D) has group this may be easily achieved. adopt a coordinated approach been identified in a number of sections Where a site is used for more informal to the provision of information. of this strategy, to aid recreation recreation consulting with visitors may management and benefit users. 3. The Agency and other be more difficult but should still be Research may be carried out by organisations will aim to considered worthwhile as effective student placements in the Agency or provide a greater understanding consultation benefits both users and through the Agency's national Research of recreation as an integral part managers and is often the key to and Development programme. of environmental education and resolving management issues. environmental issues by, working Water areas have a variety of different in partnership with other relevant demands made on them from a range organisations. of interests. This sometimes results in 4. Education material for young conflicts between recreational users and people will be linked to the commercial activities or those seeking to National Curriculum. protect wildlife and nature conservation interests. Conflicts may be easily resolved

34 Water Related Recreation Strategy

through negotiation and the application Country Landowners Association (CLA), successful way of sharing a limited of good management techniques. National Farmers Union (NFU), riparian resource. For example, a water area of Clubs and users are generally the best landowners and the National Federation significance for overwintering birds may regulators of their own activities and the of Anglers (NFA) to develop a joint have the potential for summer use by governing bodies of sport frequently access guide for anglers, canoeists windsurfers or sailors. Similarly, club issue guidance and codes of conduct to and landowners. angling waters that are used primarily members to help address such problems. at weekends may be suitable for use Langstone Harbour is one example in the 5.7.3 Access Control by school groups for a whole range of Region of user consultation developing activities during the week making full Access points are an important issue into user participation in site use of what is, in this Region, a scarce in recreation management and the management, where the waterski club resource, namely enclosed still waters, control of these is frequently the key to both police and manage water skiing and at the same time possibly generating successful management of informal and within the harbour area. additional income for site managers. formal recreation sites. Signs and other Resolving conflicts between different forms of information, and physical Different waters can be used for different recreation users is discussed above, structures such as gates and stiles enable interests, and it must be accepted that however, it is notable that users on the managers to guide and influence users, all activities will not be appropriate on River Stour including the Downstream controlling different uses of a site or all sites. Interests Group and Angling Clubs have facility. An example is on the Swale, come together to resolve some of their North Kent where specific water based differences through discussions and activities are required to use different Recommendations public meetings and this approach to access points to the water.4 This reduces • The Agency will continue to conflict resolution is welcomed by the congestion at launching sites and avoids contribute to the mediation of Agency. Slightly further afield on the potential conflict between different conflicts between relevant users River Thames, a series of River User activities. of the water environment. Groups, (RUGs), provide a useful forum • Employ access controls and zoning for representatives of different groups 5.7.4 Zoning to maximise the enjoyment of the to discuss issues and areas of potential The division of water areas into zones water environment. concern. The Agency's Area Environment for different activities is widely practised Groups (AEGs) provide a local forum for • Consideration should be given across the Region and as a management issues arising from such groups. For the to the establishment of river user technique is often highly successful. statutory Navigation responsibilities of groups where necessary across the However, indications are that this type of the Harbour of Rye, the Agency has region to act as a contact point for zoning is most successful where there is a specific advisory user committee the Agency consultations and to reduce a regular management presence. This is Harbour of Rye Advisory Committee conflict between different interest achieved through on site managers, visits (HORAC) to assist in its management groups. by regular patrols or by management of these valuable waters. In addition the through a particular user group. Without Medway River Users Association (MRUA) some form of policing, zoning can be is an independent committee which PRINCIPLE easily abused and although it is usually assists in the management of a minority of participants who ignore Appropriate management techniques the Medway. boundaries, wildlife can be disturbed should be employed, involving both The Agency also has a role to play in and others users can be disturbed or users and managers, to mitigate the assisting to 'mediate' to help resolve put at risk by such behaviour. effects of recreational pressure and areas of conflict where Agency interests enhance recreation experiences. Seasonal or temporal zoning of activities are involved and is currently working can be easier to manage and is often a with the British Canoe Union (BCU),

35 Water Related Recreation Strategy

5.8 Agency Sites ment of the sites and the production of Thames. The site comprises four gravel site management plans. It is intended pits with patches of fen vegetation The Agency is responsible for more than that Agency sites in Hampshire will surrounded by the narrow fringe of 500 sites in Southern Region. Although also be reviewed for recreation to assess dry land and is designated as a SSSI the functions of the Agency relate to priority sites for management. It is for its increasingly diverse range of inland water bodies, rivers and coastal essential that Agency sites are prioritised plants and animals. waters and defences these are in general for management and that costs for not owned by the Agency. The fishing rights to the lakes are leased management are assessed and taken from the Environment Agency and are Many of the sites owned by the Agency into consideration to maximise use of fished throughout the year. Through are small and may consist of bore holes resources and benefits on the ground. close liaison with English Nature, the or gauging stations and have no Kent Wildlife Trust who manage the recreational interest. There are however, 5.8.1 Agency sites managed site and the Agency, angling activities more than 80 sites of recreational value for recreation are managed to minimise any adverse ranging in size from small gauging This section includes examples of impacts on the special interest of the site. stations with adjacent public footpaths significant Agency owned sites in the to the 60 hectares of Park Wood in Region currently in use for recreation. East Sussex and Ruxley Pits in Kent. Woodleas Conservation Area Recreational activities on Agency sites 0 Woodleas is an area of open water are varied but focus usually on angling, surrounded by grassland and scrub and walking and informal recreation. is managed as a conservation area for

Management of Agency sites and wildlife. It was created in 1989 on former promotion of recreation where desirable agricultural land as part of the Ashford is a priority for the Agency. Access for Flood Alleviation scheme. A public recreation will be promoted where it footpath runs along the southern does not conflict with the operational boundary of the site. This is partially needs or safety requirements of the site, screened from the main part of the site in balance with other interests. by landscaping and scrub and offers good opportunities for bird watching. The Agency has undertaken a review of all land holding documents for sites owned to assess existing and potential Harbour of Rye conservation and recreation interest. The Harbour of Rye is owned and Further consideration of recreation managed by the Agency which is also potential of Agency sites has been the Harbour Authority. Rye is a historic carried out in different ways in each Kent Area sea port situated on the mouth of the area of Southern Region. In Sussex Area, Eastern Rother in East Sussex, which In Kent Area examples of significant sites a Site Assessment Assistant has been became the seventh Cinque Port in the in use for recreation include Ruxley Pits, responsible for producing a number of Fourteenth Century. Harbour of Rye, Rye Harbour Nature site management plans and promoting Reserve and Woodleas. The Harbour Master and Deputy Harbour improvements of sites through modifica­ Master both act to manage and control tions in site maintenance contracts. the harbour, controlling and regulating In Kent Area, visits have been made Ruxley Gravel Pits shipping and other river traffic to ensure to Agency sites to assess potential for Ruxley gravel pits are one of the few safety of navigation and to balance recreation interest. This has been carried areas of relatively undisturbed open river usage for all Harbour users. This out on a catchment basis and will allow water in Greater London, south of the is carried out through a number of prioritisation to be made for manage­

36 Water Related Recreation Strategy

activities. A Pilotage service is provided use of areas of saltings or saltmarsh for Pagham Harbour to comply with statutory responsibilities recreation and Agency activity. Pagham Harbour is a Local Nature of Competent Harbour Authority. Local Reserve, and designated SSSI, SPA and and navigational advice is also given to Ramsar site. The reserve is managed by harbour users and interested parties to Rye Harbour Nature Reserve warden and assistant education warden promote safety awareness and promote Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is managed for West Sussex County Council. The the interests of the Harbour. A free by a warden from the Sussex Wildlife reserve is used extensively for a variety publication 'Mariner's Guide to Rye'22 is Trust. This includes a section of land of informal recreation activities such as available from the Agency. owned by the Agency. Much of the walking and bird watching, with access recreation carried out within the reserve via public footpaths, designated trails Facilities available at the Harbour of Rye is associated with informal enjoyment of and Crown foreshore land. include moorings, electricity, toilet and the area with activities such as bird and shower facilities, boat waste reception nature watching. facilities and fresh water. Moorings are Park Wood available in Rye Town itself at Strand Park Wood is an area of ancient Quay for craft up to 15 metres and for woodland with chestnut and hornbeam larger craft up to 25 metres near to the trees. It is a designated SNCI. A part-time Harbour Office. Harbour charges are warden is present on the site funded collected by the Harbour Master and through collaboration with the Agency Deputy. and East Sussex County Council. Informal recreation activities occur at the The Harbour of Rye has some site such as walking and bird watching. commercial activity including Provision has also been made for commercial fisheries. Recreation activities wheelchair access and car parking. include dinghy sailing, yachting, water skiing and informal enjoyment of the harbour and its surroundings. Water Hampshire Area skiing activity is carried out from the Isle of Wight railway bridge to Star Lock, and this site An Agency access track is present In Hampshire Area Agency owned land is considered as one of the main areas for through the reserve which is used by includes sections of disused railway track water skiing in the Region, being used at Agency vehicles when carrying out on the Isle of Wight. A collaborative times of high water. Other recreational essential Flood Defence beach feeding project is proposed with the Isle of Wight activity is carried out by Rye Sailing Club activities. This track is not a public right Council following a feasibility study and and Rye Harbour Boat Owners Club with of way but is open for use by walkers and on-going consultation with relevant which the Harbour closely liaises. cyclists only when there is no operational landowners to create a formal cycle route Jetskiing in the harbour is an issue and activity for safety reasons. Opportunities along the disused railway line from this activity is presently restricted above for an interpretation centre for the Newport to Sandown. the harbour slipway for safety of users. reserve are presently being investigated.

The Harbour of Rye lies in an area which Recommendation is of particular importance for its nature Sussex Area • Complete review of Agency sites for conservation value designated as Rye In Sussex examples of significant sites recreational potential and assess Harbour Nature Reserve SSSI, SPA, in use for recreation include Park Wood, associated management costs. Ramsar and part SAC. Interests must not Pagham Harbour Nature Reserve, only be balanced between recreational Barcombe Mills, Ferring Rife and users but with the wildlife interests of the Rowner Mill. area. Issues have arisen over conflict of

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partnership with other organisations. PRINCIPLE Recommendations Guidance for eligibility criteria for The Agency will endeavour to projects has been produced nationally, • Subject to the particular demonstrate best practice in the but Agency Area offices may have circumstances of each site, multiple environmental management of its additional criteria. There is a need for use of Agency owned sites will be own sites, including preparation of combined Regional checklist for projects. encouraged and non conflicting management plans for best sites. access will generally be sought for several activities. Recommendation

5.8.2 Multiple use of sites — • Clubs leasing sites from the Agency • That the National Eligibility criteria Opportunity for all for recreational activities will be checklist is made available to The Agency aims to promote multiple encouraged to operate day ticket external parties to assess potential use of sites where appropriate. It is systems or similar arrangements collaborative projects for recreation. recognised that recreation may not be to allow members of the public to appropriate on all sites due to other take part in recreational activities interests or constraints such as safety on Agency sites. 5.9.2 Flood Defence or operational requirements. Multiple • It is desirable for clubs to affiliate The Flood Defence department of the use of sites may not also be desirable to governing bodies. However, Agency carries out a range of activities everywhere as some activities such as affiliation to governing bodies of including dredging, weed cutting and water skiing may require exclusive sport will not generally be a pre­ pioneering works on designated lengths use of a site or designated area. condition for clubs leasing Agency of rivers and other waterways in order to The Agency recognises that affiliation sites although clubs should be maintain channels and reduce flooding. of clubs to governing bodies is beneficial required to carry public liability Flood Defence also maintain lengths of in a number of different ways such as insurance and will be considered coastal and tidal defences. These benefits from third party insurance. responsible for the safety of visitors necessary operations often use heavy However, generally affiliation to to the site, other than from machinery and can have an effect on governing bodies will not be a pre­ incidents arising out of the pre­ recreational activities such as angling and condition for clubs leasing Agency existing condition of the land. walking, through temporary closures of sites so that use is not restricted. footpaths, or sections of beaches etc.

The Annual Flood Defence Maintenance PRINCIPLE Programme is drawn up early each year. This contains details of activities The Agency will promote recreational described above and stretches use of sites in its control where this where they are to be carried out. will not conflict with the primary The programme is discussed and operational uses of the site and agreed with the Area Conservation safety requirements. and Recreation Officers and then sent out for wider consultation with interested conservation organisations. 5.9 Agency activities In recent years consultation has included 5.9.1 Recreation angling representatives in Kent Area.

