25th Anniversary of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000

That this House notes the 25th anniversary of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000; recognises that while the Act created new rights of access to mapped open country for those on foot, it did not extend comparable access to rivers, lakes or most inland waters; acknowledges the increasing public interest in responsible access to blue spaces for recreation, wellbeing and engagement with nature, including swimming and the use of unpowered craft; further notes that forthcoming Government work on water policy, including the planned Water Reform White Paper and subsequent legislation, provides an excellent opportunity to address these issues; and encourages continued discussion between Members, stakeholders and the Government to ensure that the potential for improving access, environmental stewardship and public health in relation to inland waters is realised.