Around 100 years before the late 18th-century canal boom, John Ray published a collection of English proverbs. In it, he included the phrase ‘Muck and money go together’. By the late 19th century, this had evolved into the title of this article.
It is a proverb that has stood the test of time. I found a perfect example of it on the Grand Union Canal when I met with dredging manager Richard Clarke. This was where we were spending some of our “brass” (around £7 million each year) on dredging muck to improve navigation for boaters:
Rapid repairs keep boaters cruising on the Shroppie
Whilst we know that some lock issues need more time to fix, Boaters travelling along the Shropshire Union Canal at Wheaton Aston were able to get back on the move the very same day thanks to a swift response from our local team.
Early on 3 June, we were alerted to an issue with the lock that meant it couldn’t refill properly, with water escaping through the gates. We know how frustrating unexpected stoppages can be - especially when you’re on a schedule or simply looking forward to a relaxing day on the water - so our West Midlands reactive response team headed straight to site.
On arrival, the team quickly identified a number of problems that would have directly affected boaters passing through: a blocked paddle at the top end, a worn liner on the bottom gate preventing a proper seal, and debris that had shifted into the chamber and was obstructing safe passage.
Wheaton Aston Lock - boat movement
Working efficiently, they cleared the blockage, replaced the damaged liner to ensure the gates closed tightly, and removed the rubble from the chamber. Their quick, practical repairs meant the lock was safe, watertight and ready for use again within just a few hours -minimising disruption and helping boaters continue their journeys without needing to change plans.
For those cruising this much-loved stretch of canal, it meant peace of mind and a smooth onward journey along one of the country’s most scenic and historic waterways.
The Shropshire Union Canal, stretching 66 miles from Wolverhampton to Ellesmere Port, is a favourite with boaters for its long, open sections, impressive engineering and beautiful rural surroundings. Keeping this route open and navigable is vital for the many people who rely on it for holidays, leisure cruising and exploring the network.
Boat numbers dip slightly as licence evasion stabilises
As a licence paying boater, you’re playing a vital role in keeping the canal network open, navigable and enjoyable - and this year’s National Boat Count highlights just how important that contribution is.
The annual count carried out throughout March, gives a snapshot of boating across the network. The overall number of boats dipped slightly by 2.1%, reflecting the broader pressures many people are facing. Encouragingly though, licence evasion has not risen, remaining broadly steady.
For paying boaters, this stability matters. It helps ensure that everyone is contributing fairly, and that the income from licences continues to support the everyday work that keeps your journeys smooth - whether that’s maintaining locks, managing water levels or responding quickly when things go wrong.
One trend you may have noticed, is the growth in boats without a home mooring, which has risen by 3.6% to 8,825. This shows how many people are choosing the flexibility of continuous cruising across the network, adding to the vibrancy and diversity of the boating community.
A boat cruising along the canal
In the regions, the picture varies. Boat numbers in London and the South East have fallen, while the North West has seen a small increase. Elsewhere, numbers have remained fairly stable - helping to maintain access and avoid overcrowding on many routes.
Licence evasion now stands at 11.8% and whilst this suggests the sharp increases seen previously may be slowing, we know it’s still higher than it should be. We appreciate that fair contribution across the network is important for all boaters to protect the boating experience for everyone.
That’s why there’s an increased focus on supporting boaters earlier - before challenges lead to falling out of licence. We know that financial pressures can affect anyone, and the aim is to step in sooner with practical help and advice so that more people can stay licensed and continue enjoying life on the water.
If you ever find yourself struggling, support is available. Our welfare team is there as a first point of contact, offering confidential help and guidance. Over the past year alone, they’ve supported 1,676 cases - helping boaters find a way forward and stay afloat.
Matthew Aymes, national licensing manager, said: “We know many boaters are still feeling the impact of the cost of living, and our priority is to support people early so they can stay licensed and keep enjoying the waterways.
“We’re really grateful to everyone who pays their licence - it makes a real difference. That income directly funds the work that keeps the network open and safe, benefiting everyone out on the water.”
Alongside this, our work continues to remove abandoned and unlicensed boats, which can get in the way of safe navigation and spoil the experience for others. Last year, 98 were removed, and there’s a clear plan to tackle sunken boats - starting with those that pose the greatest risk or that can be dealt with quickly.
For you, all of this adds up to a better boating experience: fewer obstructions, a well‑maintained infrastructure, and a network that’s cared for and protected - due in no small part to your ongoing support. Thank you.
Turn your boating experience into something more at Foxton
Boaters passing through Foxton Locks this summer are being encouraged to take their love of the waterways one step further - by volunteering as a lock keeper at one of the network’s most iconic flights.
With more people choosing to holiday afloat and explore the canals, Foxton is expecting a busy season. That means more boats passing through this historic staircase - and a greater need for the friendly, knowledgeable support that makes such a difference to your journey.
If you’ve ever navigated Foxton Locks yourself, you’ll know just how valuable an extra pair of hands can be. From helping you through safely to keeping things moving on busy days, volunteer lock keepers play a crucial role in making the experience smoother, less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.
Now, there’s an opportunity for you to be part of that.
Boat descending Foxton Locks
At 75ft high, Foxton Locks is the longest and steepest staircase flight in the UK and helping boaters through it is both rewarding and sociable. As a volunteer, you’ll be right at the heart of the action - meeting fellow boaters, sharing stories, offering guidance, and keeping this historic route running smoothly.
Whether you’re an experienced boater or simply someone who loves spending time by the water, you already understand the rhythm of canal life - and that makes you perfectly placed to support others.
