Inland Waterways

A CRT Impact Report demonstrates how the UK’s unique network of historic canals, a legacy of the Industrial Revolution, are being repurposed to address some of the greatest challenges facing society. The interconnected and ecologically rich man-made waterways are today playing a key role in addressing the UK’s biodiversity crisis, improving public health and helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The Canal & River Trust (CRT), the charity that cares for 2,000 miles of waterways across England and Wales, has published an Impact Report that shows the nation’s canal network is proving more relevant than ever. The Report also showcases the charity’s commitment to keeping canals open and alive in the face of some serious threats. Continue reading “CRT Impact Report says historic canals championed as solutions to UK’s modern challenges”

Over the past 30 years there have been significant changes in the use of the 2,000-mile canal network in the UK managed by the Canal & River Trust. The Trust has announced it has established a new Commission to review the legal framework around boat licensing, to explore whether it is appropriate for the network’s future.

The Commission will start its review in January and is expected to run until September 2025. Continue reading “Canal & River Trust appoints independently led Commission to review future framework for boat licensing”

It was a year of record spend on charitable activity, but one that saw the continued effect of climate change taking its toll on the Trust’s ageing canal infrastructure. The waterways movement came together to raise the profile of the considerable benefits to society delivered by the Canal & River Trust and its historic canal network following an announcement about future funding cuts by government.

Work to repair and strengthen the resilience of the canal network during the year included almost 450 planned engineering projects, at a cost of around £70 million. Delivering statutory safety measures at the charity’s large reservoirs, critical for navigation and in protecting Continue reading “Canal & River Trust 2023/24 Annual Report & Accounts published”

The Canal & River Trust has published a report for partners, funders and supporters of the UK’s canal network showcasing the benefits delivered by the Trust and its canals. The Impact Report entitled Transforming Places and Enriching Lives, tells the stories of how canals make a positive impact on people’s lives and help contribute towards some of the most significant challenges facing society.

Building upon an earlier study that aggregates the social value and economic benefits of canals to society, the Transforming Places and Enriching Lives Report brings to life the stories and testimonies, partnerships and projects that sit behind the monetary values. In Continue reading “Transforming Places and Enriching Lives Report by the Canal & River Trust”