Collaborative projects are undertaken by the Agency's Fisheries, Ecology and Recreation (FER) department in

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5.9.3 Recreational use of sea installed to provide information for local PRINCIPLES and tidal defences walkers and cyclists who use the site. 1. Agency maintenance activities will The Agency is one of a number of be designed and programmed to organisations including local authorities 5.9.3 Coastal processes minimise damage to recreational and Internal Drainage Boards which Natural coastal processes act to move interests and will seek to achieve carries out operations on river, tidal sediment and other materials around enhancements where practicable. and coastal defences for flood defence the coast. In carrying out the Agency's purposes. Sea and tidal defences have 2. The Agency will support the use statutory duties, activities such as a number of operational requirements of flood defences for recreational those carried out by the Flood Defence for their maintenance and recreational activities, in principle, however department may affect the natural activities, such as cycling, may interfere these will not be permitted coastal processes which may alter with operations, cause damage to flood where it will affect the operational conditions for recreation activities. banks or may present a risk to public viability of the defence, where Work is carried out by the Agency safety. There is a need to investigate they are considered to cause an to monitor the patterns of sediment impacts of recreation on flood banks and unsatisfactory level of damage to movement around the coast to gain a to establish guidelines for appropriate the integrity of the defences or better understanding of processes taking recreational use to allow recreation to where the safety of users is place. In carrying out coastal capital be promoted where appropriate. This compromised. schemes Environmental Assessments is currently being addressed through are carried out which include coastal the Agency's own research and 3. Provision for disabled access will processes and possible changes. development programme. be made where appropriate on flood walls. However flood walls may not always be suitable for Recommendation Recommendations disabled access and assessment • Environmental Assessments for • To investigate the impact of of suitability will be made on coastal capital works should include recreation on flood banks relating a site by site basis. screening for potential impacts on to riverine, estuarine and coastal recreational activities and where waters and to establish guidelines 5.9.4 Capital schemes possible action taken to minimise for appropriate recreational use. the effects and identify recreational To produce guidelines on design, Capital schemes are carried out by all opportunities and enhancements. construction, enhancement, functions of the Agency and may provide mitigation and management for ideal opportunities for the provision of recreational use of flood banks. recreation facilities. A recent example is PRINCIPLE where recreation has successfully been The Agency has a duty to take • Recreation organisations are to incorporated into an Agency, Water account of recreation in all its be encouraged to provide detailed Resources capital scheme on the River functions. Opportunities for information regarding sites used Medina at Shide, Isle of Wight. The recreation provision will be to enable consultation on scheme involved the demolition of an highlighted at the earliest stage proposed works. old concrete structure, previously used in Capital Scheme projects. to measure river flows, and recycled • Wider consultation on the Annual materials were used to form a two flood defence maintenance stage river designed to benefit wildlife programme in the area to include in addition to use of the redundant recreation users in each Area. brick instrumentation hut being used as a roost for bats and barn owls. An interpretation board was designed and

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5.10 Countryside proj ects Arun Valley Project. The Cuckmere River falls within the Sussex Downs AONB and PRINCIPLE A number of river and water related much of the nature conservation and Countryside projects are supported by The Agency will seek to support recreation management and promotion the Agency and other organisations in Countryside Projects to improve and is carried out through the Sussex Downs Southern Region. promote nature conservation and Conservation Board. The Western Rother recreation on river catchments in the Where Countryside projects have been in Sussex is an area of high conservation region where a need is identified. set up with the Agency as one of the value and promotion of recreation is not funding partners, valuable work for set as a priority. In consideration of improvement and promotion of nature provision of a further countryside project 5.11 Estuary and Harbour conservation and recreation has been in Sussex, the River Adur would be a Management Plans carried out in river catchments. priority continuing work of a project A number of Estuary Management Plans Countryside projects are seen to provide initiated in 1979. and Harbour plans have been produced a valuable link to the local community. and are on-going in the Region such as A number of projects in the Region 5.10.3 Hampshire Area the Medway Estuary and Swale Manage­ are listed below, although this list is In Hampshire there are the Isle of Wight ment Plan, Medina Management plan not exhaustive. AONB Project and the East Hampshire and Langstone Harbour plan. AONB Project which promote informal The Agency would not expect to lead on 5.10.1 Kent Area recreation activities. In addition the estuary or harbour plans unless it is the Provision for Countryside River projects Solent Forum is also supported by the Harbour Authority, although recreation in Kent is extensive with the Agency Agency to address economic, expertise will be offered where contributing to the following projects: environmental and social issues. In consideration of a further countryside appropriate as part of a multi-functional North West Kent Countryside Project/ project in Hampshire, the Eastern Yar on Agency input. Darent Valley Enhancement Project, the Isle of Wight would be considered. Medway River Project, Kentish Stour PRINCIPLE Countryside Project, Romney Marsh Countryside Project and the Cliffe Recommendation The Agency will assist with recreation input into Estuary Management Plans Countryside Project. • Priority will be given to the River as they provide a good fora to Adur, Sussex and Eastern Yar, Isle of There are an additional number of discuss economic, environmental Wight, in consideration of a further projects operating in Kent Area including and social issues affecting estuarine Countryside Projects in the Areas. the Rye Bay Project and White Cliffs and coastal areas. Countryside project There are also a number of AONB projects in Kent including the Kent High Weald 5.12 Canals - management Countryside Project and restoration

Used mainly for informal recreational 5.10.2 Sussex Area activities, the canals in the Region are In general the rivers within Sussex Area a valuable resource. have good provision of Countryside projects to carry out recreation work 5.12.1 Royal Military Canal with local people. There are presently In Kent, the Royal Military Canal (RMC) two River Countryside projects supported is perhaps the best known and most by the Agency and other organisations, extensively used. The RMC is unique namely the Ouse Valley Project and the

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to Southern Region canals as it was in a manner to sustain the fishery. The Chichester Harbour. The Chichester originally built as a defensive structure, Agency is presently looking at the issue Canal Society together with other not a navigation. Today it is managed as of water supply and management. partners has been active in restoring the an asset for recreation by a number of canal to its present state where it organisations including the Agency, provides a valuable recreational resource Recommendation Shepway District Council and the for the district. The canal is currently • Review of RMC agreement to National Trust. As an historical structure, used by the Society's trip boat, canoeists consider feasibility of powered craft the canal is designated a Scheduled and rowers. The canal towpath is fully in addition to manually propelled Ancient Monument and for its open and is heavily used both by local craft to navigate on the RMC. conservation interest part of the canal people and visitors to the area. Angling is designated SSSI and SNCI. is also provided for along much of the length of the canal and an active events 5.12.2 Thames and Medway programme ensures that the canal and Canal its basin, near the centre of Chichester The Thames and Medway Canal is a remain a focus for recreation in the area. former navigation from Gravesend to The restoration of the canal as a fully the River Medway in Kent. Much of the navigable waterway is supported by canal is now derelict though a canal many agencies in the county. There restoration association has been active are however, a number of issues which for many years and has been able to need to be addressed before this can be restore some sections back to water. A In a recent public enquiry, the Inspector achieved: Two low level road crossings partnership of organisations, including found in favour of a continuous footpath present major obstacles to navigation. the Agency, supported the preparation of along the length of one bank of the These would need to be raised or a feasibility study to look at restoring the canal which will further extend its use for replaced by removable bridges. The four canal to water. Issues include concerns recreation. The Agency leases coarse locks on the canal also need restoring over the structural integrity of the canal, fishing to angling clubs on sections of and the existing reeds beds, which the availability of a sustained water the canal and makes a limited number provide a home for many wildlife species, supply and the difficulty of disposing of of permits available for canoeing. The would need to be replaced. Perhaps the the waste material, some of which is possibility of further allowing a limited biggest issues facing the restoration of thought to be contaminated, currently number of powered craft to navigate infilling part of the original canal. A along the RMC should be investigated railway is constructed over the top of the taking into account all other interests. eastern end and some development has

Current issues on the canal concern occurred over sections at the western water quality, water supply and end near Gravesend. At the western end management. The canal acts as a near Denton an open stretch of the canal drainage channel in wet weather and is still present. The open stretch of canal as a feeder in drier weather to maintain at the western end has recently been water levels in Romney and Walland extended by opening up an adjacent Marshes. The management of the water section of channel through the infill supply to the canal results in variable through an enhancement scheme. this canal is funding. Bids for lottery water levels which affect the quality funding have so far been unsuccessful of the fishery and weed growth in the 5.12.3 Chichester Canal but even without navigation along its canal, and thus the angling interests. In Sussex, the four miles of the whole length the canal provides many Weed is cut to increase the capacity Chichester Canal link the city with recreational opportunities for anglers, of the canal for flood defence purposes

41 Water Related Recreation Strategy

canoeists, cyclists, walkers and rowers. structures along its route cannot be These activities and opportunities to relocated. All of the above are dependent Recommendation promote them should continue to be on the availability funding and, like the • Support investigations of possible explored alongside efforts to further Chichester Canal, the Wey and Arun further use of the Titchfield Haven open the canal to boat traffic. has also been unsuccessful in a recent Canal for recreation, such as lottery application. canoeing activities. 5.12.4 Wey and Arun Canal

The Wey and Arun Canal formerly 5.12.5 Itchen Navigation Canal provided a navigable link between the PRINCIPLE River Wey, in Surrey, and the River Arun, The Itchen Navigation Canal lies adjacent Canals in the Region in their present in West Sussex. Today the canal is in to the River Itchen from Winchester to state are recognised as a recreational multiple ownership and much of it has Woodmill, Southampton. The Canal was resource and valuable green been infilled. The Wey and Arun Canal originally built for navigation purposes corridors. Canal restoration is Trust have restored sections of the and sections are currently used for supported in principle but the case canal and the Wey South Path traces as rowing and canoeing activities. There of each canal needs to be assessed far as possible the former route of the is no public right of navigation on the individually and support for navigation. A trip boat operates on one canal. A long distance footpath the additional restoration will be given of the restored sections of the canal and Itchen way traces the canal footpath. providing aims are environmentally accessible reaches of the towpath are sustainable particularly in terms popular with walkers. The continuing 5.12.6 Titchfield Haven Canal of water resources and subject restoration of the canal is dependent on This canal in Hampshire is situated to eligibility criteria for the resolution of several major issues: the adjacent to the River Meon. The canal collaborative projects. securing of adequate water supplies; the was originally built for navigation cooperation of landowners along the purposes but now not used extensively route, the possibilities for locating new for recreation activities. routes for the canal where more recent 6. Recreation Activities Discussion

6.1 Walking The Environment Committee Report on The Impact of Leisure Activities'2 states that walking is the commonest form of active recreation in the countryside. Most walking is short-distance and local with an increase in longer-distance walking. 216 Million visits (37 % of all visits) made were for walking or rambling, according to the UK Day visits survey, 1993.2J 90 million visits were made to the seaside or coast.

Participation in walking may be part of club activities with organisations such as the Ramblers Association or of a more informal nature.

There are a number of River Valley but for game and coarse angling, Walks in the Region, some of which are Recommendation perhaps the most reliable data can be promoted by the Countryside Projects found in the recent Agency rod licence • A list of publications available for and local authorities. These include the sales figures: National statistics indicate water related walks should be Medway Valley Walk, Stour Valley Walk that almost 1 million coarse fishing compiled and updated. in Kent and walks around inland water licences and 34,000 game licences were bodies such as Swanbourne Lake. sold for the year 1995/96. A Review of Proposals for a walk adjacent to the angling carried out for the National Rivers Royal Military Canal have recently been PRINCIPLE Authority in 1994 indicated that the accepted. A large number of guided walk Further opportunities should number of anglers who had been fishing leaflets related to the water environment, be sought and provision made in the preceding two years as 3.27 for inland and coastal waters, are to increase walking opportunities million.2' Angling is a recreational activity currently available from a number of adjacent to inland and coastal waters. which appeals to people from all social different sources. Long distance walking classes and to all ages. may also take place on National Trails in the Region and on the extensive Rights The Agency is responsible for licensing of Way network. 6.2 Angling and regulating coarse and game fishing. Angling is one of most popular outdoor Fishing for sea fish does not require pursuits in the UK and includes the anglers to obtain a licence from the disciplines of coarse, game and sea Agency. Participation may be as part of a fishing. Estimates for actual numbers club, competitive angling for specimen participating vary widely between sources fish or quantity of fish, or as a popular

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informal activity to enjoy the water side 6.2.2 Inland waters excellent facilities for the beach angler. environment. The headlands, spits and points as well The Region offers a vast range of fishing as harbour walls, piers and groynes are opportunities from the large slow waters important features for land based sea 6.2.1 Provision in Southern of the Medway to the fast flowing chalk anglers. Boat angling off the coast is also Region stream rivers of Hampshire. The rivers significant, ranging from the smallest of In Southern Region almost 75,000 coarse Test and Itchen in Hampshire are private boats to commercial charter licences were sold and more than 2,000 renowned for their trout fishing and the vessels taking groups out to distant people bought game licences, to fish for lower reaches of both are also notable offshore 'marks'. salmon and migratory trout, in salmon fisheries. Rivers in Sussex and 1995/96." Kent are better known for their coarse The Agency remit for coarse and fisheries. There are also many still waters migratory fish species means that less The number of coarse and game angling in the area which provide for both the is known about beach and sea angling clubs gained from the Southern Region game and coarse angler. Many of the activities. In general access to the coast survey 1995/96 is as given below: headwater streams in the Region are is easier than that to inland waters known for their stocks of wild brown • Hampshire/Isle of Wight 24 and rivers and usually there is no trout, while in the middle and lower river • Sussex 63 cost involved. reaches, coarse fishing predominates. • Kent 58 The Great Stour estuary in particular is The figures above only partially illustrate nationally renowned for its coarse fishery. the significance of angling activity in the The Royal Military Canal and Wallers Region. In addition many anglers travel Haven are popular venues for match from other parts of the country to take anglers. The majority of waters in the advantage of the fishing opportunities Region are managed by Angling Clubs offered. This includes a significant with others operated as commercial weekend influx from outlying urban day ticket waters. areas including London. Principle locations for coarse and Commercial fisheries play a significant game fishing are given in Appendices 6.2.4 Public free fishing role in the provision of angling 3-8 for Hampshire, Sussex and Kent A number of public or free fishing sites opportunities. There are forty three Areas, as obtained by the Agency are provided in the Region. Free fishing commercial coarse fisheries and thirty Recreation Survey. waters are defined within this strategy as four commercial game fisheries in the areas where fishing is permitted by the Region. There are also many angling owner without the need for an angler clubs offering season and day tickets to Recommendation to belong to a club or purchase a day the casual angler visiting their waters. • Promotion of coarse fishing fishing ticket. An Agency rod licence is particularly on common ponds required, by anyone aged 12 years or in and around large areas of over, regardless of where fishing takes population. place. At present there are currently few free fishing waters reflecting perhaps the fact that most riparian land in the Region 6.2.3 Beach and Sea angling and associated fishing rights are in

There are over 150 Sea Angling Clubs private ownership. It is recognised in Southern Region affiliated to the ' that fishing, as with most other National Federation of Sea Anglers, activities, has a cost associated with NFSA. (NFSA, July 1997). The 1100 km both the provision of facilities and of coastline in Southern Region provides the management of the fishery.

