Sustainable transport

Our towpaths have been the focus of sustained improvements over the last few years. The team at the Canal & River Trust have enjoyed working with our partners in Local Authorities to improve towpaths for use by everyone.

Whatever your activity, walking, running or cycling, for leisure or commuting, the canals and rivers offer a safe green route for communities to use.

We have developed successful partnerships with Local Authorities throughout England and Wales to improve the canal towpath network for sustainable transport use. Over £5 million has been invested in 2011 in towpath upgrades. As well as reducing vehicle use this investment has the potential to deliver additional health benefits through encouraging more active communities.

Another key partner in this development work has been Sustrans, through their investment many parts of the canal network also form part of the national cycle network, benefitting local people. We want to work with partners to realise the full potential of our waterways for sustainable transport routes.

In addition to our contribution to more active societies, our canals and rivers also have the potential to encourage more transport by water. Contact us for more information on freight by water.