CAMPAIGNERS and supporters of the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust are calling for urgent public backing to ensure the proposed White Horse Reservoir includes the full navigable reinstatement of the historic Wilts & Berks Canal around the reservoir and to the River Thames.
Previously known as South East Strategic Reservoir Option (SESRO)
The trust is warning that a once-in-a-generation opportunity could be lost unless canal restoration is fully incorporated into the reservoir’s final Development Consent Order (DCO) plans.
It has been working with Thames Water and reservoir representatives to demonstrate the environmental, social and economic benefits that full canal restoration could deliver alongside the reservoir project, including new wildlife habitats, biodiversity gains, economic growth and tourism.
Figures presented by the trust indicate that the restored canal corridor could contribute annual benefits including £7.7 million in economic activity and £5.4 million in NHS savings through increased physical activity.
The trust said: “We believe the reservoir project presents a unique opportunity to create a connected green and blue infrastructure corridor that would benefit communities across Oxfordshire, Wiltshire and beyond for generations, but time is running out.
“The current planning programme means key design and consultation decisions will soon be finalised before submission of the DCO application.
“This is about making sure the biggest infrastructure project in the region also delivers the biggest possible public benefit.
“If the reservoir proceeds without full canal reinstatement being secured now, the opportunity may never come again.
“We are asking residents, businesses, councillors, environmental groups and supporters of active travel and heritage to stand with the trust and help ensure the full Wilts & Berks Canal restoration is included within the final plans.”