Linny Beaumont, regional director, said: “With more people out boating, having volunteers who understand what it’s like to be on the water makes a real difference. Boaters helping boaters creates a fantastic atmosphere at Foxton and really enhances the experience for everyone passing through.”
You don’t need formal qualifications or previous volunteering experience - just a friendly attitude, willingness to learn and a bit of time to give. Full training is provided, and even one day a week can have a big impact during the busy season.
For many boaters, it’s also a chance to give something back to the network they enjoy - helping to keep things moving, supporting others, and playing a role in preserving the traditions that make canal boating so special.
And it’s not just about helping others - you’ll get plenty out of it too. From meeting like‑minded people to spending more time outdoors in one of the most beautiful spots on the network, it’s a rewarding way to stay connected to the waterways.
With thousands of volunteers already contributing across the canal network each year, their combined effort is helping to improve the experience for everyone on the water.
So next time you pass through Foxton, why not think about stepping ashore and getting involved? Your time, your experience, and your passion for boating could make all the difference.
Become a Trustee of the Inland Waterways Association
There are other waterway organisations that you could also volunteer for if you really want to get stuck in. Here’s a snippet from the IWA to whet your appetite:
‘We are looking to complement our existing Trustees and have identified the following skillsets that we think need strengthening:
Experience of engaging and enabling participation of younger people with the charity
Health and safety management
Funding/fundraising
Environment and sustainability
experience of restoration projects (not just waterways)
Marketing, membership and recruitment
‘We would also welcome applications from individuals to apply if they think they have experience that would be valuable to the Association beyond those mentioned above. For example, we would like younger people (18 and over) to apply who may have very relevant skills and experience for growing IWA today.
‘Candidates must be passionate about our campaigning: for sufficient funding for Britain’s waterways; the sustainable operation of navigations; restoration of closed waterways; and our work to make the waterways great places to live, work, travel, play, and for wildlife, nature recovery and mitigating climate change.’
Seeing a kingfisher is one of the most special moments you can have when boating along our canals and rivers - that bright flash of blue is a sure sign the waterway is alive and thriving.
Now, this much‑loved bird could even appear on our banknotes - but there’s not long left to make it happen.
We’re backing the kingfisher because it represents everything we care about: healthy waterways, thriving wildlife, and places people love.
If you agree, please don’t wait - voting closes on Friday 3 July, so this is your chance to have your say
Kingfisher in action
Maintenance, repair and restoration work this weekend
As someone who’s on or by the water more than most, you’ll know that things don’t always go to plan — and sometimes we have to step in and fix things that have unexpectedly broken.
When that happens, or we need to carry out a quick repair, we’ll get an update on our website as soon as we can. It’s always worth having a quick check when you’re planning your cruise, and again just before you set off. You can also find out how to get stoppage alerts straight to your smartphone in this article.
You can see where navigation is closed this weekend here.
If you’ve got a question about a specific closure, or you spot something that doesn’t look quite right, just get in touch — we’re happy to help.
Winter works consultation – have your say
As you know Each winter, when there’s typically less traffic on the waterways, we carry out essential maintenance and repairs to keep the network safe, reliable and ready for your cruising season ahead.
To complete this work safely, some stretches of canal and river - and occasionally towpaths - need to be temporarily closed. We know this can affect your plans, so we want to give you the chance to shape how and when this work happens.
That’s why we carry out a public consultation each year - giving you, as a boater, the opportunity to review proposed stoppages, highlight any concerns and help us minimise disruption wherever possible.
Round two opens 29 June
The first round of consultation has now closed and we’re currently reviewing all the feedback received.
The second round of consultation opens on 29 June, when updated plans will be published. This is your next opportunity to check the proposals, see what’s changed, and have your say before anything is finalised.
If you’re planning winter cruising, continuous cruising routes, or mooring moves, this is a key moment to make sure the programme works for you as much as possible.
What Happens Next
29 June – Revised notices published (Round Two opens)
24 July – Consultation closes
10 August – Final winter programme confirmed
Until the final programme is published, all works remain provisional and may change based on feedback from boaters like you.
Winter Works Dates
Pre‑Christmas works: 2 November – 18 December 2026
Post‑Christmas works: 4 January – 12 March 2027
Why your input matters
Your feedback helps us:
Reduce disruption to cruising plans
Better coordinate closures across the network
Prioritise works that matter most to boaters
Keep the waterways open and navigable when you need them
When round two opens on 29 June, you’ll be able to view the updated plans and share your thoughts.
Make sure you take a look—your experience on the water can help shape the final programme!
Islington Council launches consultation on its Smoke Control Order
If you regularly boat and moor in the borough of Islington (in London) then you may want to respond to the below from Islington Borough Council:
‘The proposal seeks to extend the existing Smoke Control Area to include emissions from moored vessels along the borough’s waterways. As you will be aware, the legislation does not prohibit the use of solid fuels altogether, but enables local authorities to require the use of authorised fuels or DEFRA-approved appliances, and to restrict visible smoke emissions. The aim is to improve air quality and protect the health of those living on and alongside the canal, as well as people using it for walking, cycling, and recreation, including at nearby sensitive locations such as schools and care settings.
‘The council has worked closely with the Canal & River Trust over a number of years to address air quality and environmental issues on the Regent’s Canal, and this proposal builds on that ongoing collaboration. We are keen to ensure that the Trust, and the communities you support, are fully aware of the consultation and have the opportunity to contribute.
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Last Edited: 19 June 2026
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