MP calls for right to roam onriverbanks

A proposed amendment to the Countryside and Rights of Way Bill, which would extend access to waterways and woodlands, is to be discussed by a parliamentary select committee tomorrow.

A proposed amendment to the Countryside and Rights of Way Bill, which would extend access to waterways and woodlands, is to be discussed by a parliamentary select committee tomorrow.

According to the Ramblers' Association, 80 per cent of 1,000 people it surveyed are in favour of amending the legislation. Nicky Warden, of the association - which helped to draft the amendment proposed by the Labour MP David Lepper- said: "There are many scenic areas where people are denied access to riverside and woods. These poll results prove the public wants to see this remedied." Ramblers have said they expect the Government to oppose the amendment.

The Bill proposes giving access to four million acres of mountain, moor, heath, down and registered common land in England and Wales. "My amendment would allow for an equivalent freedom in woods and along riversides," Mr Lepper said. The Countryside Alliance's campaign for angling said any move to increase river access was "misconceived".