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British Waterways responds to drought conditions

13th Jan 2012

Following a very dry year, British Waterways is investing in a programme of works to help ensure water supplies will last as long as possible through the 2012 main boating season.

Many parts of southern and central Britain have experienced the driest twelve months since records began. Across parts of the South and the Midlands, groundwater tables and reservoir holdings are considerably lower than normal for this time of year. Given the amount of rain that has fallen so far this winter (the time of year when water supplies typically recover), British Waterways (BW) is investing £700,000 in making use of alternative supplies to help replenish reservoir levels and conserve the available water.

BW’s specialist Water Management team has identified nearly 30 short-term, localised, schemes. These include prioritising the clearing of feeders, implementing new pumping regimes and raising weir boards. Works on the Grand Union Canal Leicester Line will include installing new gate liners on seven key locks.

Efficient use of water

British Waterways director Vince Moran said; “It’s no secret that parts of England have had the driest year for over 100 years which is posing problems for water suppliers, farmers and possibly a proportion of our canal network.

“The dry conditions have prompted water supply companies to apply for drought permits in anticipation of possible water shortages and, whilst much of the nation’s waterway network will not be significantly affected, BW is also taking early steps to prepare canals in the South and Midlands.

“The simple truth is that, as a nation, we’ve just not had enough rain. There’s not much we can do about that but what we can do is look into alternative supplies and make even more efficient use of what we do have. We’ve identified a package of schemes in the Midlands, South East and on the Kennet & Avon Canal which will help us to achieve just that.”

National boating and trade organisations are being kept up to date and have an important role to play in promoting efficient use of water to their members.

Advances in technology

Vince continues: “It’s unlikely that these measures will solve the problem in its entirety, and we’ll be working closely with boating groups, waterway businesses and volunteers throughout the winter and beyond, but by implementing these measures now we’ll put the waterways in the best possible position for the year ahead.

“The key message is that we don’t want anyone to panic and at this stage we’re not advising any private or holiday hire boaters to change their cruising plans. This year is likely to be a challenge but if we all pull together and everyone plays their part I’m hopeful that we can keep things running as smoothly as possible.”

Tim Parker, Chairman of APCO (the Association of Pleasure Craft Operators) commented; “During 2011, BW managed its water resources very successfully, despite the lowest rainfall in history across parts of the system. We have talked to BW to see how we can help reduce the use of water in those areas and are planning to have a further meeting along with members of TYHA (The Yacht Harbour Association) and CBOA (Commercial Boat Owners Association), in order to provide concrete help in reducing water usage during the season in any problem areas.

"BW has made huge advances over the past years in their efficient use of water, both through technology and back pumping. We are also very impressed with the extra money that they are spending this winter to alleviate any possible problems in 2012, and will provide any help that we can."

Last updated: 16/01/2012

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