UPDATE: The Canal and River Trust has launched an urgent fundraising campaign to cover the extensive repairs required after a catastrophic canal embankment failure in Whitchurch. This collapse, which occurred on December 21, 2022, has left local boaters displaced and repairs are expected to cost several million pounds.
Engineers successfully removed all three boats affected by the incident, but attention now shifts to investigating the cause of this significant breach on the Llangollen Canal. The Trust’s dedicated fundraising webpage states: “The repairs needed will take much of this year and will cost several million pounds.”
In a statement, Julie Sharman, Chief Operating Officer of the Canal and River Trust, confirmed that investigations are underway, but the exact cause of such earth embankment failures can be complex and unclear. “This rare but catastrophic breach will cost our charity several million to restore the historic infrastructure and public access to the towpath,” Sharman emphasized.
The immediate aftermath of the breach saw two boats end up at the bottom of the collapse, while a third, named “Pacemaker,” was precariously balanced on the edge. To mitigate further damage, engineers implemented emergency measures to refloat the stranded vessels. “We managed to move Pacemaker forward to ensure it didn’t fall away,” Sharman remarked.
With the Llangollen Canal moving approximately 30 million liters of water daily to supply drinking water to residents in Hurleston, Cheshire, the Trust also installed overpumping to stabilize the situation. Thanks to these efforts, several boats were successfully refloated just before Christmas, providing relief to the affected boaters.
Sharman highlighted the emotional toll of the incident, stating, “This has impacted three boaters severely, displacing them from their homes before Christmas.” The Trust has been actively supporting these individuals, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance during this challenging time.
The Trust’s appeal underscores the urgent need for public donations to restore the canal, which has been a vital part of the community for over 200 years. “Without your donations, we wouldn’t be able to continue our work to maintain and protect our canals,” the fundraising page emphasizes.
As the investigation continues, the Canal and River Trust is calling on the community to contribute to the emergency appeal. The repairs are not only critical for restoring boating access but also essential for preserving an important piece of the region’s heritage.
For those interested in supporting this vital work, donations can be made on the Canal and River Trust’s dedicated webpage. Every contribution will help ensure the future of the canals for generations to come.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops and find out how you can help restore the Whitchurch section of the Llangollen Canal.
