introduction

The River User Groups (RUGs) were setup to provide a forum to discuss and resolve issues affecting river activities. The meetings are a stimulating forum for discussion, clarification and resolution of difficulties. This website provides a way to share and communicate the debates and the decisions made in public meetings. RUG Tidal covers the stretch between Teddington and the North Sea. The RUGs are long established working groups which meet about 4 times a year with the Environment Agency. Whilst not 'open-house' the RUGs are keen to welcome new members with experience in using the river.

The membership is open to all users including anglers, rowers, sailors, canoeists, motor boat users, walkers, in fact anyone who lives, works or enjoys the River Thames. The RUGs really do make a difference because they bring together people with many different interests along the reaches which they cover, and know intimately. Issues are identified and solved through discussion with other groups and Environment Agency staff. The RUGs are funded by the Environment Agency, the funds are used to cover the cost of the public meetings, administration and this website which has been created to help communication and consultation. If you're interested in finding out more about all the local RUGs then use the link to your local rugs.

Central to the management of the Tidal Thames are the policies in the London Plan contained in the section titled the Blue Ribbon Network (BRN). Policy 4C.6 of the London Plan sets a framework for Sustainable growth priorities for the River Thames in London. It states the uses of the Blue Ribbon Network and land alongside should be prioritized in favour of those uses that specifically require a waterside location. These uses include water transport, leisure, recreation, wharfs and flood defences.

Alterations to the London Plan have recommended this could be achieved by Boroughs, the Mayor and other stakeholders carrying out appraisals of the River and its environs. These appraisals should identify important riverside sites and determine the river related expectations for them. Stakeholders and River Users, because of their role on the River, must play a crucial part in identifying these needs.

The protection of the Thames as a natural resource is essential, because a good environment is good for all. RUG Tidal wishes to encourage uses and users of the River for all river related activities, to directly represent the interests of those of us who live, work, or enjoy the River for sport, recreation, leisure, tourism and the sense of space and freedom it gives. Protecting the economics, utility and amenity of the Tidal Thames is up to us.