The stretch of canal on the Crumlin Arm between Pontymason Lane in Risca and the Fourteen Locks in Rogerstone has a few areas of low water levels, and some of it is completely empty. Water levels are also low on the Main Line between Brecon and Newport which goes through Cwmbran. This had led to concerns for the wildlife, with ducks, ducklings and moorhens wading through the mud. Many people have reported this to the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Trust and to the local councils. A statement on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal Trust’s website dated Saturday, May 1 said: “The severe water shortage on both the Main Line and Crumlin Arm on the Mon & Brec canal in Torfaen County Borough Council and Newport City Council areas, has been reported by many concerned residents. Our Trust has also been very concerned. As the councils are the owners of the canal within their respective areas, we have spoken to officers at each council regarding the issue and discussed what remed
Canals Trust says severe water shortage in Newport canal caused by number of factors
Residents have raised concerns after parts of the canal appeared almost empty in recent weeks
12:17, 4 MAY 2021
Updated
The trust has explained why the water levels have dropped so drastically (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne)
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The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, near Mamhilad. Picture: Sally Mothersole, South Wales Argus Camera Club A £110 million full restoration of the Torfaen section of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is among the options set to be considered by county borough councillors, as a vision for the waterway s future development is outlined. Torfaen council is looking to develop a strategic vision for the cana,l amid concerns from residents that the authority is “not maintaining nor improving the canal in a way that meets expectations”. Councillors and residents will be asked for their views on the future development of the section of canal under Torfaen council’s ownership, which runs from Elm Grove in Griffithstown, to the county borough boundary with Newport City Council.
A report coming before councillors at a meeting on Thursday has drawn up five options which could shape future plans for the canal. These include improving community partnerships and co-ordination, by increasing the council’s work with community run projects around the canal. Drawing up plans to restore the southern section of the canal, or full restoration of the southern and northern sections – which is estimated to cost £110 million – will also be considered. Previous work has recognised the economic, social and environmental benefits which could result from full restoration. A report says it was recognised this could present “a major strategic opportunity for south east Wales and the Cardiff Capital Region with the potential to act as an exemplar for sustainable development delivering economic, social and environmental benefits”.