A River Charter for Avon Bioregion
With support from research from Conham Bathing and the University of the West of England, we are in the process of forming and implementing the UK’s first ever bioregional declatory motion recognising our river’s rights.
There are 17 and counting River Charters across the UK with more being announced every month. We Are Avon core team member Meg Avon sits on the Board of Directors for the UK River Rights Network as the Nature Representative.
We thank all parish, town and unitary authority councils accross the bioregion in co-developing our charter and working towards unanimous adoption of it.
Winsley Parish council was the first Avon council to formally announce the charter for the Rights of the Avon and Bioregion in June 2026.
All the rights in the charter point to existing enviromental laws. The River Guardianship scheme is integral to these rights being upheld, putting power back into the hands of local people. For more FAQ’s on what is a charter click here.
The full text version of the Charter of Rights for the Bristol Avon and Bioregion
1. Right to exist, thrive, and evolve naturally
To maintain and support ecological function of the river at all stages along its life course from source to sea.
2. Right to flow sustainably
Through naturally functioning patterns that support the resilience of the river’s ecosystem where reasonably practical.
3. Right not to be polluted
To achieve good ecological health, free from detrimental levels of known and emerging pollutants.
4. Right to biodiversity integrity
To promote good biological health through the existence and flourishing of diverse species and unique habitats.
5. Right to regeneration and restoration
To recover ecological function and be resilient to the ecological threats caused by human-derived climate instability.
6. Right to cultural and community connection
To recognise the value and interconnectedness of all living entities, including human, with the river and the bioregion.
7. Right to representation and advocacy
To have active and influential voices to speak on behalf of the river.
Meet the artist
The charter was beautifully illustrated by We Are Avon Artist Communicator, Mereida Fajardo.
Listen to Mereida talk about her representation of the Avon Bioregional Charter in our instagram reel.
On World River’s Day 2026, councillors, river guardians, and the Avon community gathered in Bath to recognise the rights of our River and sign the Avon Bioregional Charter.
The ceremony was hosted by the River Wife Mrs Meg Avon and featured reflections from councillors and changemakers.
The Charter has now found a home at Climate Hub in Bath, where you can sign it in person.