Press Release: Town Council Unanimously Endorses River Rights Charter to Protect and Restore the River Ouse

In a major step toward local environmental protection, Newhaven Town Council has voted unanimously to officially endorse the River Rights Charter for the River Ouse.
The motion, introduced by Councillor Harrison and seconded by Councillor L. Boniface, passed with full support from all members present. By adopting the Charter, the Council pledges to place the long-term health, biodiversity, and ecological recovery of the River Ouse at the heart of its future decision-making.
The River Ouse is recognised as a vital environmental, cultural, and economic asset that supports public wellbeing, local heritage, and regional biodiversity. However, the river faces severe ongoing challenges, including pollution, habitat degradation, climate change, and declining wildlife populations.
The River Rights Charter identifies fundamental rights for the river ecosystem, including:
• The right to flow naturally and sustainably
• The right to be free from pollution
• The right to support native biodiversity
• The right to be actively restored and regenerated
While the endorsement does not create new legal obligations, it establishes a formal commitment from the Council to consider the health of the river across all activities. This includes planning consultations, environmental projects, land management, partnerships, and community events.
Furthermore, the Council resolved to work collaboratively with neighbouring local authorities, statutory agencies, community groups, environmental organisations, and residents to build a resilient future for the river.

Mayor of Newhaven Cllr Mark Wardle comments ”The River Ouse has shaped Newhaven’s history, wildlife, and way of life for generations. By unanimously endorsing the River Rights Charter, the Town Council is sending a clear message that the long-term health of our rivers matters. This commitment reflects our determination to work with residents, community groups, and partner organisations to protect and restore this vital natural asset, ensuring it can be enjoyed by future generations as much as it is today”