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Clubs and commercial fisheries could Recommendations benefit their sport by making links with Recommendations schools and colleges to provide not only • The Agency, local authorities and • To encourage clubs and commercial an introduction to fishing but also a local angling organisations should organisations to invest in the long structure within which young people can work together to identify further term future of their sport by continue to take part in angling. Other opportunities for the development promoting opportunities for young organisations may be able to support this of free fishing adjacent to areas of people in particular to participate activity through the provision of free settlement. Remaining areas of free in angling. To encourage clubs to fishing opportunities in sites near centres fishing should be appropriately retain or form junior angler sections of population to provide safe, accessible managed and signed. and to send available information fishing locations. These could cater not about these clubs to the Agency. • Public free fishing areas should be only for junior anglers but for those with made available to less able anglers. reduced mobility - as many club waters • Agency publications such as "News in the Region are often only accessible Reels for Anglers" should include to those with cars and the ability to articles relating to other aspects of 6.2.5 Promotion of angling walk some distance, often over rough recreational activities to promote ground in order to fish. Angling is one of the most popular better understanding between users. sports, however, a national decrease 'Fishing in the South'26 is a free of 1,012 700 in the number of people publication which is produced by fishing has been noted from 1980 to Southern Region Agency and includes 6.2.6 Code of conduct 1994.24 Anglers are concerned about this lists of public free fishing areas, and a for anglers general decline in numbers participating large number of day ticket waters. In Many good practices have been drawn in the sport and are keen to reverse addition facilities for disabled people are together into a Code of Conduct for recent trends in order to sustain the included. This publication is regularly Specialist Coarse Anglers prepared by future of their sport. updated and is sent out on request. the Specialist Anglers Conservation

Increased competition from a number of 'News Reels for Anglers'27 is a Regional Group (SACG).2* This was first published 'new' sports and activities available for Fisheries publication which is sent to in April 1997. This Code is supported young people, parental concerns about those interested in Agency Fisheries by a number of organisations including safety, a shortage of free fishing sites, activities. This includes articles and the Agency and the National Federation and lack of information about clubs with information relating to current issues of Anglers. junior sections are all factors which may and is available on request. be contributing to the decline in young Recommendation people coming into the sport. • Wide distribution and availability of The Governing bodies for angling have the Code of Conduct for specialist initiated campaigns such as 'Take a coarse anglers, prepared by the Friend Fishing', 'Give Angling a Go' and Specialist Anglers Conservation 'National Fishing Week' to encourage Croup (SACC). Agency Fisheries new anglers but there is also a role for Byelaws, Southern Region and other organisations in supporting this other local byelaws to be made recreational activity. Agency fisheries widely available to anglers. officers also assist in the promotion of angling through talks, presentations and campaigns outlined here and raising awareness of Agency Fisheries activities.

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These include mountain biking, touring 6.3.3 Design and location PRINCIPLE and road racing. Mountain bikes offer of cycle routes Angling should be promoted and the opportunity to cover all terrain with Although recreational cycling is the remaining areas of free fishing touring and road racing in general becoming more popular in the Region, should be protected for use by the requiring harder surfaces. the volume of traffic on many roads casual angler. prevents many people from enjoying 6.3.2 Provision in this healthy and inexpensive activity. Southern Region There is a demand for more safe, In Southern Region there are a number traffic free, routes for cyclists. One of excellent recreational routes - these recommendation of the Rural White include the South Downs Way (from Paper is that there should be routes Winchester, Hampshire to Eastbourne linking towns and cities with the wider in East Sussex), Cuckoo Trail, Centurion countryside. The waterside environment Way , Cycle route around Bewl Water, frequently presents opportunities for Kent, Downs Link, and routes on the Isle such cycle routes: rivers providing of Wight and New Forest. However only natural links between towns, villages a number of these are near or cross and the open countryside. water and further opportunities may Several issues relating to the be available for some waterside routes. development of more recreational cycle 6.3 Cycling routes in the Region, particularly in the waterside environment, have emerged. Nationally there has been an increase in Recommendations Firstly, there is concern that the recreational cycling due to a number of • Cycling routes alongside rivers, waterside environment is hazardous factors including the introduction of the inland waters and the coast should to cyclists. This issue can be addressed mountain bike, increased leisure time be considered and provided where through appropriate design and and a greater interest in cycling as an conflicts with other interests can management of cycle routes. environmentally friendly form of be adequately resolved. transport. As an indication, 20 million • Regard should be taken of socio­ people owned bicycles in 1994 and economic impacts on rural Recommendations around 2.5 million new bikes are sold communities and where possible each year (Bicycle Association, 1994). • The design and construction of cycle routes and facilities should The UK Government is committed to recreational cycle routes should be located to increase links to growth in cycling through initiatives such reflect the character of the local rural areas. as the National Cycling Strategy. environment and include adequate safety measures to take account of SUSTRANS (Sustainable Transport) and • Further investigation of the the waterside environment. the National Cycle Network initiative feasibility of cycle ways adjacent to will make a significant contribution or connecting sections of waterways 9 The relevant organisations to the provision for cycling. A national such as the Sussex River Ouse, from should work together to promote Agency policy is currently being Newhaven to Lewes and River Arun, recreational cycling through the developed for Recreational Cycling. Littlehampton to Arundel should provision of good signage, self be made. guided trails and other leaflets. 6.3.1 Cycling activities There are a number of different types of cycling activities including both competitive forms and informal cycling. Water Related Recreation Strategy

6.3.4 Use of bikes ‘off-road’ most significant include the DETR (Department of Transport, Environment Recommendations There have been a number of complaints and the Regions) National Cycling about the use of mountain bikes 'off • It is recommended that the Strategy, the National Cycle Network road'. Countryside Commission have Agency supports Sustrans by: (NCN), pioneered by SUSTRANS cycling carried out research which showed that charity, and a National Byway created i. Supporting the National 45 per cent of cyclists preferred to use by the private sector and Countryside development of a Memorandum quiet lanes rather than cycle off road Commission "Greenways". A strategic of Understanding (MoU) with (Countryside Commission, 1994). approach to input and support of SUSTRANS which should guide A booklet 'Gearing Up' has recently cycling schemes is therefore needed. working on a Regional level. been published by the Countryside The English Sports Council has produced Commission in partnership with ii Integrating the National Cycle a development plan from which the Volvo Cars to encourage safe and Network into LEAPS where the South East cycling Forum was formed. responsible cycling in the countryside, trail is alongside rivers or coasts. aimed at young cyclists and young iii Where appropriate, developing mountain bikers. National Cycle Network land under Agency control as part A number of areas in the Region It is recommended that the Agency of the National Cycle Network. responds to National Cycle Network presently offer cycle trail opportunities Proposals in the following way: for mountain bikes on a range of terrains. PRINCIPLE One example is at Friston Forest, near The first point of contact for SUSTRANS Cycling will be encouraged on Seven Sisters Country Park. proposals should be the Regional designated bridle ways or cycle Recreation Officer, who will liaise routes or where there is permission 6.3.5 Potential Conflicts with the relevant Area Conservation from the landowner and where and Recreation Staff and Area staff from Cycling may conflict with other there is no detrimental impact on other functions as appropriate. Support legitimate recreational activities near the environment. Provision for water such as walking and angling. Such should be provided by Regional Staff further appropriately sited cycling potential conflict is frequently avoided from Legal and Estates departments routes, linking waterside areas , will through good signing and the creation as required and requested. be sought in the Region, taking of either parallel or shared use paths. into account other interests. The Agency endorses the support given Landscape and conservation interests by the National Rivers Authority (NRA) may also appear threatened by proposals to SUSTRANS in June 1995, prior to for cycle routes. This is partly due to the 6.4 Horse riding the Millenium bid: common misconception that cycle The Environment Committee report, Support will be given on a site by site routes by definition are urban in February 1995, states that riding is a basis where the NRA is able to provide character, requiring the use of black traditional activity which is growing a cycle route on land in its ownership or or red tarmacadam and blue highway in popularity. Much riding is noted to with the consent of the land owner and signs. While this might be true of take place near to where people live.’2 commuter routes, different design planning authority on river sites or where and construction standards may capital works are being undertaken for Public Bridle ways and byways and roads be applied for recreational paths. other NRA purposes. are used by horse riders in addition to 'riding by licence'. The British Horse 6.3.6 Cycling Initiatives Society promotes the welfare, care and use of the horse and pony and has an A number of new initiatives and schemes Access & Rights of Way Department. are taking place across the UK all aiming Toll rides, where horse riders pay to encourage the use of bicycles. The

47 Water Related Recreation Strategy

landowners for use of land, offer The generic term 'canoeing' is used to for Hampshire, Sussex and Kent Areas opportunities for riders and also describe any activity involving with any respectively. for income for farmers. small craft propelled by a paddle, Provision, especially introduction to the including the use of both canoes and Agency issues in Southern Region for activity, is primarily through the youth kayaks, although kayaking is the most Horse riding include those highlighted movement, primarily Scouts & Guides, popular aspect of the sport. Canoeists for use of flood banks in Section 5.9.3 and local clubs. In addition introduction are often referred to as 'paddlers' or in river and coastal areas and potential is made through schools and outdoor being involved in 'paddling' for use of Agency sites by horses. centres.

