Creating canals for everyone to enjoy

24 November 2022

Developing connections along the two canal corridors within Powys is the focus of the Canals, Communities and Wellbeing project and, whether you're a resident or a visitor to Powys, we'd love to know what you think about our canals.

Until 11 January 2023 we're gathering your thoughts and comments so that we can shape our future plans around your ideas and needs. Whether that's what you'd like to see improved, or what currently prevents you from making the most of the canals and their surrounding areas.

Working within a corridor of 5km along each side of the Montgomery and Monmouthshire and Brecon canals, the aim of the Canals, Communities and Wellbeing project is to increase opportunities for public access, recreation and rural active travel to support enhanced wellbeing. But we need your views on how to do this. It could be improvements to the towpaths, canal access and public rights of way, creating or enhancing wildlife areas, providing opportunities for people to connect with nature along our canals or simply adding more seating or picnic areas for everyone to enjoy.

"We are extremely lucky here is Powys to have two historically important and beautiful canals running through our county." explains Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys. "Not only do they play a crucial role in creating incredible nature-rich habitats for all kinds of wildlife, but they also provide a unique place for residents and visitors to enjoy.

"By joining forces with other key partners as part of the Canals, Communities and Wellbeing project, we are determined to make sure that these remarkable waterways are accessible for all and can provide opportunities for everyone to experience.

"In order to do this, it is important to us to find out what you think. What is it that makes these spaces special for you? Is there anything that stops you from visiting the canals? What could be done to encourage more people to use the outdoor space along the canal corridor? Have your say and share your thoughts with us through our online survey."

Running until May 2023, this collaborative project is being led by Powys County Council's Countryside Access and Recreation Team, working in partnership with Glandŵr Cymru, the Canal & River Trust in Wales, Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust and Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. The activity will complement other initiatives being delivered by the partner organisations and is supported through the Welsh Government Rural Communities - Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.

Please share your thoughts and ideas online: www.haveyoursaypowys.wales/canals-communities-and-well-being

Image: Pencelli, Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal