Local companies step up to support stranded boaters after Whitchurch canal breach

In the aftermath of the major breach on the Llangollen Canal near Whitchurch on 22 December 2025, which left boats stranded and families displaced just days before Christmas, two local canal operators – Cheshire Cat Narrowboat Holidays and Norbury Wharf Boats – have stepped forward to provide emergency housing and support to those affected.

Laura Fisher, head of housing, resettlement and independent living at Shropshire Council, said:

“The support offered by Cheshire Cat Narrowboats and Norbury Wharf Boats was invaluable. This partnership ensured vulnerable residents were given the best option to meet their needs during a critical time, and we are deeply appreciative of their generosity and community spirit.”

Cheshire Cat Narrowboat Holidays are located at Overwater Marina in Audlem. They sprang into action within hours of the breach by quickly preparing two boats from the winter fleet to accommodate displaced liveaboard boaters.

Two narrowboats, each equipped with central heating, flush toilets, hot and cold water, hobs, an oven, a fridge, and fully fitted galleys, were swiftly prepared to provide comfortable housing for those displaced by the canal breach.

The boats were fully bedded, warmed, and ready to welcome families by approximately 6:30pm on the evening of 22 December 2025. Although one of the households has been able to return to their own boat, Cheshire Cat Narrowboat Holidays had provided the boats free of charge.

Cheshire Cat Narrowboat Holidays said:

“We were delighted to step in and support the boating community during the Whitchurch canal breach. At Cheshire Cat Narrowboats, we understand how important these waterways are to people’s lives, and we were more than happy to provide safe, comfortable accommodation to help those affected.”

Norbury Wharf, based at Norbury Junction on the Shropshire Union Canal near Newport also offered boats for those displaced by the embankment collapse.

James Owen, Shropshire Council ‘s Cabinet member for housing and lrisure, said:

“We are incredibly grateful to Cheshire Cat Narrowboats and Norbury Wharf Boats for their swift and generous response following the Whitchurch canal breach.

"Their willingness to provide safe, warm accommodation for displaced boaters demonstrates the strength of community spirit in Shropshire.

"This support has made a real difference to those affected, and we thank them wholeheartedly for stepping up at such a critical time.”