We welcome Senedd debate on the future of the Mon & Brec

Members from across the Senedd heard how the canal supports almost £30 million in annual economic activity through boating and tourism and how it urgently needs a sustainable solution to secure its water supply. This follows the implementation of legislative restrictions that have come into force which limit the canal’s historic source of water from the River Usk.

Alongside its heritage and economic value, Senedd Members spoke about the canal’s vital environmental role. They noted the value of the canal’s ecology alongside that of the River Usk, forming two interconnected ecosystems that both deserve protection. They also heard how the navigable canal provides unique environmental benefits, including acting as a wildlife corridor and supporting diverse habitats that would be lost if it were allowed to run dry. The canal is one of the most popular walking routes within the Brecon Beacons National Park and the Senedd heard how it provides access to nature for those in urban areas along the canal.

Earlier this year the Canal & River Trust secured a short-term emergency supply from Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water to stop the canal running dry, but Members reminded the Senedd that the cost of this temporary measure is not sustainable for the charity.

Richard Parry, chief executive of the Canal & River Trust, said: “I welcome the comments from all who took part in the debate and the response from Huw Irranca-Davies MS, stating that the Welsh Government is fully committed to enabling a workable solution. The debate shows how much the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal matters to people across Wales and the role of the canal as a core part of the nation’s heritage, economy, and natural environment.

“The future of the canal hangs in the balance so I welcome the commitment from the Deputy First Minister to bring all parties and stakeholders together to ensure that this historic canal remains a lifeline for nature and continues to support jobs, tourism and the health and wellbeing of so many people."

“The emergency measures we’ve put in place are only in place temporarily. We urgently need the support of the Welsh Government to secure a long-term solution so the Mon & Brec can keep enriching lives and communities across Wales for generations to come.”

Representatives from the Canal & River Trust attended the Senedd debate and joined a rally beforehand organised by the campaign group Preserve & Protect the Mon & Brec Canal. Attended by well over 50 people including local businesses, boaters, canal volunteers, and supported too by some Senedd members, it reflects the widespread public support and passion the canal inspires across Wales.

Richard continued: “Thank you to Preserve & Protect the Mon & Brec, and all others who have advocated for the canal over the past months. We’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of support it has generated. It emphasises the special place this historic navigable waterway has in so many people’s hearts.”

The Trust has pledged to keep working with the Welsh Government and other stakeholders to secure the canal’s future.