The River Deben is a tidal estuary in Suffolk, flowing through largely unspoilt countryside for nearly 25 miles from its source near Debenham to the North Sea at Felixstowe Ferry. The Deben is tidal for about 13 miles, from Bromeswell, just upstream from Woodbridge.

Between 26 February and 20 April we  conducted a survey to find out how people use the River and what they like, or don’t like, about the river and the area immediately around it. 

212 people responded and the results will help us represent the views of people who use and enjoy the river in our discussions as part of the Deben Estuary Partnership, and with local authorities and other local and national organisations.  The DEP expects to publish the Deben Estuary Plan later this year.  

We will publish a report of the results and announce the names of people who won the two booktokens in mid-May.

Membership of the RIVER DEBEN ASSOCIATION (RDA) enables individuals and organisations to influence what happens on and along this beautiful river. The association was established over 20 years ago to give a forum for issues relating to the wellbeing of the river.  In 1997 it took an active part in voicing concerns over the potential adverse impact of commercial development of the former Bentwaters airbase.  Since then it has been engaged in a wide range of projects, and now has around 800 members.

The Association works closely with local authorities and statutory organisations through its representation on the Deben Estuary Partnership, of which the RDA is a founding member.

Click the links on the right for a map and photos of the Deben valley.