6.6.1 Canoe disciplines The Recreation Survey identified 71 6.5 Bathing canoe clubs in Southern Region. The There are a number of different canoeing majority of individual canoeists in the The extensive coastline in Southern disciplines which may be carried out Region who participate in informal Region is popular for bathing and competitively or more informally. canoeing are not thought to be affiliated paddling. Bathing is only covered here Each of the disciplines have different to any particular organisation or with regard to Agency responsibilities requirements and different issues governing body. Most clubs in the for water quality. In addition to the EC associated with them. These include: Designated Bathing Beaches outlined Region host at least one BCU tour in Section 4 there are numerous White water disciplines, denoted as all or event every year, and provide coastal sites used for bathing canoeing activities on rapids. Three the majority of the BCU Regional particularly in summer. forms of competitive 'white water' coaching development programme. disciplines are recognised namely slalom, By agreement with the Agency, BCU The main issue concerning bathers is rodeo and white water racing in addition members are licensed to use a number that of water safety and quality which to informal whitewater play boating. of Agency navigations. In Southern are covered in Section 5.3 and 5.4. Touring and expeditioning may be Region this agreement applies to carried out in coastal areas, known the River Medway Navigation. as sea kayaking, or on rivers or other inland waters often referred to as placid touring. The distances for touring may Flat water sites vary significantly but in general access The Region's extensive coastline and to large stretches of water is required. long tidal rivers such as the Arun, Adur The South of England is popular for surf and Stour provide a resource for touring canoeing. Marathon racing is a popular and paddling. Inland sites provide more long distance racing discipline. quiet conditions for training and introduction to the sport. 6.6.2 Provision, issues and Marathon canoe events are held around 6.6 Canoeing opportunities in Southern the Region such as the Medway The British Canoe Union (BCU) currently Region Marathon held by Maidstone Canoe estimates that there are over 45,000 Canoeing is a popular activity within Club. A general shortage of flat water, participants in BCU activities (October Southern Region. The major activities inland sites for introduction to the sport 1996). There are an additional significant in Southern Region include inland and and for sprint and marathon canoe number of canoeists who are not coastal disciplines of placid and sea training has been identified. members of the BCU and there are touring, marathon racing, surfing, and thought to be 1 million participants whitewater play boating/rodeo. Principle The shortage of flat water sites suitable in canoeing annually. locations for canoeing indicated in the for training could be addressed in the Region are given in Appendices 9 to 11 long term through the identification of

48 Water Related Recreation Strategy

recreation after use of mineral working Agency does not encourage the use of water courses and water bodies are in sites and in the short term through the weirs by canoes where the structures private ownership and permission must possible shared use of still waters with have not been designed or modified be obtained from the riparian owner. The other activities through zoning of for such use. The issue of safe use of general shortage of inland river canoeing water space or agreements relating instream structures is being addressed is due mainly to the limited areas of to seasonal use. by the Agency through a national public right of navigation even where research project, working with the BCU. waters are suitable for canoes and that Recommendation riparian owners in the Region have traditionally leased their river banks and • Explore potential for after use of Recommendations fishing rights to anglers. However there mineral working sites in the Region • To seek further white water may be opportunities for canoeists to use to become facilities for paddle opportunities in the Region. these stretches during angling close sports. Priority should be given to areas seasons or even on certain days of the for informal use near to existing week. Such arrangements exist in other canoe sites in addition'to support Whitewater sites Agency Regions, where negotiations for projects for formal facilities. Areas of white water are present in the between interested parties have resulted Region although there is a shortage of • The Agency should identify in access agreements between suitable sites. There is a need to seek opportunities for improvements landowners and canoeists. The BCU and promote further opportunities for canoeists at an early stage in issues guidance on the establishment of in the Region. Agency Capital Works schemes such agreements. The Agency endorses such as weir refurbishment. the use of access agreements as an In Hampshire, the Woodmill eg Sluice Weir Lock refurbishment effective means of achieving shared use Salmon Pool, on the River Itchen at on River Medway. of rivers and encourages their use. Southampton, provides some whitewater at certain states of tide, a proposed • Local canoe clubs and BCU On some tidal river reaches and other lottery project at Woodmill may result in Coaching Organisers should be sites where a right of navigation exists, the creation of a formal slalom course. included in initial consultations on facilities for launching canoes is often the implications or benefits of poor. This is true of most of the tidal In Kent, white water is present sluice or weir modifications. rivers in the Region. This means that downstream of weirs in particular on the users are unnecessarily restricted and River Medway at Yalding. Opportunities • Support and input into National that safety may be compromised. for canoeists are to be provided by R Si D investigating design Particular examples include the River Agency planned improvements at guidelines for the Safe use of Arun, where there are few launching Sluice Weir on the River Medway. Early In-Stream Structures. The Agency opportunities on the tidal section, and consultation and liaison between Flood will continue to promote safety at the Cuckmere River where launching Defence engineers and canoeists over weirs through its research frequently takes place directly from the design of a new weir structure have programme, through appropriate shown that a design solution which design measures and through meets river engineering requirements consultation with relevant and provides a recreational facility for organisations. canoeists can be produced.

Whitewater opportunities for canoeists 6.6.3 Opportunities for below weirs raises concerns about canoeists participants' safety at what are The majority of river waters available for potentially dangerous sites particularly canoeists are tidal waters which have a for the inexperienced canoeist. The public right of navigation. Elsewhere,

49 Water Related Recreation Strategy

the top of a steep flood bank. Provision Agency is the navigation authority of launching and landing points for PRINCIPLES are referred to in this document canoeing requires less infrastructure Access for informal, competitive, as "Agency navigation". than for many other activities and can white water and flat water canoeing Southern Region supports a significant often be achieved at relatively low should be encouraged, where the amount of inland boating, including a costs. The Agency is currently actively consent of the riparian owner has number of tidal navigation in addition pursuing appropriate design solutions been obtained. to the Agency Navigation on the River for two such access points on the Arun Organisations should work with Medway and the Harbour of Rye. and Cuckmere and it is hoped that canoeists and the BCU to improve these will provide a model for future access, facility provision and safety projects elsewhere. 6.7.2 Public rights for canoeists. of Navigation

Inland cruising is provided on a number • Recommendations 6.7 Inland Navigation of tidal river stretches where there is a • To continue to support canoeing public right of navigation. These include through the identification and 6.7.1 Navigable waters. the tidal waters of the Arun and Adur in promotion of suitable river launch Tidal rivers very often have a general West Sussex; the Ouse in East Sussex, points in the Region . public right of navigation extending Itchen and Hamble in Hampshire waters from the estuary to the tidal limit, • Promote canoe launch designs on on the Isle of Wight and the Stour and although there are exceptions. These the Rivers Arun and Cuckmere as Eastern Rother in Kent. On non-tidal waters shall be referred to throughout demonstration projects for possible reaches, with no navigation rights, the strategy as 'Tidal navigation'. On use elsewhere. permission to use watercraft must be tidal navigations in general waterborne obtained from the riparian owners. • Voluntary access agreements should activities are subject to the byelaws of be seen as an appropriate way local Harbour Authorities. In addition, The Agency recreation survey identified forward for canoeing organisations the Agency operates byelaws which a number of issues for inland boating in the Region to gain greater access relate to Flood Defence activities and in the Region including the general to inland rivers. The Agency act to limit speeding, on all stretches lack of access points to the water for supports the creation of more access of 'main' river. Power boating locations, smaller craft. This problem is common opportunities for waterside and as identified by the Agency Recreation throughout the Region. For example on water based recreation. Survey are given in Appendix 12. the navigable tidal reaches of the River Arun, the existing launching facilities A number of organisations are • Investigate possibility of producing are located many miles downstream of responsible nationally for the canoe publications for the Region popular cruising reaches. This, combined maintenance and management of through collaboration with Agency with the lack of visitor mooring sites at additional navigable waters which and BCU. Arundel and beyond, makes cruising include rivers and canals. These include for visiting craft extremely difficult. the Agency, British Waterways, Broads Authority and various other navigation A number of commercial hire boat authorities. The Agency currently operators are located within the undertakes operational activity in Region. These include hire of small respect of navigation in five of its rowing boats such as those on the Regions including lengths of the river River Arun and River Medway for Thames, the Medway, a number of informal boating and larger craft rivers in East Anglia, the Lower Derwent, which allow passengers to travel larger Market Weighton Canal, Dee Estuary distances along inland river stretches. and Harbour of Rye. Waters where the Water Related Recreation Strategy

6.7.3 Agency Navigation lockside sites to watch boats and other 6.7.7 Safety and Speed river activities. Medway Limits are set by byelaws to control the The Harbour of Rye is covered in further speeds of boats on navigable rivers. The Agency is the Navigation Authority detail in Section 5.8. The limits may differ between rivers for the River Medway which gives access and between different stretches of the to 31 km (19 miles) of the freshwater same river. The limits are set to safeguard Recommendations Medway above its tidal limit. The other river users, wildlife and bankside navigation starts at Allington Lock, near • Investigations should be made into vegetation as well as protecting river Maidstone and extends to the footbridge the feasibility of new navigations banks from erosion. immediately downstream of the Leigh or extensions of existing rights flood barrier just west of Tonbridge. of navigation. For Agency navigations and those controlled by British Waterways, a new Craft on the river are registered with the • Investigate need for promotional initiative, the Boat Safety Scheme, has Agency for a charge which is related to material for inland navigation been set up to minimise the risks of fire the length of the vessel. 819 annual opportunities in the Region and and explosion on boats and to reduce registrations were sold for powered produce information as appropriate. the risk of damage to the environment vessels in addition to over 1100 short This could include development from pollution. It is intended that this term registrations for both powered and of a clear map showing rivers in scheme will be introduced on the manual craft in 1996/97 on the Medway Southern Region with Tidal Agency's Medway Navigation subject to Navigation. Details regarding the Agency navigation and Agency navigation changes in byelaw legislation. In addition Medway Navigation can be obtained to include essential contact lists third party insurance is desirable for all from Kent Area Office and further details such as harbour authorities and boat owners to safeguard other users in regarding registration and charges from other relevant user groups as a using navigable waters. the Income Section, Regional Office, hand out for members of the public. Worthing. A booklet "A Guide to The • Relevant authorities, Agency works Medway Navigation" is available from Recommendations and consents must ensure that the Agency29. • Promote the Boat Safety Scheme navigation rights are protected. to all owners of craft on the Agency • Boat users should be consulted Medway Navigation in advance to ensure that any provision of of scheme implementation. recreational facilities that are those • The Agency should promote the required. Locations for increased requirement for Third party visitor moorings and launching insurance for inland navigation sites should be sought on those craft on Agency navigations. navigable rivers where a need has been identified.

• Riverside Agency land holdings PRINCIPLE should be promoted as facilities for Existing facilities for users of recreation users, such as Town Lock Tidal and Agency navigation and Allington on the Medway should be protected and Navigation. additional opportunities for

Navigations are not only used for • A directory of launching facilities inland navigation investigated. boating activities but also attract many available to the public in the Region more visitors along the banks and at should be compiled.10

51 Water Related Recreation Strategy

6.8 Sailing sailing activities and the number offering sailing facilities is low. Further facilities Recommendation The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) are needed for launching, landing and • To promote sailing as an activity is the National Governing Body for all berthing of craft. for all. boating disciplines including sailing, windsurfing and power boating (not Marinas and sailing clubs have including canoeing or rowing). developed in the Region and increasing 6.8.2 Environmental use and demand may conflict between Locations for dinghy sailing and yachting conditions the desire for further such developments activities in Southern Region have been Issues facing sailing activities in inland and the high conservation value of the identified from the survey. These are waters include availability of water of Region's estuaries, many of which have illustrated in Appendices 1 3, 14 and 15 sufficient depth. Water depth in lakes, been designated as Sites of Special for Hampshire, Sussex and Kent for example, may be reduced by silting Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and carry respectively. Dinghy and yachting of certain areas or by lack of water further designations under the European activities take place in both coastal areas especially in periods of low rainfall Habitats Directive. The growth in and on inland waters. The relatively or flow. yachting is indicated by the rapid sheltered waters around the coastline growth in mooring numbers which of the Region have been extensively have increased by 27% within the developed for all forms of sailing, with PRINCIPLE last 25 years, in the Solent.31 the Solent in the west and Medway Existing opportunities for sailing Estuary and Swale in the east being both inland and coastal of particular importance. The coastline Recommendation waters should be safeguarded. from Whitstable to Dover in Kent and • Greater use of larger inland water Participation for all should be from Dover to Selsey, in West Sussex, bodies can be made by owners encouraged through existing is generally more exposed and suitable offering leases to multiple water clubs and opportunities sought for more experienced users. users including sailing clubs. at water sports centres for all In developing such leases it is sections of the community. recognised that there may have to be a system of time or spacial zoning specified in the lease to Recommendation minimise conflict between • Where physical problems such as user groups. silting limit sailing activity in inland waters problems should be reviewed 6.8.1 Promotion and liaison by the relevant organisations and appropriate management taken. Sailing is an activity which can be carried out by users over a wide age range and is a popular activity for retired people. There is a need to promote sailing to all 6.9 Windsurfing and to continue to encourage young Windsurfing or sailboarding is an activity The Region has a large number of people into the sport such as through recognised by the English Sports Council manmade still waters including gravel the development of multi-sports centres and the RYA. In Southern Region it is pits and reservoirs. Several of the largest as evidence suggests that young people centred on coastal areas and on certain reservoirs and gravel pits, provide dinghy want to move from activity to activity32. designated inland waters. It is rapidly sailing through clubs, providing good increasing in popularity, with young conditions for tuition. Many gravel pits males dominating the activity. National are however too small for extensive participation was estimated at 0.6 million

52 Water Related Recreation Strategy

in 1988 (1.4% of population) and this is 6.10 Surfing 6.1 1.1 Perceived image expected to increase to 0.74 million Surfing is a water related activity o f PWC (1.8% of population), Leisure which takes place at a number of sites The use of PWCs is perceived as a Consultants, 1989.” around the south and south west coasts particularly noisy activity. Issues Of Southern Region is among the best areas of Britain. Areas used for surfing in problems with noise and speed of craft in the country for windsurfing and sailing Southern Region include West and East have been noted in the Region, for in part due to the wind conditions which Wittering and Brighton in Sussex and a example near Kingsferry Bridge, Swale, are suitable for a wide range of standards number of sites on the Isle of Wight and North Kent. Areas designated for PWC of participants. The Solent, for example, Hampshire and North East Kent. use should be located near to areas offers a relatively sheltered and safe of existing noise such as near to busy One of the main concerns of surfers is environment while the open coastline is roads and away from residential areas that of water quality, this issue has been widely used by the experienced. (RYA or habitats and species sensitive to raised by the pressure group Surfers Windsurfing Strategy, 1995).M The North noise disturbance. Against Sewage. Water Quality is covered Kent coast, in particular Whitstable, is in Section 5 of this strategy. Surf waves important for windsurfing in the Region. are produced as a result of particular The need to promote windsurfing to all combinations of weather conditions sections of the community is raised in and characteristics of the coast such as the Hampshire & Isle of Wight positions of rocks and reefs. Production Windsurfing development strategy.54 of waves may also be affected by any Depending on the level of expertise development or works which alter windsurfing can lead to considerable coastal processes of the area. contact with water and increased risk Coastal processes are discussed of water borne infection. This issue is again in Section 5. discussed in Section 5. Formal facilities An independent environmental Impact such as changing rooms and car parks 6.11 Personal Watercraft Assessment, 'Jetskis and Funcraft' was carried out on behalf of North West are also needed for windsurfing activities. (PWC) or “Jet Skis” Water 35. The results from the Personal Watercraft (PWC) include any Recommendation assessment indicate that further vessel referred to as a jet ski, wet bike provision should be made in locations • To promote and develop facilities or other similar description. PWCs are where intensive recreational activities to encourage participation in generally propelled by a jet engine and have already been promoted, such as windsurfing to all. steered by means of a handlebar system. water ski parks, in addition to recently created waters such as after use The Personal Watercraft Federation is one of quarries. PRINCIPLE governing body for the competitive use of PWCs or jet-skis as they are otherwise Further opportunities for jet Ski or PWC activities and Water known. The RYA has now adopted windsurfing, particularly on inland skiing activities are often wrongly the sport. sites will be identified and promoted. treated as one activity. Each activity has very different requirements Sites should be made available to all Coastal launch site locations include a and management. particularly for use by school groups number of sites in North Kent such as and activity centres. Whitstable, Herne Bay and Margate Participants in use of PWC activities and Eastbourne, Brighton and Worthing should receive necessary training for safe in Sussex use such as training courses run by BMIF.

