Glandŵr Cymru unveils new prospectus highlighting the value of Wales’s waterways

At the event, which was attended by more than 70 guests, Glandŵr Cymru set out a renewed vision for waterways in Wales, showcasing how they have evolved from industrial transport routes into vital public assets that support economic growth, wellbeing and nature recovery.

Attendees heard from four different speakers and had the opportunity to view the new prospectus. Llyr Gruffydd MS, cabinet minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, was the guest speaker alongside Canal & River Trust chief executive Campbell Robb, Bwrdd Glandŵr Cymru chair Fay Jones-Poole, and regional director Ben Cottam.

Speakers highlighted the important role canals already play, and will continue to play, in supporting sustainable economic growth, improving biodiversity and helping tackle the nature and climate emergencies. There were also reflections on how they can support the Welsh population’s health and wellbeing as places for people to be active and to connect with nature, while also offering support for resilience through water management and national infrastructure.

Ben Cottam, regional director at Glandŵr Cymru, said: “Our canals deliver significant benefits for people, communities, heritage, the economy and nature across Wales. As a charity, we are committed to protecting these historic waterways so they can continue to provide those benefits for generations to come.

“This prospectus demonstrates the vital contribution canals make to Wales and sets out a vision for how we can work with partners to maximise their potential in the years ahead.

“The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal alone generates up to £30 million of value for the region each year and is the most visited attraction in the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Meanwhile, our waterways run through two of Wales’s four UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

“We are grateful to everyone who attended the launch and look forward to continuing to work with partners across Wales to ensure our waterways remain thriving, resilient assets for future generations.”

Glandŵr Cymru manages 76 miles of waterways across Wales as part of an overall 2,000-mile network in Wales and England. The Llangollen Canal is home to the world-famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the Montgomery Canal is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation and is currently undergoing a 4.4-mile UK government supported restoration to bring growth to mid-Wales.

The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal is recognised as one of Britain’s most picturesque and scenic canals as it winds through the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. The Swansea Canal boasts a rich industrial heritage, having helped drive the Industrial Revolution in South Wales by linking the Swansea Valley with the sea.