Bristol promises to protect the River Avon with new charter
Bristol has backed the Avon River Charter to protect the river and its diverse wildlife.
The charter is a promise to sustain a healthy freshwater environment by involving councils, environmental organisations, businesses, landowners, volunteers, and local communities.
While the charter does not create new legal powers, it offers principles guiding future decisions for protecting waterways.
Councillor Abi Finch, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, said:
"The Avon River Charter is about recognising the intrinsic value of our rivers and waterways.
"It’s been brilliant to work with We Are Avon and our neighbouring councils to create this Charter.
"Working together between councils and with communities we can better protect and improve the health of the River Avon and the rivers and waterways that feed into it."
Bristol is also enhancing its relationship with water through projects like the Bristol Harbour Place Shaping Strategy and new floating wetland habitats in the Floating Harbour.
These initiatives aim to improve water quality, habitats, and biodiversity, showcasing the city’s commitment to wildlife and environmental improvement.
Nationwide, councils are endorsing river charters, recognising their importance for biodiversity, climate resilience, public wellbeing, and local economies.
Bath and North East Somerset Council has already backed the charter, and neighbouring authorities within the Avon catchment are considering the approach.