53 Water Related Recreation Strategy

promoted by the availability of dry is the British Water Ski Federation Recommendation rowing facilities. Rowing has previously (BWSF). It is estimated that in 1989 there

• Sites in the Region suitable for been thought of as an activity taken were 400,000 participants nationally33 use of PWCs, such as away from up through public schools, but and that it is growing in popularity. The residential areas or habitats and opportunities and participation BWSF, Southern Regional Committee species sensitive to disturbance, is now being widened. development plan for waterskiiing guides should be identified. activities within the South, by In Southern Region, boat hire is available "addressing the needs of a rapidly at a number of locations including on expanding family sport".58 the Medway Navigation, on the River PRINCIPLE Arun and River Ouse in Sussex. 1. Use of PWC should be promoted 6.13.1 Availability of as a recreational activity in well Competitive rowing takes place on rivers suitable sites and inland waters and in coastal areas in managed designated areas Requirements for water skiing Southern Region. Provision is through which should be sited away from activities are primarily access to a long rowing clubs, schools and colleges. sensitive environmental sites and area of flat water with minimum width other recreation activities. The number of rowing clubs in Southern approximately 80m. Significant sites in the Region include Langstone Harbour, 2. PWC participants must follow Region identified from the Southern Chichester Lakes, West Sussex, Medway Codes of practice. Region survey includes Estuary and Lydd, Kent and on the Test • Hampshire & Isle of Wight 13 Estuary in Hampshire. A shortage of • Sussex 5 6.12 Rowing inland sites for training has been • Kent 6 identified in the Region. Appendix 19 Rowing is a popular recreational activity illustrates waterski sites in Southern which takes place on both navigable There is a requirement for further areas Region obtained from the Agency rivers, still waters and coastal waters. of flat water to be made available for Recreation Survey. Rowing includes boats available for hire rowing and for provision of associated and as a competitive sporting activity. changing facilities. In 1996 the Amateur Rowing Association Recommendation (ARA), the governing body for rowing Recommendation • Further opportunities should be in England, estimated over 15,000 • To identify further water areas sought for additional sites for individual members with a possible available for rowing, particularly waterskiiing provision in the Region. additional 30,000 affiliated through within cycling distances of schools. clubs. Rowing has been further 6.13.2 Cable tow

PRINCIPLE Cable tow is an alternative method

Additional areas for rowing will be for water skiing to that of being identified and promoted in suitable towed behind a boat. It is based on inland areas. an overhead cable system and allows several people to ski in a circuit at the same time. The possibilities of 6.13 Water skiing cable tow to increase opportunities for introducing people to the activity Water skiing requires generally large need to be developed in the Region. expanses of open flat water and takes place mainly on coastal sites or on large inland sites. The national governing body

54 Water Related Recreation Strategy

6.13.3 Perceived image 6.14.1 Provision, Issues and 6.14.3 Coastal sites water skiing Opportunities in Southern The extensive coastline of Southern The British Waterski Federation has Region Region provides close access to sea made significant efforts to improve the Dive locations identified in the diving for the large number of divers perceptions of its activity. New facilities Recreation survey are indicated on the within Southern Region in addition are recommended where these can be map in Appendix 20. Within the Region to those travelling to the coast from managed by a waterski club. there are a significant number of clubs. London or beyond the South East. The number of BSAC clubs are:

PRINCIPLE • Hampshire & Isle of Wight 21 Existing opportunities for Water • Sussex 10 skiing will be protected and Water • Kent 23 skiing will be promoted on further There are approximately 50 clubs with sites where conflicts with other the SAA South East Region with over interests can be adequately resolved. 1,000 members (this figure includes divers outside the Agency Southern 6.14 Sub Aqua Region). In addition there are a significant number of divers who are It is difficult to assess the number of Requirements for divers vary depending not affiliated to a sub aqua organisation. participants in sub aqua or SCUBA diving on the level of experience and individual Divers also visit the region to participate nationally or for the Region, as many interests. The Sussex and Hampshire in sub aqua activities from other areas coast line is particularly good for sub divers participate outside of a club of the country. structure. However the number of active aqua activities for a number of reasons. divers in Great Britain with the British The majority of diving takes place on the large number of divable wrecks arising Sub Aqua Club (BSAC) are estimated 6.14.2 Inland sites from the two world wars and the at 90,000 ( BSAC, January 1996). Sub A number of inland sites provide sub extensive seafaring activity of the English aqua is increasing in popularity with aqua opportunities in Southern Region. Channel although a number of beach the increase in the number of people These include Chatham docks; sites are used most typically for training travelling abroad with new opportunities Leybourne Lakes, Larkfield; Bewl Water, dives. Sussex has more wrecks off its to participate in sub aqua in warmer, near Tunbridge Wells in Kent Area, Oving coast than any other county in the UK clearer environments, the advances Lake, near Chichester West Sussex and with over 1000 wrecks located along the in equipment and number of Ardingly, East Sussex. Sub aqua activities Southern Coast.37 Waters off the South training schools. take place in rivers across the Region Coast have relatively good visibility, such as the River Medway, Kent. Inland The governing body recognised by the depending on weather conditions. There dive sites are of interest in their own English Sports Council is BSAC although is also a varied geology with associated right and are valuable training sites for there are a number of organisations habitat types such as hard rock and chalk novices and when there are less suitable involved in SCUBA diving including cliff reefs which support various conditions for diving at coastal sites. the Sub-aqua Association (SAA) and underwater life. PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors). Recommendation 6.14.4 Access to the Sea • To seek the provision of further Use of sites further from the coast inland sites and training facilities necessitates the use of boats and there is for sub aqua activities in a need for slipway access at all states of Southern Region. the tide. Commonly used launch sites

55 Water Related Recreation Strategy

include Brighton, Shoreham-by-Sea, undertakes ecological surveys at marine signals used in SCUBA diving and to Eastbourne and Littlehampton in Sussex sites with the aid of volunteer divers. act appropriately. Area, Rye in Kent Area and various locations along the Hampshire coast Recommendation Recommendations in the Solent. • Raise awareness of archaeological • Safe codes of practice should be and conservation importance in encouraged through clubs. Recommendation marine sites. To encourage • Promote use of International flag 'A' • To identify and support the involvement of volunteer divers in to be used by all divers and use of provision of suitable access facilities initiatives to investigate marine Surface Marker Buoys (SMBs) to in addition to existing sites. archaeological sites and ecological aid location. surveys with organisations such as • Promote recognition of signals used 6.14.5 Archaeology English Heritage and Marine Conservation Society. in sub aqua activities by other users Coastal Archaeology includes a variety and promote good practice. of remains such as harbours, ship wrecks, sea defences and submerged 6.14.7 Safety settlements. A number of ship wrecks 6.14.8 Fishing nets and line A number of the issues relating to sub are protected by the Protection of aqua have already been covered in Problems which may be faced by divers Wrecks Act, 1973, around the coastline earlier guiding sections such as Water include the presence of discarded fishing of Southern Region, such as HMS Safety and Access to the water. Sub aqua nets and lines left in water. Due to the Hazardous off Bracklesham Bay, as its name indicates is an immersion nature of new longer lasting synthetic West Sussex, designated in 1986. sport and so risks from water borne materials any discarded nets or line will persist in the water environment Amateur divers have assisted in infection is likely to be higher than many substantially longer than any discovery, location and survey of a other activities. A large number of diving rope equivalent. number of ship wrecks such as the Mary activities are carried out at a distance Rose, in Spit Sand Ford, Portsmouth.*6 from the coast and contact with Trained divers are involved in archeo­ discharges from long sea outfalls Recommendation may be more frequent. logical survey work with organisations • Need to raise awareness regarding stlch as the Hampshire and Wight Trust Additional safety issues also arise from potential danger associated with for Maritime Archaeology and National- use of navigable waters for sub aqua fishing nets and line in waters used Nautical Archeological Society. activities. There is a clear need for divers for diving and encourage good codes of practice. There is a need to raise awareness of the to be easily located by other users and importance of sites of archaeological for codes of practice to be followed. heritage and to encourage divers to Permission must be obtained for PRINCIPLES assist in location and have regard for sub-aqua activities in navigable waters archaeological interest of wrecks. from the relevant authority. In general 1. Further suitable inland sites for those involved in sub aqua activities are SCUBA diving will be investigated well trained and there is a greater need and promoted. 6.14.6 Marine Conservation to educate other users to recognise Seasearch is a project initiated by the 2. SCUBA diving wili not be Marine Conservation Society (MCS). supported in areas where safety is The Sussex Seasearch project has been compromised. All divers should supported by the Agency, East Sussex follow Codes of practice and County Council, West Sussex County observe local byelaws. Council and English Nature and

56 Water Related Recreation Strategy

6.15 Additional activities Management Plans are not considered The Agency Southern Region Recreation necessary all interests for each site will Survey identified a total of 18 Water A number of additional activities are be balanced and recreation activities sports Centres in the Region. These are noted in the Region. Model boating assessed. shown in Appendix 21. These water activities are carried out in the Region sports and activity centres are situated on for example, by Canterbury Model Boat Wildfowling may cause a number of areas of enclosed inland waters such as Club at ponds in Kent and at Hove problems such as the use of lead shot, Bewl in Kent and at river locations such Lagoon, Sussex. New activities such as disturbance and direct lost of birds. as the Rivers Adur and Arun in Sussex Aqua-golf have appeared in locations Where it is considered that Wildfowling and on the coast for example at Calshot such as Leybourne Lakes, Kent, which activities carried out on Agency land Hampshire. Many are supported by local involves golf driving over the lakes. holdings are having a detrimental impact authorities but for many, security of on nature conservation interests shooting River Festivals are held on a number funding is a continued problem. rights will not be exercised in renewal of rivers including the Medway River of leases. Safety at Water sport Centres is now Festival and Stour River Festival held guided by The report of water sports, annually. These often include a number safety working group.” of different activities such as bath races. 6.17 Water sports Activity An annual raft race is held on the River Centres Ouse in East Sussex. Dragon boating Recommendations A large number of water sports and is another activity carried out in the activity centres are present throughout • Such centres should continue to Region. On the River Medway, for the country. These may be run and be supported, particularly by local example, dragon boating is carried funded in a number of different ways authorities. Further opportunities out by Tonbridge Canoe Club mainly such as by local authorities or run for the creation of new centres, in the summer months. commercially. Such centres are where there is demand, and capacity should be sought in Kite flying is also carried out in the frequently used by schools and organised association with local clubs. Region, this may be informally or as group visits, and they provide an important facility to enable youngsters part of a more formal sporting activity • Operators of centres need to and others to experience a range of for example, where buggies are used publicise further the valuable role activities at one location, such as 'taster' with kites such as at Camber Sands, > these centres play in introducing a days. Two thirds of all centres surveyed Kent Area. range of water sports to young in the National Youth Water sports Audit, people and others who may not 1996“ offered taster or have a go otherwise have the opportunity. 6.16 Wildfowling sessions for young people. These sessions Within this strategy, Wildfowling is only allow young people to try a variety of considered in the context of Agency activities without the need for an PRINCIPLE land interests. The Agency has inherited individual to contact several clubs. Water sports outdoor centres a number of land holdings on which After participation in a 'taster' session it are a valuable resource for the Wildfowling rights have been issued. is important that people are encouraged introduction to water related On priority sites, Site Management Plans to continue a particular activity, through activities and should be given will identify issues and interests relevant participation in a club. The concept of continued support. Further to each site, including those relating to sporting continuum from informal opportunities for additional recreational activities. When site leases participation through regular centres should be considered come up for renewal decisions regarding participation to sporting excellence and supported. future management and use of sites will is supported by the English Sports be made based on the Site Management Council which aims to form closer Plan recommendations. Where Site links with clubs to aid continuity.

