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Written question asked by Lord German (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 1 June 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 15 June 2026. It was answered by Baroness Hayman of Ullock (Labour) on Thursday, 4 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Public Footpaths: Inland Waterways and Rivers

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to facilitate the creation of paths along rivers and canals.

Answer

This Government committed in its manifesto and the Environmental Improvement Plan 2025 to create nine new National River Walks, one in each region of England, as part of our plans to improve responsible access to nature. In May 2026, this Government launched the first of these National River Walks, the Mersey Valley Way in Stockport, delivering improved accessibility along a 21.5km route, habitat restoration, new opportunities for access for diverse users, as well as extensive community engagement.

This Government will launch a competition to identify the next National River Walks later in 2026. They will be expected to deliver access which is multi-user, accommodating walking, wheeling, cycling and/or horse riding. An economic assessment of cost, benefits and value for money of the applications received will take place in accordance with the standard government process for the awarding of grant funding.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL460
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Inland waterways Public footpaths Rivers
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk