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The charity making life better by water

Economic impact of our canal network

Our economic contribution can be summarised through three impact channels: construction and maintenance work, domestic and international boating expenditure, and towpath users.

Two people smile as they push a pushchair along the towpath.

We are responsible for the management and upkeep of approximately 2,000 miles of canals and towpaths, navigable rivers, docks, and reservoirs across England and Wales. Our canal network includes 2,963 bridges, 1,575 locks, 276 aqueducts and thousands of miles of towpaths, which provide important spaces for leisure activities such as walking and cycling.

Our waterways therefore function not only as public amenities, but also as vital infrastructure that supports jobs, spending and economic activity across multiple channels.

Last Edited: 23 June 2026

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