A Thriving Kennet & Avon Canal

 Canals are not relics from the Industrial Revolution, but active, shared spaces at the heart of our community. Spend just twenty minutes beside the Kennet & Avon and you’ll see families out walking, cyclists passing through, paddleboarders out on the water, and an array of wildlife that has made it home. 

For over two centuries, it has connected local businesses across West Berkshire while acting as a safe haven for local habitats - a treasured part of our local heritage that must be protected. 

I recently joined a meeting of the Waterways APPG to discuss the challenges facing our wider canal network. Across the country, ageing infrastructure, sewage, and the growing impact of climate change are placing strain on infrastructure that millions of people enjoy and rely on every year. In just the past few years, flooding and droughts have affected over 15% of the system, leaving the Canal and River Trust (CRT) to install multi-million-pound repairs. 

These pressures are escalating at a time when canals are more popular than ever. In fact, there are more boats using these waterways than at the height of the industrial revolution. That’s why, after tabling a Early Day Motion highlighting their importance and joining last week’s Paddle Out Protest in Newbury, improving canals cannot be separated from our wider fight to clean up our waterways and the unacceptable state of sewage pollution.  

As Liberal Democrats, we firmly believe everyone should have access to green spaces and with 8 million people living less than 1km away from a canal or river, there is huge potential to expand walking, wheeling, and cycling routes for residents. Across Europe, there has been real success through the creation of projects such as Voie Verte - by supporting grassroots campaigns and developing strong local partnerships, we can do the same.  

Here in Newbury and West Berkshire, I am really encouraged to see this work taking place through the “Reimagining the Kennet & Avon Waterside” partnership between West Berkshire Council, CRT, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, and Greenham Trust. Improving towpaths and cycle routes around Newbury will create valuable green space right on our doorstep, support local businesses, and protect local biodiversity that is at risk of terminal decline.  

Flourishing waterways should be part of a greener and healthier future for West Berkshire. By continuing to work alongside local volunteers, organisations, and the CRT, we can protect the Kennet & Avon Canal for generations to come.