Campaign to Protect Bromsgrove's Canals Blocked By Labour and Conservative Councillors

The campaign to protect Bromsgrove's canals from funding cuts has hit a stumbling block after Labour and Conservative councillors failed to support a motion opposing the cuts. This is despite similar motions receiving cross-party support at other councils.

The Canal and River Trust, are warning that a reduction in grant funding of over £300 million in real terms from 2027 will threaten the future of our canals. The funding cut will nearly halve the value of public funding compared with recent years. 

Dr David Nicholl, Councillor for Avoncroft ward and Lib Dem Parliamentary candidate for Bromsgrove presented the motion to Bromsgrove District Council, which called on the Council to support the Leader in writing to the Environment Secretary to oppose the funding cuts.

Dr Nicholl commented “It is sad that the Conservatives voted against this motion and Labour abstained when the campaign to Keep Canals Alive has had support from across the political spectrum in other Councils such as Bedfordshire. Canals are not immune to the effects of climate change and a reduction in funding for the Canal and River Trust could threaten the future of our canals, such as the Tardebigge locks - the longest continuous flight of locks in the UK”.

Councillor Samuel Evans, who represents Slideslow ward added: "Our canals play a wide role, providing benefits to both physical and mental health, whilst also providing a green future with walking and cycling routes. At a time when our water supply has never been more critical, because of changing climate and an increased risk of drought, canals improve the resilience of our nation's water supply. The Liberal Democrats will continue to oppose cuts to the Canal and River Trust even if Labour and the Conservatives won't."