The funding from the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is crucial because it will help us complete works to upgrade vital reservoirs and keep our canal waters flowing long into tomorrow. For all our Friends and supporters, it’s a positive sign that the Government is willing to contribute and help keep our canals alive, both now and in the future.
Our chief executive, Campbell Robb, welcomed the news, saying: “Increased extreme weather events and rising maintenance costs have placed additional strain on the nation's historic canal infrastructure, and this funding from the government recognises the important role they are able to play in helping to build resilience. A resilient network is perfectly placed to help meet many of the challenges of modern society.”
The funds will be used this year to support major works on the Peak Forest Canal, Tame Valley Canal, and the lift bridge connecting London Docklands to the River Thames.
Many of our vital reservoirs will also benefit, strengthening their resilience and ensuring they continue to supply water to key waterways, including Birmingham Canal Navigations, Grand Union Canal, Huddersfield Narrow Canal, Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Peak Forest Canal, and Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal. This investment will extend the lifespan of critical canal assets and, in doing so, reduce future major repair costs.
