14/08/2026
NOW OR NEVER FOR OUR CANAL: OUR URGENT FIGHTING FUND IS LIVE
We have launched a public campaign and Fighting Fund to protect the future of the Wilts & Berks Canal where its historic route would be affected by Thames Water’s proposed White Horse Reservoir.
We are not opposing the reservoir. Our position is clear: if it goes ahead, a fully functioning replacement canal—including the necessary locks and associated structures—must be designed, funded and constructed as an integral part of the reservoir project.
We cannot allow the restoration of our historic canal to be prevented or essential infrastructure to be postponed until some uncertain date after the reservoir has been completed.
This is a once-in-a-generation infrastructure project. With proper planning, the reservoir and a restored canal can coexist, delivering lasting benefits for local communities, wildlife, recreation, tourism and the wider economy.
Restoring the canal between the Great Western Railway and the River Thames would create an important community asset, providing new opportunities for walking, cycling, boating, wildlife conservation, heritage, tourism and recreation. Previous assessments have identified potential economic, health and wellbeing benefits worth approximately £27.5 million every year.
Existing planning policies are intended to safeguard the canal and prevent development from prejudicing its restoration. We are calling on Thames Water and the relevant authorities to honour those protections by incorporating the replacement canal into the reservoir’s design and construction programme from the outset.
Our Fighting Fund will help us obtain professional and technical advice, campaign effectively and represent the canal’s interests throughout the reservoir planning and development process.
Now is the time to stand together and ensure that our canal is rebuilt for the future—not lost beneath the reservoir.
Learn more about what is at stake:
https://wbct.org.uk/protect-the-canal/
Take action and support our Fighting Fund:
https://wbct.org.uk/white-horse-action/
Every donation, large or small, will help us make the strongest possible case for the future of the Wilts & Berks Canal.
Please donate if you can—and help us spread the word by sharing this post.
