IWA has welcomed last night’s announcement by the Welsh Government of a financial settlement to resolve the water abstraction crisis that has threatened the future of the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal. The Welsh Government will provide cover for up to £400,000 every year, for the next five years. The Canal & River Trust (CRT) will also contribute up to £100,000 annually. The funding will support a vital water supply agreement.
IWA has been at the forefront of the campaign as a key member of the Preserve & Protect the Mon & Brec Canal (PPMB) coalition. IWA representatives helped organise the Senedd Rally on 9th July 2025, which preceded the Senedd Petitions Committee debate that saw overwhelming cross-party support for action. Following the rally and debate, the Welsh Government announced the creation of the Task & Finish Group on 17th July 2025.
The agreement, announced by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary Huw Irranca-Davies, follows months of intensive campaigning, and negotiation between the Canal & River Trust (CRT), local authorities, and the Welsh Government through the specially convened Task & Finish Group.
The water abstraction crisis has seen CRT spend nearly £1 million this year alone purchasing water from Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, with costs reaching up to £40,000 per week at peak times. This expenditure has diverted vital funds away from essential maintenance and dredging work on the canal.
Paul Thomas, Secretary of IWA South West and South Wales Region, said:
“This announcement is a major victory for everyone who has fought to preserve this historic waterway. The Mon & Brec Canal is not just a navigation route, it’s a vital part of our heritage, a significant economic asset for the region, and a much-loved recreational resource for thousands of people. We are delighted that the Welsh Government has recognised its importance and taken steps to secure its future.”
The Task & Finish Group, which includes representatives from Welsh Government, CRT, Natural Resources Wales, Dŵr Cymru, and local councils, finally convened on 17th November after delays. The announcement follows intensive behind-the-scenes negotiations between all parties.
Paul Thomas added:
“This shows what can be achieved when organisations work together with a common purpose. I want to pay tribute to all our partners in PPMB, the Commercial Operators Group, Brecon Beacons Tourism, the Bridge 46 to Five Locks Canal Group, and the many individual campaigners who have given their time and energy to this cause.”
IWA particularly acknowledges the crucial role played by members of the public, who signed the Senedd Petition in their thousands and contacted their local MSs and MPs to demand action. The support of Cllr Jan Butler, other local Councillors, MSs and MPs across party lines has been instrumental in keeping pressure on decision-makers.
Mr Thomas concluded: “We await the full details of the agreement. CRT will now be able to focus its resources on maintaining and improving the canal rather than simply keeping water in it. However, our work doesn’t end here – we will continue to monitor the situation closely to make sure this agreement delivers real, lasting benefits for the Mon & Brec Canal and all who use and love it.”
