Waterways upkeep call to users

The Department for the Environment Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed its intention to sub-contract the management of about 2,500 miles of English and Welsh canals, and navigable river stretches connected to them, to a new charity which would do the job the National Trust does for land and buildings.

The plan was floated last year but details have just been published for consultation, with a possible launch from next April.

Environment Minister Richard Benyon said: “This would secure the waterways’ financial future by enabling the new body to access new sources of income and greater public support.”

British Waterways, which manages most of the network, lobbied for the change and has told its staff it is good news. A spokesman said: “We are not spending as much as we should to keep a 250-year-old network up to scratch, although it is being used more and more.”

The Department quoted a range of consumer and business bodies in favour of the move.

Rex Walden, chairman of the Residential Boat Owners Association, said: “It is exactly what the waterways need. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity and has the potential to genuinely place the hands of the users on the levers of power.”

David Pearce, chairman of the Association of Waterways Cruising Clubs, said: “I would ask everyone with an interest, however slight, to participate positively in this consultation exercise.”

See www.defra.gov.uk/consult/waterways-1103/