Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal water abstraction

We've secured an emergency supply of water this summer to keep the canal topped up for boats and for the benefit of local people and wildlife.

This is after restrictions to the canal’s historic water supply from the River Usk came into force at the end of last year, exacerbated by the unseasonably dry start to 2025.

What has happened?

Since the canal was first built 225 years ago, it’s depended on water abstracted from the River Usk and its tributaries. Our abstractions were not regulated, but in 2017, our exemption from the Water Resources Act 1991 was removed, requiring us to apply for water abstraction licenses.

We appealed against the conditions attached to two licenses, raising concerns about limits placed on water supply, with consequences for the natural environment and local economy. The recent result of these appeals means we’re now required to severely limit water abstractions to the levels set out in the licences.

The River Usk at Brecon is the main feed to the canal and provides around 80-90% of the water required to meet water demands.

The campaign to keep the ‘Mon & Brec’ alive has already gained support as people found out about the threat to the canal.

A petition calling upon the Welsh Government to help find a sustainable future for the canal has already been signed by thousands of people. This helps illustrate the strength of public support for the canal.

What are we doing?

We are now working with Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) and other stakeholders to explore other water supply options. We've secured an emergency short-term supply of water from DCWW during the dry weather in April, however this is only for a short-term period and has seen us reallocate funding from elsewhere that will have consequences for our charity's programme of maintenance in other parts of our network.

We are working with Welsh Government to raise awareness of the impact a restricted or closed canal could have on people, the local area, economy and wildlife.

We’ll continue communicating with boaters, local businesses and stakeholders to provide them with the latest information.

The petition set up for this issue to be debated in the Senedd by Welsh Government, has successfully passed the 10,000 signatories required, and we are looking forward to an informed debate that reflects the strength of public support for the canal.

You can add your support by signing the petition.