Let’s get it right the first time: Landowners in Wales urged to get advice before working in rivers
Landowners in Wales are being urged to get expert advice before carrying out any work in rivers or streams to avoid costly mistakes, accidental damage and environmental harm that can be difficult to undo.
Poorly planned work in rivers and streams – such as removing gravel, reshaping banks or straightening channels – can quickly create new problems including increasing erosion and flood risk as well as harm to wildlife. They can also affect neighbouring land and structures, which could lead to legal liability and expensive repairs.
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) says many of these issues could easily be avoided if landowners checked with them before starting work. Getting the right advice to properly plan work can help landowners understand what permissions they need and how to approach the work effectively, sustainably and legally.
Francesca Sanchez, Specialist Advisor for Freshwater Habitats and Species at NRW, said:
“We’re asking landowners to get in touch with us before they start any work in a river or stream. It’s genuinely in their best interest to do so. Far too often, we hear about these activities only after something has gone wrong, and by that point landowners could face stop notices, costly restoration and enforcement action. A simple call at the start could prevent all of that.
“We want to help landowners do things properly – in a way that protects their land, avoids damage to wildlife and doesn’t create problems for their neighbours. Getting it right first time is always easier and cheaper than putting it right afterwards.”
Natural features like gravel shoals have already declined by more than half in Wales over the last century. These are important habitats for fish and other wildlife, and their removal or disturbance can have long-term impacts such as destabilising the local environment for years to come, as well as lead to enforcement action against the landowner.
Most work in or beside a river or stream needs permission from NRW or the local authority, and carrying out work without consent could be an offence. Expert NRW officers can explain what permissions are required and advise on the best way to proceed.
Francesca added: “It’s always better to check what permissions you need before you carry out any work in a river or stream. It’s better for nature and for the landowner. We can guide you through what’s needed and help you avoid accidental damage and enforcement action.”
Landowners planning work in a river or stream can contact NRW for advice on 0300 065 3000 or email enquiries@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk. Suspected illegal activity in rivers can be reported to the same number.