Whitchurch canal breach sparks plea to protect historic waterways
The recent breach in the Llangollen Canal near Whitchurch has brought into stark relief the importance of preserving our heritage, says charity Montgomery Waterway Restoration Trust.
According to Trust Chairman Michael Limbrey, the breach and subsequent media debate about the country’s ageing canal network should be cause to reflect on the UK’s canals and what they mean to people.
“We are all used to seeing investment in historic buildings such as castles and palaces to make sure they remain standing for future generations to enjoy and the same should be true for canals,” he says.
“Our canals are just as much a part of our heritage as stately homes or Roman settlements and need the same investment and ongoing care.
“Whether it’s the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct near Llangollen, the canal yard at Ellesmere in Shropshire or the Caen Hill lock flight in Wiltshire, these structures are part of our collective history just as churches, castles and royal palaces are.”
There has been debate online and in the media about whether ongoing restoration of abandoned canals should continue in light of the cost of maintenance but says Michael Limbrey the same argument is rarely used for other historic structures. Indeed canals are often part of the local water network and can’t just be left.
“Our canals are a living reminder of our industrial heritage and provide a great benefit to local communities across Britain. Residents and visitors can walk by the water, paddle a canoe or kayak, fish or watch the wildlife. Canals are not being restored just so ‘a few boaters’ enjoy their lifestyle, but to offer real benefits to millions of people in our communities.
“Visit a canal towpath and you will see people out for a walk which is good for their well-being. Boats bring the canal to life and can even prevent the waterway being clogged by the more aggressive plants. It is even easier to maintain a navigable canal. Finally, canals are a valued part of the tourist economy, offering regeneration opportunities for jobs and businesses. There are so many places across the country where canals bring these benefits to their communities.
“There is a legitimate debate to be had,” he added “as to how we fund the ongoing upkeep of our natural and built heritage but it’s not right to single out canals as being in some way different to magnificent structures such as heritage steam railways, Ironbridge or Brunel’s SS Great Britain, let alone publicly accessible countryside or parks.
“We encourage everyone to get out and celebrate their local canal in 2026 – perhaps even join a canal society or organisation to show their support – and we hope our governments will recognise the massive contribution canals make in terms of tourism, wildlife and well-being.”
