A new restoration structure is now operational within the Inland Waterways Association so we can promote this activity wherever we can and have the most impact.
IWA’S new Restoration Panel is our new forum for knowledge exchange on this, and we want the panel to be complementary and contributory to other networking and knowledge-sharing forums.
The first meeting was highly successful, and with Andy Keane as chair, it focused on restoring our waterways. This takes more than being aware of individual projects; groups must work together. Our focus is on bringing all restoration groups together, building capacity across the sector and creating stronger connections between those working to improve our canals and rivers.
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We are continuing to engage with the Canal & River Trust, Environment Agency, local authorities, MPs and other key decision-makers, making sure the case for restoration is heard.
Most importantly, the day was about how to listen to and work alongside local groups. By sharing experience, understanding the challenges they face and strengthening communication in the restoration community, we can help build the momentum needed to bring more waterways back to life and maintain all others. Regular readers will also remember the detailed engagement IWA devoted to constructively criticising the CRT’s Restoration Delivery Plan, making it a more positive, practical and delivery-focused document that better reflected the ambitions expected of a major national charity. There is a wealth of knowledge sitting in various restoration groups, and it is IWA’s job to bring that knowledge together. The main barrier to waterway restoration projects making progress has been the availability – or lack of – of third-party grants and other funding, as indicated by the responses to questions asked about barriers and lack of resources.
Volunteer recruitment and knowledge of biodiversity and other ecological issues were identified as the next most significant areas where organisations were lacking resources. This may affect organisations’ ability to deliver projects even if sufficient funding was made available to them.
Presentations were given by the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust on the White Horse Reservoir, by Stafford River Way Link, and about The Northern Canals Association
One of the conclusions of the day was that IWA will continue to focus on building capacity in the restoration sector. To that end, there is now a new commitment, fresh structures and the funds to appoint a waterways restoration officer. This panel is part of our changed approach to prioritising this important area of work, uniquely led by IWA.
