Restoration of 36 miles of neglected canals in the heart of the Cotswolds – the largest, most complex and costly project of its kind currently underway in the UK – will take another step forward this summer.
ATTENTION is now turning to the excavation of the long-awaited ‘Missing Mile,’ due to start this summer, meaning the project is still on track to meet its reconnection target in 2029 – exactly 250 years after the navigation first opened.
Following November’s announcement of significant funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF), as reported, the Cotswold Canals Trust and its partners have made significant progress in phase 1B of the project. It focuses on reconnecting the Stroudwater Navigation between Stonehouse (Ocean Railway Bridge) and Saul Junction on the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal – a distance of about 3.7 miles.
“Prior to securing additional funding, work had already progressed significantly on section three (The Ocean to Eastington), funded through an NLHF grant in 2020,” said a statement. “This section is now largely complete, with the next step being the installation of new lock gates at Pike, Dock and John Robinson Locks. These innovative modular steel gates offer a longer lifespan than traditional timber and can be installed with volunteer support, ensuring long-term sustainability.
“Attention now turns to section two (the Missing Mile) and section one (A38 roundabout to Saul Junction), with a target reconnection date of 2029, marking 250 years since the Stroudwater Navigation first opened.”
Work on the Missing Mile is progressing through final design and planning stages. Preparatory works are extensive, said the CCT, and include diverting public footpaths, establishing secure site compounds, creating access routes on both sides of the M5, and installing safety and security measures. Vegetation clearance has been managed in partnership with the Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust to minimise environmental impact.
“Ground conditions present a particular challenge, with high water tables and mixed clay and gravel soils requiring careful water management. Systems will be installed to control groundwater and prevent silt movement, while gravel excavated from the route will be reused in towpaths and a planned 44-berth mooring basin near the A38. Two new locks are also being designed, with construction involving reinforced concrete bases and chamber walls,” the CCT said.
Elsewhere, work continues on section one, including plans to divert an oil pipeline beneath the canal near Fromebridge, and proposals for a new lift bridge at Walk Bridge to replace the existing weight-restricted structure.
Delivery of Phase 1B is led by a dedicated team of engineers, staff and volunteers. Alongside the Cotswold Canals Trust, key partners include Stroud District Council, Gloucestershire County Council, Canal & River Trust, Stroud Valleys Canal Company, Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and Stroud Valleys Project. With around 80 volunteers directly involved in restoration work and over 300 supporting the Trust more widely – this project is a testament to the power of community-led regeneration.
With momentum building, Phase 1B is moving steadily towards its goal: restoring navigation, reconnecting communities, and bringing this historic waterway back to life.