57 7. The Way Forward — Implementation of the Strategy

Policies and recommended actions contained within this strategy will be Recommendations PRINCIPLE taken forward in the production of an That the Recreation Strategy should: The strategy should be used by all Action Plan document, both the relevant organisations, including : • guide recreation input into and Consultation draft and Action plan review of LEAPS by the Agency Environment Agency document will act to guide those English Sports Council (Southern involved in planning, prodding and • be used as a reference document by and South East Regions) managing recreation in the water local authorities in producing Local Countryside Commission environment. Implementation of plans and in making decisions on Local Authorities recommended actions and policies is planning applications. Recreation clubs important if action is to be taken on the Governing bodies of Sport ground. Information contained within • guide day to day Agency activities in the document should become integral all departments, particularly in the to activities of the Agency. Fisheries, Ecology and Recreation department. The document should also guide future work in Southern Region, identification of opportunities and partnerships.

• Link with other initiatives/strategies from other organisations.

58 Water Related Recreation Strategy

Glossary

Access 2000 Initiative promoted by the Country SCUBA diving Diving with use of Self Contained Landowners Association (CLA) to Underwater Breathing Apparatus. encourage landowners to make more Site of Special Statutory site designated by English land available for recreation, including Scientific Interest Nature or the Countryside Council for waterside sites. (SSSI) Wales for their biological interest of at Area of Statutory site designated by the least Regional importance; or their earth Outstanding Countryside Commission/ science of at least national importance. Natural Beauty Countryside Commission (AONB) Special Area of Designated under the habitats directive of Wales Conservation (directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation (SAC) Environmentally Statutory site designated by the of natural habitats and of wild fauna and Sensitive Areas Agriculture departments in conjunction flora.) (ESA) with English Nature, the Countryside Special Protection Statutory site designated by the DoE for Council for Wales, Countryside Area (SPA) their international importance under the Commission, English Heritage, CADW EC birds Directive (79/409/EEC on the and the Department of the Environment conservation of wild birds) Transport and the Regions (DETR).

Sustainability "Development that meets the needs of Local Nature Statutory site declared by local the present, without compromising the Reserve (LNR) authorities in consultation with ability of future generations to meet their English Nature or the Countryside own needs" (Brundtland Report, 1987) Council for Wales.

Sustrans Cycling charity working for sustainable National Nature Statutory site declared by English Nature transport, pioneering the National Cycle Reserve or the Countryside Commission for Wales Network (NCN). for their biological or earth science interest of national importance.

Ramsar site Statutory site designated by the DoE/Welsh Office for their international importance for wetland communities. Water Related Recreation Strategy

References

1. Countryside Commission, English Sports Council 1 3. Cartwright (1991), Recreational Waters: A health Risk for and Agency (May 1997), Draft Memorandum of the Nineties? In Morris, R., Alexander, L. M., Wyn-Jones, Understanding. P. and Sellwood, J. Editors (1991), Proceedings of the UK Symposium on Health-related water Microbiology. 2. Department of the Environment (1989), Code of Practice for Conservation, Access and Recreation. 14. Environment Agency (1996), Bathing Water Quality in England and Wales in 1996. A summary report. 3. English Sports Council and Countryside Commission. Good practice in the planning and management of sport 15. National Rivers Authority (May 1994), Internal Report. and active recreation in the Countryside. The Microbiological Quality of Recreational Waters in NRA Southern Region. 4. The North Kent Marshes Initiative (june 1997), Medway Estuary and Swale management Plan. Consultation Draft. 16. Environment Agency ( September 1995), Guidance for the Control of Invasive plants near watercourses. 5. MAFF, The Welsh Office, Association of District Councils, English Nature, National Rivers Authority, (May 1995) 1 7. Fieldfare Trust & Sports Council (November 1995), Shoreline Management Plans. A guide for Coastal Countryside Factfile, for People with Disabilities. defence authorities. 18. Environment Agency (1997) Internal paper. 6. Countryside Commission (1996), A living Countryside, Disability Discrimination Act 1995 - Implications Our Strategy for the next Ten Years. for the Recreation function.

7. English Nature, Countryside Commission & English 19. National Rivers Authority. Recreation Facility Heritage (1996) The character Map of England; Design manual. landscape, wildlife and natural features. 20. Chichester Harbour Conservancy &SE Regional Sports 8. Environment Agency (May 1995) River Catchment Council. A survey of recreation in Chichester Harbour, data report. Land & Water.

9. OPCS/HMSO (1988/89), Leisure Day Visits in 21. Environment Agency (1997), Creen Shoots, Our vision Great Britain. for Environmental Education.

10. Countryside Recreation Network, (1996) UK Day Visits 22. Environment Agency (1997). Mariners Guide to Rye. Survey 1994, CRN Countryside Recreation Network. 23. Countryside Recreation Network, UK Day Visits Survey 11. Badman T(1996), Regional Strategies for Coastal 1993, CRN Countryside Recreation Network. Recreation, in Coastal Recreation Management. 24. National Rivers Authority (November 1994), Ed. Tim Coodhead and David Johnson, E & FN Spon. Socio-Economic review of Angling. NOP Research NRA 12. Environment Committee, Fourth Report (1995). R & D Report 501/1 /T. The Environmental Impact of Leisure Activities, Volume II, 25. Environment Agency, Southern Region (1995/96). HMSO, London. Internal report. Report on Rod Licence Sales. Water Related Recreation Strategy

26. Environment Agency Southern Region publication. 33. Leisure Consultants (1989), Boating and Water sports - Fishing in the South. in Britain, Market Profiles and Prospects.

27. Environment Agency Southern Region publication. 34. RYA Hampshire and Isle of wight (1995), Windsurfing Newsreels for Anglers. development Strategy.

28. Specialist Anglers Conservation Group (SACG) (April 35. North West Water (May 1988), Jetskis and Funcraft, 1997), Code of Conduct for specialist coarse Anglers, Environmental Impact Assessment. First Edition. 36. Lam, R &B (1995). Shipwreck index of the British Isles. 29. Environment Agency, Southern Region (August 1996), Volume 2 Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Sussex, Kent and Guide to the Medway Navigation. Thames. Lloyds Register of Shipping.

30. Kent Countryside Forum (1997), Draft Kent 37. The Central Council of Physical Recreation (CCPR) Countryside Strategy. & Sports Council. National Water sports Code.

31. Solent Forum (May 1997), Strategic Guidance 38 The British Water Ski Federation, Southern Regional for the Solent, consultation draft. Committee, Water skiing Development plan, 1995. Supported by Hampshire County Council. 32. BMIF & Southampton Institute (1996), National Youth Water sports Audit. 39. The report of water sports, Safety Working group .

61 Water Related Recreation Strategy

Bibliography

Anderson ) (1994), Water sports Participation in Britain, in National Rivers Authority & Sports Council (1995) Space to Live, Insights. The Tourism Marketing Development Service. space to play. A Recreation Strategy for the River Thames.

British Marine Industries Federation (1994), National Survey of Northern Council for Sport and Recreation, Sports Council and Boating & Water sports Participation, Market Research Solutions. National Rivers Authority. Ash Consulting Group (January 1994) Northern Region Water sports Study. A Consultation document. Countryside Commission Promoting Sustainable Leisure: Summary Report. Developing New Policies. PIANC, Permanent International Association of Navigation Countryside Commission (1994), Informal Countryside Congress, (1995) Guidelines for the Use of Certain Powered Craft, Recreation for Disabled People, A practical guide for countryside such as Waterscooter, Personal Watercraft, Waterbike, jetski, managers. Waverunner, Seadoo, on controlled waters.

Countryside Commission (1995), Quality of Countryside: Pike E B and Gale P (1993), Development of Microbiological Quality of Life. The Countryside Commission's prospectus into Standards, R & D Note 165, National Rivers Authority. the next century. Planning Policies Research Group - Oxford Brookes University Department of the Environment (1991) PPG 17 Planning Policy (1995): Good Practice in the Planning and Management of Sport Guidance, Sport and Recreation. HMSO, London. and Active Recreation in the Countryside, Sports Council and

Department of the Environment (1992) PPG 7, Planning Policy Countryside Commission. Guidance, The Countryside and the Rural Economy, HMSO, South East Council for Sport and Recreation (1994): At the London. End of the Rainbow - The Regional Recreation Strategy for the

Department of the Environment (1994) PPG 9, Planning Policy South East, Crystal Palace, London. Guidance Nature Conservation, HMSO, London. Sports Council (April 1991) Compiled by the Centre for Leisure

Department of the Environment MAFF & Welsh Office Research. A digest of Sports Statistics for the UK, Third Edition. (November 1996), The Environment Agency and Sustainable Sussex Downs Conservation Board (November 1995), Development. A Management Strategy for the Sussex Downs Areas of

Environment Agency (1996), Have fun, have a care - Information Outstanding Natural Beauty. for river canoeists.

Goodhead, T and johnson, D (Editors) 1996. Coastal Recreation Management - The sustainable development of maritime leisure. E & FN Spon, London.

Kent County Council, Countryside (1997), Countryside Recreation in Kent. A State of Kent's Countryside Report 1997. Kent Environment and Planning Agency, 1997.

National Rivers Authority National Angling Survey, 1994, Fisheries Technical Report 5. pedx Evrnet gny Questionnaire Agency Environment 1 Appendix Party ID: _(for office use only)

Questionnaire for Sports and Recreation Organisations E n vir o n m en t Ag en c y Water Based Recreation Survey

Name of club/organisation......

Contact name...... Position within organisation

Contact address......

Telephone (day)...... (evening)......

1. Which of the following sentences best describes your organisation? (please tick)

3. What information is available to the public about we are a club run by volunteers your organisations recreational activities; e.g. leaflets, we are part of a public sector organisation e.g. local authority guide books?

we are a commercial/private business

other (please describe)......

2. FOR CLUBS ONLY

Approximately how many members do you have?

Ox UJ pedx Evrnet gny usinar - Questionnaire Agency Environment 1 Appendix 4. DATA PROTECTION ACT

The Environment Agency is licensed to hold personal data on computer. Any data stored may not be passed on to any commercial organisation. However, we may wish to pass details of your organisation to members of the public or to promote your club activity in the form of a leaflet or watersports directory. If you do not wish your organisation to be promoted in this way please tick the box below.

I do not wish details of my organisation to be passed on to the public or published in any leaflets or directories.

5. ACTIVITIES/SITES AND FACILITIES

To help prepare a strategy for water related recreation in the region, we are gathering information on what activities are currently taking place on rivers, lakes and around the coast. It would help us greatly if you could use the table on the next page to describe the activities your organisation is involved in. Below is a list of activities to choose from but please include any others if they take place on or near water. canoeing dinghy sailing coarse fishing sea fishing yachting rowing nature study continued game fishing sub aqua water skiing cycling jetski/PWC birdwatching walking motor cruising horse riding windsurfing

We would also like to know about any recreation facilities your organisation may own or lease. Please use the list of facility types below as a guide when filling in the table. fishing lodge club house slipway moorings visitor moorings landing stage nature trail boat hire bird hide wheelchair access refreshments car park toilets fishing platforms interpretive boards footpath picnic site safety boats campsite cycle trail education centre view points play areas visitor centre pedx Evrnet gny usinar - Questionnaire Agency Environment 1 Appendix Use this table to tell us about your organisation’s sporting and recreational activities and the sites that you use. As an example, the first few rows on this table have been filled in for you.

SITE NAME LOCATION NATIONAL GRID ACTIVITIES SEASONS TRAINING FACILITIES REF. (if known) (Please tick)

Blue Boar Bridge River Mersey TW1234567 windsurfing mainly in summer changing hut

dinghy sailing all year club slipway

sea fishing mainly in summer continued

ON pedx Evrnet gny usinar - Questionnaire Agency Environment 1 Appendix 8 6. FACTORS INFLUENCING PARTICIPATION

If any of the following factors are problems which affect participation in your organisation’s activities, please use the table below to indicate where these problems occur?

