Rapid Enhancement

Many rivers have a good base flow and sufficient gradient to form excellent canoeing features, however years of canalisation of the channel, particularly within urban areas, has left many rivers featureless and bland.

Improvements can be made to dramatically improve the situation with new rapids formed for all levels of paddlesport; dependant upon the available energy. This may take the form of deflectors of the flow, placement of boulders or the construction of groins to direct and concentrate the flow. With the generation of a few waves, more eddies and some tongues of water an excellent site can be produced.

In order for any improvements to take place the many consultees need to be appraised of the proposals and various applications made to statutory bodies. A hydraulic model may be required to ensure that there will be no adverse effects due to flooding potential, any erosion measures must also be considered and designed for. Land Drainage Consent from the Environment Agency may well be required along with Planning Permission if any structures are being constructed.

Together with any water feature improvements, paths and better access routes, particularly for improved disabled access, are also highly desirable. Again various permissions may be required.

EPD are specialists at such improvements and can quickly appraise the way forward to improve paddling facilities and undertaking all the statutory work required before any work can take place.