News Should the River Medway be given rights?
Maidstone Borough Council takes part in Source to Sea Pilgrimage to stand up for the rights of our rivers
Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) is to support the Source to Sea Pilgrimage, a unique nine-day journey along the River Medway organised by Friends of the River Medway, taking place from 19th to 27th July.
The pilgrimage, which blends environmental action, community connection, and advocacy, will pass through Maidstone on Wednesday 23rd July as part of Day 5 of the journey.
Councillors and council staff will join the walk from Yalding to Aylesford, meeting outside the Boathouse Pub and walking for approximately seven hours to The Friars, Aylesford.
MBC have provided all of the litter picking gear for the pilgrimage and with participants picking up rubbish throughout the whole event. Maidstone Borough Council will also be offering invasive species awareness training from the to all attendees to help them identify and report harmful non-native plants and animals along the route.
Biodiversity and Climate Change Manager at MBC, Shelley Wilcken said: “Invasive species such as Himalayan balsam and giant hogweed pose serious threats to river ecosystems by outcompeting native species, damaging riverbanks, and disrupting biodiversity. Raising awareness of these threats is a vital step in protecting the health of the River Medway and ensuring it continues to support wildlife and local communities.”
The following day, a representative from Maidstone Borough Council will attend the Rights of Rivers Conference at The Friars. The event will explore the growing movement to recognise rivers as living entities with legal rights, and will include discussions on how this approach can support the long-term health of the River Medway and its surrounding communities.
The Council is keen to hear views from across the region as part of a wider conversation around a Declaration of the Rights of the River Medway.
Councillor Stuart Jeffery, Leader of MBC said: "Water is life. With sewage spills up 60% in the past year, we must act urgently. Our rivers are living ecosystems, they deserve protection, respect, and recognition of their rights."
Councillor Mike Summersgill, Cabinet Member for Climate Transition and Nature Recovery, said: “Rivers are the lifeblood of our communities, they support biodiversity, provide green spaces for wellbeing, and connect us to our natural heritage.“We are proud to support this important initiative and to stand alongside residents, campaigners, and experts in recognising the vital role the River Medway plays in a healthy, thriving borough.”
The Source to Sea Pilgrimage invites everyone, whether for a single day or the full journey, to walk in solidarity with the river, take part in ceremonies, conversations, and creative activities, and help shape a more sustainable future for the Medway.
To find out more, please visit www.formedway.org/events. If you are interested in volunteering, please email hello@formedway.org.