TUCKED between the River Thames and the River Severn lies one of the most ambitious and inspiring heritage projects in England – the full restoration of the Cotswold Canals. At the heart of this effort is the Cotswold Canals Trust (CCT), a passionate, volunteer-driven charity working tirelessly to breathe life back into 36 miles of historic waterways, once central to the region’s trade and industry.
Founded in 1972, the trust has grown into a vibrant organisation of more than 6500 members and more than 400 active volunteers. Their goal? To reconnect communities, restore natural habitats and revive the Stroudwater Navigation and Thames & Severn Canal as fully navigable and ecologically rich waterways.
Current work: Eastington’s historic locks and aqueduct
Right now, some of the most exciting restoration work is happening in Eastington, near Stonehouse. Here, volunteers are focusing on reviving two important locks – Dock Lock and John Robinson Lock – as well as the impressive Oldbury Aqueduct.
At Oldbury Aqueduct, the base has been laid for the new pipework, forming the foundation for future water flow. One of this month’s proudest moments came when the bund separating the Oldbury Brook and John Robinson Lock was removed – a major step that allowed the team to ‘cut through’ to the lock. This achievement was met with celebration from volunteers on the ground, who have spent months working towards this breakthrough.
The aqueduct itself, built in the 18th century, once allowed canal boats to pass safely over Oldbury Brook. As part of its restoration, the original stonework is being carefully inspected and reinforced, ensuring that it can continue to carry water – and history – across the brook for generations to come.
Meanwhile, just downstream at Dock Lock, work is progressing steadily. A new concrete ladder recess is taking shape, overgrown vegetation has been cleared and essential repairs are under way. Fencing along the lock pound has also been repaired, improving safety and visual appeal.
Dock Lock, once known as Court Orchard Lock, was completed in 1778 and later renamed after a dry dock was built alongside it in 1821. This dry dock served as a key maintenance point for canal boats during the waterway’s heyday. However, following the canal’s closure in 1954, the lock fell into disrepair and rubble from the demolished Pike Bridge was dumped into the lock chamber. Volunteers began the painstaking process of clearing this debris in the early 1990s, and their efforts today are finally bringing the lock back to life.
Join the Cotswold Canals Trust
Whether you’re passionate about canals, history or protecting local wildlife, becoming a member is a great way to get involved. To learn more, become a member or find out how to get involved, visit www.cotswoldcanals.org; you can also catch a recent feature about the trust on BBC Countryfile, now available on BBC iPlayer.
