RPSI pleased with riverbanks working group

Context

In brief

• RPSI joins the working group for the shores between Minusio and Tenero-Contra
• Petition for year-round free access
• Winter opening of Ascona Lido shore

Key facts

• What: Inclusion of RPSI in the working group
• When: 1st May 2026
• Where: Minusio and Tenero-Contra
• Who: RPSI, Canton, Municipalities of Minusio and Tenero-Contra, CST, six campsites
• Amount: Not yet specified

RPSI (Public Shores of Italian Switzerland) announced with satisfaction its inclusion in the Working Group 'Enhancement of Lake Shores between Minusio and Tenero-Contra'. Two representatives of the association will participate in the work together with representatives of the Canton, the Municipalities of Minusio and Tenero-Contra, CST, and the six campsites involved. The aim is to identify a shared and innovative solution for the enhancement of the use and landscape of the shore stretch between the port of Minusio-Mappo and the Verzasca river. This project is in line with the guidelines of Sheet P7 - Lakes and lake shores of the cantonal directive plan and takes into account both public and private interests.

Meanwhile, RPSI invites citizens to support the online petition promoted by the Giovani Verdi del Locarnese to guarantee free access to the lake shores throughout the year, not only on Lake Maggiore. The signature collection is available by clicking here. A second reason for satisfaction for the association is represented by the winter opening of the shore of the Lido patriziale of Ascona, following the example of the Sentiero delle Rive between Minusio and Tenero. The lakeside walk starts from the public bath, continues along the lido shore and reconnects to the 'golf course' route. According to RPSI, the initiative has been very appreciated by the population and could be extended to other riverside areas, allowing greater use of the shores at least during the winter season.

Practical implications

The winter opening of the shores and the online petition represent significant steps towards greater accessibility of the lake areas. For cross-border workers residing in Ticino, these initiatives offer new opportunities for leisure and relaxation throughout the year. RPSI's participation in the working group ensures that the voice of citizens is heard in the decision-making process.

Future scenarios

If the increase in the regulation quota of the lake decided by Italy is confirmed, it will be necessary to adjust the reference level of Lake Maggiore, currently set at 194.50 meters above sea level. This could have relevant consequences both for public domain and private properties. However, the winter opening of the shores and the petition for year-round free access represent a significant step forward towards greater use of the lake areas.

Operational details

Analysis of Initiatives

The inclusion of RPSI in the working group for the enhancement of the shores between Minusio and Tenero-Contra is an important step to ensure that the needs of citizens are taken into account. The participation of representatives from the Canton, the municipalities, and the involved campsites ensures a comprehensive and shared vision of the project. This collaborative approach is essential to find innovative solutions that satisfy both public and private interests.

Petition for year-round free access

The petition promoted by the Giovani Verdi del Locarnese aims to guarantee free access to the lake shores throughout the year. This is an ambitious goal that, if achieved, could have a significant impact on the quality of life of residents and cross-border commuters. Year-round free access to the shores would not only improve the use of public spaces but also contribute to promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Winter opening of the shores

The winter opening of the Lido patriziale shore in Ascona has been an initiative highly appreciated by the population. This example demonstrates that it is possible to extend access to the shores even during the winter season, offering new opportunities for leisure and relaxation. Extending this initiative to other lakeside areas could have a positive impact on the local community, promoting greater use of public spaces.

Implications for cross-border commuters

For cross-border commuters residing in Ticino, these initiatives offer new opportunities for leisure and relaxation throughout the year. Free access to the lake shores and the winter opening of the shores represent a significant step forward towards greater use of public spaces. Moreover, the participation of RPSI in the working group ensures that the voice of citizens is heard in the decision-making process, guaranteeing that their needs are taken into account.

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Key points

• ## Concrete actions

For supporting the online petition promoted by the Giovani Verdi del Locarnese, it is possible to sign the petition available by clicking here. This is an important step to guarantee free access to the lake shores throughout the year.

Procedure for accessing winter shores

The winter opening of the Lido patriziale shore in Ascona is an initiative that has been highly appreciated by the population. To take advantage of this opportunity, it is possible to follow the shore path between Minusio and Tenero, which starts from the public bath, continues along the lido shore, and reconnects to the 'giro del golf' path. This initiative could be extended to other lakeside areas, allowing greater use of the shores at least during the winter season.

Adjustment of the reference level of Lake Maggiore

Should the increase in the regulation level of the lake decided by Italy be confirmed, it will be necessary to adjust the reference level of Lake Maggiore, currently set at 194.50 meters above sea level. This could have significant consequences for both public and private properties. It is important to monitor the developments of this situation and stay informed about any possible changes.

Useful tools

To stay updated on the latest news and initiatives related to free shores, it is possible to subscribe to Tio's daily newsletter to receive the most important news directly in your inbox. Furthermore, it is possible to browse tio.ch without advertisements, trying TioABO for 7 days. For further information, it is possible to consult the RPSI website or contact the association directly.