PROBLEM FACTOR SITE WHERE PROBLEM OCCURS PROBLEM FACTOR SITE WHERE PROBLEM OCCURS

Lack of access to water Poor access to site

Conflict with recreational users Lack of car parking

Conflict with commercial users Other - please describe

Lack of space on water

Finally, do you have any comments or additional information which may help in the preparation of a Regional Water Recreation Strategy; e.g. details of any plans your organisation has for future development and improvements, examples of good management continued practice or details of any facilities lacking in your area? Please continue on a separate sheet if necessary.

------

Thank you for your time in completing this survey.

Please return your survey in the envelope provided to Allison Thorpe, Recreation Project Officer, Environment Agency Southern Region, Guildbourne House, Chatsworth Road, Worthing, West Sussex, BN 11 1LD Water Related Recreation Strategy

Appendix 2 Recreation - Environment Act 1995 Appendix 2 Recreation — Environment Act 1995

1. DUTIES Section 7 Recreational Duties Relating to all Functions of the Agency

The Agency has a duty to take account of recreation in the performance of all its functions. Specifically:

• the preservation and maintenance of access for the public- to places of natural beauty and to buildings, sites and other objects of archaeological, architectural or historic interest;

• to ensure that water and land under the NRA's control is made available for recreational purposes, and that in doing so the needs of persons who are chronically sick or disabled are taken into account.

Section 6 Duty to Promote Recreation The Agency will generally promote the use of inland and coastal waters, and land associated with them for the purpose of recreation to the extent that it deems desirable.

Section 9 Code of Practice on Conservation, Access and Recreation

This code of practice issued by the Secretary of State gives practical guidance to the Agency and promotes desirable practices with respect to the Agency's environmental and recreational duties.

CODE OF PRACTICE The Code requires the Agency:

• to have full and up to date information on conservation and recreation whilst fulfilling its duties;

• to seek advice from Regional advisory committees;

• to prepare catchment and management plans particularly for Agency owned sites;

• to recognise the social importance of sport and recreation;

• to incorporate where possible recreation facilities into programmes resulting from the requirements of the other Agency functions.

Additional relevant legislation

Rights of Way Act, 1990.

Disability Discrimination Act, 1995.

Occupiers Liability Act, 1957.

67 pedx 3 Appendix 1 Botley Grange 21 River Itchen, Bishopstoke 2 Abbey Mill Pond, Bishop's Waltham 22 Southampton Common Lakes 3 Hatchet Pond, East Boldre 23 Charlton Lakes, Andover •4 Testwood Mill Fishery 24 Soake Pond, Denmead 5 Cadman's Pool 25 Yaverland, IOW 6 Janesmore Pond, New Forest 26 Sway Lakes, Lymington 7 Roundhill Pond, New Forest 27 Hilsea Moat 8 Staunton Country Park 28 Southwick Reservoir 9 Lakeside, Eastleigh 29 The Solent 10 Broadlands Estate 30 Brooklands Hamble 11 Morton Farm, IOW 31 Baffins Pond, Portsmouth 12 Gunville Pond, IOW 32 Abshot Pond, Hook 13 Somerton Reservoir, IOW 33 Brockhurst Moat, Gosport 14 River Yar, Barding, IOW 34 Funtley Lake 15 Hale Manor Lakes, IOW 35 Sinah Lake, Hayling Island 16 Island Farm, Brightstone, IOW 36 River Wallington, Southwick 17 River Yar, Alverstone, IOW 37 River Wallington, Fareham 18 River Yar, Adgestone, IOW 38 Leigh Park Lake, Havant 19 Merstone Lakes, IOW 39 Brownwich Pond, Titchfield 20 Langstone Harbour 40 Longbridge Lake

35 20 ortsmouth

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey

Legend: Main River ♦ Coarse Fishing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. 0 © Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1:523400 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t A g e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 20/08/1997 PRINCIPAL COARSE FISHING LOCATIONS IN HAMPSHIRE > 1 River Arun, Creatham Bridge -o “O 2 Ardingly Reservoir rc 3 River Arun Pulborough 3 4 River Arun Houghton Bridge Q. 5 Horam X 6 Reservoirs, Clive Vale 7 Ecclesbourne Reservoir, Hastings 8 Cider Cottage Coarse Fishery 9 Burton Mill Pond, Rye 10 Chichester Canal 11 River Rother Rogate 12 Oast Farm Fishery 13 Honey's Green Coarse Fishery, Framfield 14 River Ouse, Barcombe Mills 15 Wyland Angling Centre 16 Borde Hill Estate, Haywards Heath 17 Cuckfleld fishery 18 Tanyard Fishery, Danehill 19 Doctor's Lake, Horsham 20 Patching Pond 21 River Adur, Tenchford 22 River Arun, Timberly Farm 23 Wintons Fishery SUSSEX AREA 24 River Arun, Arundel 25 Quarry Land Lakes, Chichester 38 River Arun, Hardham 51 Roosthole Pond, Coolhurst 67 River Rother, Shopham Bridge 26 Barratts Park Farm, Heathfield 39 River Adur, Wineham 52 Birchenbridge Pond, Coolhurst 68 River Rother, Durford Mill 27 Wishingtree Reservoir, Hastings 40 River Adur,Twineham 53 Horton Clay Pits, Henfield 69 River Rother, Chithurst 28 Bucks Hole Reservoir, Hastings 41 Malthouse, Wisborough Green 54 Lakes Sheffield Park, Uckfield 70 Combe Pond, Rake 29 Hammers Pond, Hastings 42 River Arun, Bignor 55 Hellingly Pond 71 Nyewood Pond, Rogate 30 Broomham Lake, Catsfield 43 Farthings Pond, PowderMill Wood 56 Millwards Farm, Laughton 72 Longmoor Pond, Greatham 31 Glyndley Quarry 44 Lurgashall Mill 57 Conyboro, Lewes 73 Holmbush Lake, Midhurst 32 Pevensey Haven 45 River Rother, Sheet 58 Decoy Pond, East Hoathly 74 Ludlay Pond, Berwick 33 Smith's Corpse Pond, Aldingboume 46 River Park, Lodsworth 59 Wallers Haven 75 Cooks Pond, Milland 34 Heath Pond Petersfield 47 Lakes, Petworth Park 60 Wick Farm Lake, Albourne 76 New Pond, Midhurst 35 River Rother, Petworth 48 River Rother, Fittleworth 61 Whitelands Reservoir, Ditchling 77 North Mill, Midhurst 36 River Arun, Amberly 49 River Rother, Chithurst 62 Stepstones, Dumpford 78 Newells Pond, Lower Beeding 37 River Adur, Upper Beeding 50 River Arun, Watersfield 63 River Arun, Rudgwick 79 River Rother, Woolbeding 64 Furnace Pond, Slaugham 80 Bethwins Ponds, Chiddingford 65 Passies Pond, Coombes 81 Durleigh Marsh Fishery, Petersfield Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey 66 River Rother, Coultershaw Bridge ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water

Legend: Main River ♦ Coarse Fishing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. 0 C Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1: 486900 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t Ag e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C Braiden

Print Date: 22/08/1997 PRINCIPAL COARSE FISHING LOCATIONS IN SUSSEX ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water > 1 Burham Reservoir 45 River Beult, Elphicks Farm "O 2 River Medway, East Peckham 46 Royal Military Canal, Allington Lock ■o 3 Danson Park 47 Leybourne Lakes, Larkfield ft 3 4 Brockhill Country Park 49 Mote Park, Maidstone a 50 Lake, Hollingboume 5 St Mary's Bay Lake x 6 Royal Military Canal 51 Walland Marsh 7 Dungeness Long Pits 52 River Medway, Teston U i 8 Pett Pools 53 River Medway, Maidstone 9 River Beult 54 Aldington Lake, Aldington 10 River Medway. Stiltstead Farm 55 Montral Park, Chipstead 11 Brookland Lake, Snodland 56 Royal Military Canal, Bilsington 12 Lake, Fordcombe 57 River Stour, Wye 13 River Medway, Ashurst 58 Eastern Rother, Newbridge 14 Balls Green, River Medway 59 Royal Military Canal, Cliff Marsh Farm 105 15 Hartfield, River Medway 60 Bewl Water 16 River Teise, Lamberhurst 61 Ash Lake, Fleet Farm 17 Horsmonden Pond 62 Stone Castle, Greenhithe 18 River Teise, Finchcocks 63 Singleton Lake, Ashford 19 Nook Beach, Winchelsea 64 Wierton Reservoir 20 Rystwood Farm Lake, Forest Row 65 River Tillingham, Rye 21 River Eden, Chiddingstone 66 River Brede, Rye 22 Bough Beech Reservoir 67 Royal Military Canal, Gigger's Green 23 River Eden, Hever Castle Lake 68 River Wantsum 24 Billingham Lake, Udimore 69 River Beult, Staplehurst 25 Saunders Gravel Pit, Rye Harbour 70 River Medway, Upnor 26 Blackwall Bridge, Eastern Rother 71 River Teise, Mardens 27 River Brede, Brede Bridge 72 Linton Park 28 West Arm, Royal Military Canal 73 Plucks Gutter 29 Eastern Rother, Newenden 74 Bay Pond, Godstone 30 Eastern Rother, Bodiam 75 Hedgecourt Lake, Felbridge 31 Eastern Rother, Udiam 76 Ford Manor, Dormansland 32 Eastern Rother, Salehurst 77 Kidbrooke Farm, Forest Row 31 River Medway, Yalding 78 Pattenden, Marden 34 Eastern Rother, Robertsbridge 79 Park Farm, Frittchden 35 River Rother, Penshurst 80 Marden Torhorn, Marden 37 Lady Cross Farm 81 Reading Street Sewer, Appledore 38 Chiddingstone, Vexour Bridge 82 Bog Lake, Leybourne 39 Fordcombe 83 Lakes, Larkfield 40 Gotwick Manor, Hammerwood 84 Westbere Lakes, Sturry 89 Ponds, Middle Stoke 98 Cromwell Hall, East Grinstead 10 7 Lakes, Fordwich 41 Gedges Lakes, Paddock Wood 85 Eastern Rother, Newenden 90 Lesser Teise, Hunton 99 River Beult, Sweetlands 108 Bramletye Pond, Ashurst 42 River Beult, Hunton 86 Brooklands Lakes, Dartford 91 River Medway, Unicumes Lande 100 Blue Lake, Northfleet Wood 43 River Teise, Laddingford 87 Rjver Teise, Bocking Fold 92 Gravelly Ways, Laddingford 101 Clubbs Pit, Darent 109 Ruxley Gravel Pits, St Pauls 44 River Medway, East Peckham 88 Iden Wood Fishery, Rye 93 Imberhorne Pond 102 Fordwich Lake, Canterbury Cray 94 Grove Ferry 103 Eastern Rother, Etchingham 110 White Hart Lake, Guestling 95 Abbey Court, Maidstone 104 Vinehall Lake, Whatlington 111 Eastern Rother, Wittersham Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey 96 Sutton at Hone 105 Sykes Pond, Deal 112 Romney Marsh 97 Lakes, Horton Kirby 106 River Eden, Barrows Green 113 Wallard Marsh

Legend: Main River ♦ Coarse Fishing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. < (2) Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. © Environment Agency 1997 0 SCALE 1: 427700 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t A g e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 27/08/1997 PRINCIPAL COARSE FISHING LOCATIONS IN KENT > TJ HAMPSHIRE & -o 3 ISLE OF WIGHT Q. X* AREA O n

1 East Meon 2 Holbury Lakes 3 Wintershill Lake 4 Woodmill, Swaythling 5 Testwood Mill 6 Broadlands Estate 7 Hale Manor Lakes 8 Island Fish Farm, Brightstone 9 Fountain Lake, Portsmouth 10 River Meon, Exton ‘11 River Itchen 12 John O'Gaunt Lakes 13 Brooklands Farm, Upper Hamble Portsmouth

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water

Legend: Main River ♦ Game Fishing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. © Environment Agency 1997 0 SCALE 1: 393600 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t Ag e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 20/08/1997 PRINCIPAL GAME FISHING LOCATIONS IN HAMPSHIRE ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water > 1 Arlington Reservoir ■o~D 2 River Arun, Creatham Bridge n> 3 River Arun, Pulborough 3 Q. 4 Chalk Springs Trout Fishery X 5 Barcombe Reservoir VI 6 River Rother, Rogate 7 Cinder Hill, Horsted Keynes 8 Tanyard Fisheries 9 Hazel Copse, Bucks Green 10 Criddell Lake, Ramsdean 11 Ovenden Lake, Haywards Heath

Worthing

SUSSEX AREA

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey

Legend: Main River ♦ Game Fishing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. H © Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1:426200 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t Ag e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 20/08/1997 PRINCIPAL GAME FISHING LOCATIONS IN SUSSEX ------> T3 TJ rc 3 Q. KENT AREA X* 00

