Waterways Standards

We have waterway standards that were first introduced in 1993. Whilst they include specific elements for the towpath and environs, they are predominantly navigation-focused. Surveys of all types of waterway visitor reveal a much wider set of needs, and we have made good progress in drafting new standards which specifically address the requirements of boaters, walkers and casual towpath users, anglers, cyclists and day visitors.   

We are currently completing the details of these proposals and are consulting with our users. This will involve setting out the costs and timescale for the investment required to reach the new standards. We will publish our new standards once they have been agreed.