A plan by the British Canoe Association to improve rapids and habitats in the River Wye at Symonds Yat, near Monmouth, were approved by members of the southern area planning sub-committee at their meeting on Wednesday, April 30.
This scheme is to replace temporary groynes hand-built from available materials pulled from the riverbank. Permanent limestone groynes will instead be installed to a designed engineering standard to enhance and conserve the rapids, stabilise the island and reduce erosion.
Natural England and the Environment Agency had no objection.
Sport England supported the plans.
Herefordshire Council's county archaeologist had no objections and felt the works could help conserve the historic remains of a weir and iron-working complex from further erosion.
Herefordshire Council's conservation manager and rights of way manager had no objection.
Goodrich Parish Council had no objection.
Letters of representation were received from 11 people, one enclosing a list of 17 objectors. Concerns were expressed about increased flood risk, additional canoeists causing traffic congestion and the fact increased canoeing activity would harm the area of outstanding natural beauty.
Three letters of support were received.