British Waterways became the Canal & River Trust on 12 July 2012. Its formation saw the largest ever transfer of public assets into the charitable sector and was the start of the next exciting phase in the 250-year story of the canal network.
The Trust is responsible for protecting, preserving and promoting 2,000 miles of canals and rivers across England and Wales – a network which now has more boats than ever before and is used by more people than at any time in its history. It brings vital green and blue space to the doorstep of millions of people in towns and cities where access to outdoor space is vital for improving community wellbeing and to tackle health inequalities.
Over the past decade the Trust has broadened its reach, engaging more deprived communities living along waterways in urban areas, making waterways inclusive and available for all. It is also ensuring the network has an important role in tackling the nation’s biodiversity crisis as well as helping society mitigate the effects of a changing climate.
They have produced an excellent video celebrating their first 10 years as a charity.
