National Parks Rivers at Risk Report

In partnership with The Rivers Trust, our Rivers at Risk Report sets out the latest full assessment of the state of rivers across the National Parks of England and Wales. It provides evidence of the current situation and identifies the changes needed to policy, legislation and practice to secure the step-change in progress that is so urgently needed. 

The waterways of the UK’s National Parks are iconic: internationally renowned wetlands, glacial lakes, chalk streams and some of the most biodiverse and sensitive rivers, they support natural flood management, help tackle climate change, and are much valued by millions of people as places for recreation and relaxation. These waterways are the lifeblood of our most precious landscapes. 

National Parks were designated to preserve and enhance natural beauty, habitats and wildlife: we might expect their waters to be free from pollution, in far greater condition than other waterways, and protected to the highest standards. Yet this is not the case. Water in National Parks faces many challenges, just as it does across the UK. 

Working with the Rivers Trust who provided in depth data analysis of the state of rivers, our research included analysis of publicly available data looking at trends for each of the 13 National Parks as well as six rivers at risk: River Cleddau (Pembrokeshire Coast), the Wye (Peak District), Meon (South Downs), Lymington (New Forest), Bure (Broads) and Pulham (Exmoor).  

We used freedom of information requests to secure new information on how National Park rivers fared in the water company price review process, and related decisions made by water companies and the regulators. Finally, we looked at the latest National Park Management Plans to review their water ambitions.   

Working together on this report with the Rivers Trust, we have identified the work we can do jointly to support improved water management in National Parks. It is clear that there is still a significant amount of work to be done to better understand the state, pressures and drivers for change within National Park waterways. We are currently exploring how we might fund development of a mapping tool to support National Park Authorities and others better access the huge amount of water data that is available. We are also developing ways to celebrate and support people’s connection with National Park waterways, as part of ensuring that every citizen, no matter their age, race, class or where they live, feels welcome and connected to National Parks.  

We’re demanding urgent action from Government in England and Wales to protect and prioritise National Park waterways. Campaign for National Parks have launched a public action calling on Ministers in England and Wales to finally give National Park waters the protection they deserve and implement the full recommendations from the Rivers at Risk report.