THE Canal & River Trust has announced that a further 53 miles of waterways have been awarded the Green Flag status.
Organised by Keep Britain Tidy this results in 592 miles now holding the international quality mark for parks and green spaces, with the trust stating the Green Flags further demonstrate the important role the 250 years old canal network plays for local communities, bringing nature into the heart of the UK’s towns and cities.
Entire Staffs & Worcs Canal
The entire 46 miles of the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal (pictured) has been awarded a Green Flag for the first time, along with the Stourbridge Canal and Town Arm, also in the West Midlands. These are added to the trust’s existing Green Flag stretches, which range from once unloved stretches of urban canal that have been transformed into pleasant, wildlife-rich places in the centre of towns and cities like Manchester, Sheffield and Walsall, to more rural locations such as the Kennet & Avon and Monmouthshire & Brecon canals.
The trust adds—The spread of Green Flags reflects both the increasing importance of the waterways as vibrant green spaces in the nation’s towns and cities and their longstanding value in providing popular, accessible beauty spots across the country.
Duel crisis
However, the nation’s canals are facing a crisis, with the government recently (10 July) announcing deep cuts in funding for canals in the future. The trust is calling on people to support their local waterway and help #KeepCanalsAlive.
Richard Parry, Chief Executive at Canal & River Trust, explained:
“These Green Flags showcase the breadth of what the waterways have to offer: free, accessible green space on the doorstep of millions. Our historic canals are places in our towns and cities where people can relax, get close to nature and feel the health benefits of spending time by water.
“Caring for a 2,000-mile canal network is a challenge, with our ageing waterways vulnerable to changing weather patterns, daily wear and tear, and perennial problems like litter and encroaching vegetation. This impressive number of Green Flags is a testament to everyone who works or volunteers with the Trust, including those in the community who play such a vital part in helping to look after their local canal."