We’re aware that’s it’s been a long time since we posted a general update about the Glasbury-Hay canoeing situation – largely because things haven’t really moved on much since our last post in November 2024 (River Wye Glasbury-Hay Update when we said pretty much the same thing!). However, Powys County Council is at last taking some action in response to the fisheries’ allegations that canoeing is detrimental to the river – in the form of a ‘scientific study’ to assess the flow and ecology of the river, starting ‘in the next few days’ (see Powys announcement below). Our hope is that this might counter – and not substantiate – the claims made by the fisheries, so we’re awaiting the results with bated breath and will report back when we know more…
“Dear all,
“I hope that this finds you well and must apologise, as it has been some while since I last contacted you about canoe launching from Upper Glas-y-Bont common.
“Having reviewed the responses to the draft Habitat Regulations Assessment that was circulated in 2023, we are looking to address the points made. Consultation in 2023 revealed that whilst the principle of a Concordat and educational materials were broadly supported, there remains an outstanding area of disagreement around water level indicators as a means of managing access. It has not been possible to reach a negotiated agreement around this. In addition, questions have been raised about potential impacts on Water Crowfoot.
“We have commissioned Amey to review the outstanding points from the draft Habitat Regulations Assessment and gather further evidence around them. To that end, they have engaged a sub-contractor to carry out a specialist canoe-based bathymetric survey, to better understand how the flows and deeper water channels behave. At the same time, they will conduct further ecological investigations focussing on water crowfoot, in particular. This covers the length of the Wye from Glasbury to Hay.
“The survey is due to take place in the next few days; the contractor will launch from Upper Glas-y-Bont common, which is permitted because it is necessary to conduct the Habitat Regulations Assessment. If you see and speak with them whilst on the river, the contractor will explain who they are and what they are doing.”
Sian Barnes, Professional Lead, Countryside Access and Recreation, Powys County Council