BOATERS, canoeists and fishermen fear that the popular Beachley slipway, one of the very few entry points to the River Severn and Wye, could be leased into commercial hands and possibly closed to public access.

The well-known slipway, almost directly under the old Severn Bridge, is used as a launch point by Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA) as well as number of private boat owners, yacht clubs, jet skiers and canoeists.

It is owned by the Forest of Dean District Council. In a statement, the council's deputy leader, Cllr Brian Robinson said: "The council is currently reviewing its land and property assets, including the Beachley Slipway, to ensure it is getting the best value for money for them and to seek opportunities to save on-going and future maintenance liabilities.

"We are currently in negotiation with a third party over a possible lease of Beachley Slipway and we realise the importance of this asset to local people. Therefore, before agreeing any transfer our aim is to ensure that the existing rights of access will be maintained as at present. We have promised to keep local people who have contacted us informed about this issue." 

However, the statement has done little to allay fears.

Mr Reuben Howes, commodore of Chepstow and District Yacht Club says: "The slipway was originally sold to the district council for around £1. It is a community resource and should be an asset protected for public use. It would be absolutely scandalous if a lease was put in place which killed off access to the river for many people.

"Our fear is that a private contractor will restrict access to the slipway, killing off and completely stifling access for our yacht club, Lydney Yacht Club and many others.

"It wouldn't make any sense to charge for landing or launching, it just wouldn't make any money. Then there's public liability insurance to consider. If you were a contractor, your best option would be to fence it off and completely kill off any public access."

•It is understood full access for SARA will be maintained, but there are growing concerns that a potential contractor, such as a sand and dredging operator or stone company would lead to increased lorry traffic down the narrow roads leading from Sedbury to Beachley as well as closing off access to river craft.