British waterways campaign launches boater survey

The Fund Britain’s Waterways (FBW) campaign has launched a comprehensive survey to gather insights from boaters regarding their experiences while cruising in 2023.

IWA says this initiative is a vital component in its ongoing campaign to secure funding for all waterways and navigation authorities across Great Britain.

The survey seeks to understand the nuances of boaters’ experiences, focusing on the impact of various aspects of waterway conditions on their enjoyment and the ability to complete planned routes within the allotted time. Boaters are encouraged to share both positive and negative experiences, highlighting instances such as efficiently resolved stoppages.

“This survey serves as a pivotal tool in our campaign,” said Sue O’Hare, Deputy Chair of IWA. “Not only will it provide us with valuable insights into the recent condition of our waterways, but it will also establish a benchmark for future assessments, particularly in the event of potential funding reductions.”

Boaters are urged to participate in the survey, which can be accessed on the IWA website. The survey guarantees anonymity, ensuring that the data collected remains confidential.

The survey is open until 29 March 2024. Results are planned for public release in the first half of 2024 and will be shared with navigation authorities to inform decision-making and resource allocation.

The Fund Britain’s Waterways campaign has been formed by a coalition of organisations who are campaigning to stop Britain’s network of canals and navigable rivers deteriorating because of inadequate funding.

 The campaign argues that, at a time of unprecedented challenges caused by the climate emergency and high inflation, the government is failing to respond.

Management of Britain’s 5,000 miles of navigable inland waterways is fragmented. The Canal & River Trust (CRT) has the greatest responsibility, covering 2,000 miles. It is already in a difficult financial situation with a fixed government grant of £52.6m per year until 2027. Defra was expected to confirm funding for 2028 onwards in July 2022 but has not yet made an announcement.

Other waterways face similar problems: the Environment Agency is operating with £22m per year, one-third of its identified requirement, and Scottish Canals has over £70m of maintenance work outstanding.

The consequences of failing to maintain waterway infrastructure were clearly shown by the evacuation of 1,500 local residents in case the dam at Toddbrook Reservoir collapsed in 2019. FBW says this event has shown the need for increased spend on CRT reservoirs of up to £25m per year.

In January, FBW announced a weekend of action over the UK’s May Day holiday weekend, from 4-6 May 2024. The weekend aims to raise awareness of the challenges facing Britain’s canals and rivers.