1 Tenterden Trout Waters 2 Fordcombe 3 River Medway, Ashurst 4 River Medway, Hartfield 5 River Teise, Lamberhurst 6 River Teise, Finchcocks 7 Bough Beech Reservoir 8 Bewl Water 9 River Stour 10 Lake, Shoreham 11 Lake, Eynsford 12 Darwell Reservoir 13 Powdermill Reservoir 14 Yew Tree Trout Fishery, Rotherfield 15 Chequer Tree Trout Fishery 16 River Teise, Hope Mill 17 River Little, Teise, Marden Beech 18 River Teise, Bocking Fold 19 Marden Beech, Farm Reservoir 20 Eastern Rother, Udiam 21 Lullingstone Castle Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey 22 Westbere ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water

Legend: Main River ♦ Game Fishing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. 0 C Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1: 478600 \ Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t Ag e n c y metres : metres north Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 04/07/1997 PRINCIPAL GAME FISHING LOCATIONS IN KENT ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water > TJ "O rt> 3 a HAMPSHIRE & x ISLE OF WIGHT VO AREA

1 Hampshire Outdoor Centre - Portsmouth 2 River Itchen, Itchen Bridge 3 Newtown Harbour 4 Woodmill, Swayling 5 Buckler's Hard 6 Lakeside, Eastleigh 7 Calshot 8 Porchester Marina 9 River Yar 10 Charlton Lakes 11 Yaverland 12 Portsmouth 13 Calshot Activities Centre 14 River Hamble 15 River Itchen, Cobden Bridge 16 Lyndhurst Portsmouth 17 River Itchen, Winchester 18 Hythe Marina 19 Applemore 20 Dunroamin

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey

Legend: Main River ♦ Canoeing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. H © Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1: 435700 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t A g e n c y metres : metres north Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 07/08/1997 PRINCIPAL CANOEING SITES IN HAMPSHIRE pedx 10 Appendix

1 Littlehampton 11 Southwater Country Park 2 River Arun, Black Rabbit 12 Eastbourne 3 River Arun, Greatham Bridge 1 3 Shoreham 4 Ardingly Reservoir 14 West Wittering 5 Pulborough 15 Cobnor Activities Centre 6 River Arun, Houghton 16 Brighton 7 Seven Sisters Country Park 17 Hailsham 8 Chichester Canal 18 Lagoon Leisure Centre 9 River Ouse 19 River Arun, Burpham 10 Adur Outdoor Activities Centre 20 River Arun, Stopham Bridge 21 River Cuckmere 22 Southwoods, Arundel

SUSSEX AREA

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey

Legend: Main River ♦ Canoeing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary 0 Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. 0 © Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1: 453600 \ Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t A g en c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 31/07/1997 PRINCIPAL CANOEING LOCATIONS IN SUSSEX pndx 11 dix ppen A

1 Danson Park 2 Bewl Water KENT AREA 3 River Medway, Yalding 4 River Medway, Maidstone 5 River Wantsum 6 Plucks Cutter 7 Brooklands Lakes, Dartford 8 River Medway, Tonbridge Park 9 Coudhurst 10 River Medway, Town Lock Tonbridge 11 River Medway, EWridges Lock 12 River Medway, East Lock 13 River Medway, Oak Lock Weir 14 River Medway, Porters Sluice 15 River Medway, Allington Lock 16 River Medway, Mill Meadow 17 River Stour, Chartham Hill

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey

Legend: Main River ♦ Canoeing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. <(2) Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. 0 © Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1: 478600 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t Ag e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 29/08/1997 PRINCIPAL CANOEING LOCATIONS IN KENT > -o ~o n 3 HAMPSHIRE & a ISLE OF WIGHT KENT AREA x AREA K)

1 Hampshire Outdoor Centre - Portsmouth 2 River Itchen, Southampton 3 Langstone Harbour SUSSEX AREA 4 Danson Park Watersports Centre 5 Hampshire Outdoor Centre - Southampton 6 River Medway 7 Calshot Activities Centre 8 Cobnor Activities Centre 9 Shoreham Harbour Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water

Legend: Main River ♦ Power Boating Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. <(2) Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. © Environment Agency 1997 0 SCALE 1: 186400 f Produced By: FRCN E n v i r o n m e n t A g e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 07/08/1997 PRINCIPAL POWER BOATING SITES IN SOUTHERN REGION pndx 13 dix ppen A

1 Eight Acre Pond, Salterns Marsh 2 Lands End Road, Bursledon (Public Hard) 3 Upper Hamble Country Park 4 Warsash Public Hard 5 Itchen Bridge, Southampton 6 Keyhaven 7 Lakeside, Eastleigh 8 Hill Head, Stubbington 9 River Hamble, Swanwick Marina 10 Calshot, Fawley 11 Bath House, West Solent 12 Sandy Point, Hayling Island 13 Bembridge Harbour 14 Port Solent, Horsea Island 15 Ashlett Creek, Southampton Water 16 Abbey Hill, Netley 17 Southsea 18 River Yar 19 Portsea Island 20 Longshore Way, Southsea 21 Yaverland, Sandown 22 Beaulieu 23 Calshot 24 Mengeham Rythe, Hayling Island 25 River Itchen, Cobden Bridge 26 Hamble Quay 27 The Solent 28 Gurnard Bay 29 River Medina 30 The Esplanade 31 Portsmouth Harbour 32 The Point, Old Portsmouth 33 Itchen Bridge

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey

Legend: Main River ♦ Dinghy Sailing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary ■ Yachting Sites Crown copyright reserved. n O Environment Agency 1997 s c a le : f • Dingy/Yachting Sites 1 304900 Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t Ag e n c y _ T metres : metres n o r t h O Towns/Cities Drawing By: C. Braiden Print Date: 21/08/1997 PRINCIPAL DINGHY SAILING AND YACHTING LOCATIONS IN HAMPSHIRE > "O 1 Dell Quay TJ 2 Fisherman's Quay n 3 3 Littlehampton Marina Q. 4 Ardingly Reservoir X 5 Chichester Canal 6 River Adur, Shoreham 7 Southwater 8 Bognor Regis 9 Eastbourne 10 Brighton 11 Worthing 12 Pevensey Haven

3 i6 Worthing 13 Ensworth Quay 14 St Leonards 15 Cobnor 16 Littlehampton Beach SUSSEX AREA 17 Seaford 18 Piddinghoe Pond 19 Public Slipway, Fisherman's Quay 20 Emsworth Quay 21 Apuldram

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water

Legend: Main River ♦ Dinghy Sailing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary ■ Yachting Sites Crown copyright reserved. 0 © Environment Agency 1997 • Dingy/Yachting Sites s c a le i : 486900 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t A g en c y _ T metres : metres n o rth O Towns/Cities Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 11/08/1997 PRINCIPAL DINGHY SAILING AND YACHTING LOCATIONS IN SUSSEX pndx 15 dix ppen A

1 Creatstone 2 Danson Park 3 Brooklands Lake KENT AREA 4 Bough Beech Reservoir 5 Bewl Water 6 Chipstead 7 Hedgecourt Lake 8 Mote Park 9 Dover Harbour 10 Whitstable Harbour 11 Eastern Rother 12 River Stour 13 Herne Bay 14 Sandwich Bay 15 River Thames 16 Folkestone Harbour 17 Coudhurst 18 Walmer 19 Tankerton Bay 20 Seasalter 21 Allhallows 22 River Medway 23 Minnis Bay 24 Lower Halstow Creek 25 Hythe 26 Westbere Lakes 27 River Swale, Kings Ferry Bridge 28 River Thames 29 Ramsgate Royal Harbour

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey

Legend: Main River ♦ Dinghy Sailing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary ■ Yachting Sites Crown copyright reserved. © Environment Agency 1997 H • Dingy/Yachting Sites scale 1 : si 3000 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t A g en c y _ . . metres : metres north O Towns/Cities Drawing By: C. Braiden Print Date: 04/08/1997 PRINCIPAL DINGHY SAILING AND YACHTING LOCATIONS IN KENT > ■O ■O 3 Q. x ’ Os ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water

Legend: Main River ♦ Windsurfing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. ^2) Area Boundary 0 Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. C Environment Agency 1997

SCALE 1: 283400 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t A g e n c y metres : metres north Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 04/08/1997 PRINCIPAL WINDSURFING SITES IN HAMPSHIRE 1 Atherington 2 Ardingly Reservoir 3 Sandy Point, Hayling Island 4 Emsworth Quay 5 Southwater Country Park 6 Esplanade, Bognor Regis 7 Eastbourne 8 Hove 9 Worthing 10 Pevensey Bay 11 West Wittering 12 Pagham Harbour

1 i6 Worthing 13 St Leonards 14 Apuldram 15 Cobnor Activities Centre 16 Littlehampton 17 Seaford SUSSEX AREA 18 Piddinghoe Pond

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey

Legend: Main River ♦ Windsurfing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. 0 C Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1: 486900 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t Ag e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 04/08/1997 PRINCIPAL WINDSURFING SITES IN SUSSEX > ■o 1 Creatstone "O 2 Northpoint Lake rc 3 3 Danson Park Watersports KENT AREA Q. Centre X 4 Brooklands Lake 5 Bewl Water 00 6 Bough Beech Reservoir 7 Hedgecourt Lake 8 Whitstable Harbour 9 Sandwich Bay 10 Coudhurst 11 Eastern Rother 12 Pett Pool 13 Tankerton Bay 14 Sheerness 15 Minnis Bay 16 Hythe 17 Walmer.

Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water

Legend: Main River ♦ Windsurfing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. <(2) Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. 0 C Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1: 513000 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t Ag e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 04/08/1997 PRINCIPAL WINDSURFING LOCATIONS IN KENT pndx 19 dix ppen A 2 HAMPSHIRE & ISLE OF WIGHT KENT AREA AREA

W orthing 1 Greatstone 2 Langstone Harbour 3 Eastern Rother SUSSEX AREA 4 Portsmouth Harbour 5 Sandwich Bay 6 River Medway 7 Yaverland 8 Marchwood, Public Hard 9 Allhallows Holiday Estate Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey

Legend: Main River ♦ Water Skiing Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. ^2) Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. 0 © Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1:934200 \ Produced By: FRCN E n v i r o n m e n t A g e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 05/08/1997 PRINCIPAL WATER SKIING SITES IN SOUTHERN REGION pedx 0 2 Appendix HAMPSHIRE & ISLE OF WIGHT KENT AREA AREA

10 1 Littlehampton 2 Ardingly Reservoir 3 Greatstone 1 W orthing 4 Stokes Bay, Gosport 5 Langstone Harbour 6 Bewl Water SUSSEX AREA 7 The Solent 8 Portsmouth Harbour 9 Folkestone Harbour 10 Worthing 11 Yaverland 12 Calshot Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey 13 Minnis Bay

Legend: Main River ♦ Sub Aqua Sites COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. 0 © Environment Agency 1997 SCALE 1: 934200 f Produced By: FRCN En v ir o n m e n t A g e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 07/08/1997 PRINCIPAL SUB AQUA SITES IN SOUTHERN REGION ae Rltd erain Strategy Recreation Related Water > ■o ■o n HAMPSHIRE & D KENT AREA Q. ISLE OF WIGHT x' 12 NJ AREA

South

7 Hants Outdoor Centre, Portsmouth W orthing 8 NE Hants Water Activities Centre 9 Arun Youth Aqua Centre 10 Bewl Water Outdoor Centre SUSSEX AREA 1 Ardingly Activity Centre 11 Dover Watersports Centre 2 Adur Outdoor Activity Centre 12 Whitstable Youth Sailing Centre 3 Gillingham Water Activity Centre 13 Snodland Watersports Centre 4 Applemore Riding and Watersports 14 Cobnor Activities Centre Centre 15 Danson Park Watersports Centre 5 Hants Outdoor Centre, 16 Arethusa Venture Centre Southampton 17 Cliffe Watersports Centre Data compiled from 1996 Agency water related survey 6 Calshot Activities Centre 18 Bowles Outdoor Centre

L e g e n d : Main River ♦ Activity Centres COPYRIGHT: Produced from Ordnance Survey Maps under licence granted by the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Area Boundary O Towns/Cities Crown copyright reserved. © Environment Agency 1997 0 SCALE 1: 810800 f Produced By: FRCN E n v i r o n m e n t A g e n c y metres : metres n o r t h Drawing By: C. Braiden

Print Date: 12/08/1997 ACTIVITY CENTRES IN SOUTHERN REGION SOUTHERN REGION ADDRESSES

REGIONAL OFFICE HAMPSHIRE SUSSEX AREA KENT AREA Environment Agency Environment Agency Environment Agency Environment Agency Guildbourne House Sarum Court Ridgeworth House Orchard House Chatsworth Road Sarum Road 5 Liverpool Gardens Endeavour Park Worthing Winchester Worthing London Road, Addington West Sussex BN11 1 LD Hampshire S022 5DP West Sussex BN11 1YH West Mailing Tel: 01903 832 000 Tel: 01962 71 3 267 Tel: 01903 215 835 Kent ME19 5SH Fax: 01903 821 832 Fax: 01962 841 573 Fax: 01903 215 884 Tel: 01732 875 587 ISLE OFWIGHT Fax: 01732 875 057 Tel: 01983 822 986 Fax: 01983 822 985

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