New charter gives River Wye the right to be free from pollution
The River Wye has been granted cross-border rights to be free from pollution, becoming the first river in the UK to receive such recognition. Launched in Hay-on-Wye, the charter has garnered support from various councils and environmental groups. It aims to raise awareness about the river's ecological rights and promote its long-term protection and recovery.
- ▪The River Wye is 155 miles long and flows from Wales through England before returning to Wales.
- ▪The charter includes rights such as the right to flow, the right to biodiversity, and the right to be free from pollution.
- ▪The river has faced increasing pollution issues, leading to algal blooms that threaten local wildlife.
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New charter gives River Wye the right to be free from pollutionImage caption, The River Wye charter was launched in Hay-on-Wye during the annual festivalByNicola GoodwinBBC Midlands InvestigationsPublished24 May 2026The River Wye has become the first river in the UK to be given cross-border rights covering it from source to sea. The charter, which was launched in Hay-on-Wye, recognises how important the river is for people and nature now, and in the future. It's been endorsed by councils, campaigners and environmental groups from England and Wales. "The river has a right to perform its natural functions and be free from pollution," said Councillor Elissa Swinglehurst, who signed the charter on behalf of Herefordshire Council.
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