You are here:

Welcome to AINA

The Association of Inland Navigation Authorities (AINA) is the industry body in Great Britain for organisations with statutory or other legal responsibility for the management and operaton of navigable inland waterways for navigation and wider use.

From this site detailed information can be found about the role of AINA along with its members and the work it undertakes on their behalf.

VOLUNTEERING PROJECT

Quantifying the extent and value of volunteering in relation to inland waterways

The results of this research project, commissioned by AINA with funding support from Defra, are now available. The research was carried out on behalf of AINA by consultants Ecorys Ltd.

This project was undertaken during a period of changing policy context under the coalition Government and the emergence of the ‘Big Society’ agenda which involves a renewed interest in citizenship and participation, as well as a shift away from support and infrastructure for civil society towards a focus on service delivery.

To read more and to view/download the report click here.

DEFRA CONSULTATION

'A new Era for the Waterways'

On 30 March Defra launched its consultation on moving those inland waterways in England and Wales which are cared for by British Waterways, to a new charitable body in 2012.

In launching the consultation, Waterways Minister, Richard Benyon MP said, “Waterways deliver considerable and extensive benefits ranging from stimulating regeneration in our inner cities to the public enjoyment of the rich natural environment. Our intention with the creation of a new charity is to enable the waterways’ potential to be realised and their future safeguarded. The Government’s proposals will further enhance the public benefits of inland waterways by widening the involvement of stakeholders. This reflects the Government’s Big Society agenda of which the civil society is an important part. It will enable people to have a real say in how their local waterways are run.”

The full consultation document is available here and AINA will liaise with its Members in compiling a fully considered and detailed response. The closing date for the consultation is 30 June.

NEW VICE-CHAIRMAN FOR AINA

John Gibson is new AINA VIce-Chairman

John Gibson, Navigation Manager for The National Trust’s Wey Navigations in Surrey became AINA Vice-Chair in April, succeeding Iain Smith, Chief Executive of the Middle Level Commissioners.