We fully support the sentiment expressed in your editorial published on August 22nd. Canals and rivers are not just a part of Britain’s landscape; they are an integral element of our way of life. Surprisingly, over 8.5 million individuals, which accounts for nearly 15% of the population, live on or within 1 kilometer of a waterway. Additionally, half of the population resides within 5 kilometers of these waterways, with a disproportionate number residing in urban areas and areas characterized by deprivation and diversity. When we consider the 10 million people who utilize these waterways for various purposes such as business, leisure, wellness, and commuting, along with the thousands of individuals who live on canal boats, it becomes evident that well-maintained, accessible waterways are indispensable to all of us. Moreover, they play a crucial role in Britain’s economy, ecology, and overall well-being.
In terms of economic contributions, boat-based tourism and leisure activities generate £2.5 billion annually. Furthermore, canals and rivers facilitate the movement of thousands of tonnes of freight, resulting in reduced carbon emissions and fewer vehicles on the roads. These waterways serve as blue-green corridors that link fragmented habitats while simultaneously enhancing biodiversity and wildlife.
Recognizing the immense value these benefits offer, as well as the pressing need to safeguard the network against extreme weather events, more than 70 organizations representing hundreds of thousands of users and supporters of canals and rivers have joined the “Fund Britain’s Waterways” campaign. The goal is to urge the government to protect the public benefit and natural capital provided by our waterways.
Your editorial correctly portrays Britain’s canals as a national success story and emphasizes the need for continued national funding. However, we believe that the beautiful surroundings and diverse wildlife that these canals traverse should be regarded as part of our shared wealth and warrant appropriate funding. The presence of picturesque views and wildlife significantly enhances property values in the vicinity. For instance, the ongoing restoration of our local Stroudwater canal, which is being reconnected to Gloucester, presents a unique development opportunity and greatly contributes to local well-being.
Furthermore, the challenges facing our inland waterways provide yet another reason to impose a charge on residential properties located in areas that benefit from environmental restoration. The revenue generated from this charge should be allocated to local councils to support the funding of local infrastructure. This proposal aligns with the broader objective of reforming property taxation.
Let us not overlook the joy that our unique canal network brings to those of us who reside or vacation on them, as well as those who walk the towpaths, fish, canoe, paddleboard, and observe the diverse array of birds and wildlife that call these waterways home. Our canals are a national treasure, both for people and wildlife. It is heartbreaking to contemplate the government’s potential decision to let them fall into disrepair due to insufficient resources. In addition to the potential loss of our canal network, we are already witnessing the deterioration of essential services such as the NHS, local bus services, social care, children’s services, and public amenities. Must we allow the same fate to befall our beloved canals?
At a time when the climate crisis is causing floods, wildfires, and water shortages in various regions, we must acknowledge the crucial role that canals and rivers play in transporting water across the country. Their significance will only grow in the years to come.
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